CachyOS vs Pop!_OS
CachyOS: An Arch-based system tuned for speed. Pop!_OS: A developer-friendly desktop with built-in tiling. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersPop!_OSPop!_OS is rated beginner; CachyOS is intermediate.
- GamingCachyOSCachyOS ships gaming-oriented defaults or current drivers.
- Older hardwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Latest softwareCachyOSCachyOS uses a rolling model; Pop!_OS is stable.
- Long-term stabilityPop!_OSPop!_OS changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | CachyOS | Pop!_OS |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #4 | #13 |
| Latest version | — | 24.04 (Dec 11, 2025) |
| Based on | Arch Linux | Ubuntu LTS |
| Release model | Rolling | Stable |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, Hyprland, niri, more | COSMIC |
| Package management | Pacman · AUR (community) | APT · Flatpak |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2021 | 2017 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Gaming, Development, Everyday use | Development, Gaming, Everyday use |
Key differences
- CachyOS is based on Arch Linux, while Pop!_OS is based on Ubuntu LTS.
- CachyOS follows a rolling release model; Pop!_OS is stable.
- CachyOS ships KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, Hyprland, niri, more; Pop!_OS ships COSMIC.
- Software comes from Pacman · AUR (community) on CachyOS and APT · Flatpak on Pop!_OS.
- CachyOS is best for intermediate users; Pop!_OS for beginner users.
Choose CachyOS if…
- optimized package builds for newer CPUs
- choice of tuned kernels and schedulers
- graphical installer with many desktop options
Optimized repositories need a supported processor
Full CachyOS profileChoose Pop!_OS if…
- nVIDIA image with the proprietary driver preinstalled
- optional auto-tiling built into the desktop
- tested on System76 hardware
COSMIC is young; expect rough edges and missing extensions
Full Pop!_OS profileCachyOS vs Pop!_OS: FAQ
Is CachyOS better than Pop!_OS?
Neither is better for everyone. CachyOS is the stronger pick for gaming, latest software; Pop!_OS for beginners, long-term stability.
Which uses less RAM, CachyOS or Pop!_OS?
Both need about 4 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop. The desktop environment affects memory use more than the distribution.
Is CachyOS based on Pop!_OS?
No. CachyOS is based on Arch Linux; Pop!_OS is based on Ubuntu LTS.
Can I switch from CachyOS to Pop!_OS without losing files?
Back up your home folder first. If /home is on a separate partition you can reinstall without formatting it, but a clean install with restored backups is safest.