CachyOS vs Solus
CachyOS: An Arch-based system tuned for speed. Solus: An independent desktop with a curated rolling model. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersSolusSolus is rated beginner; CachyOS is intermediate.
- GamingTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Older hardwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Latest softwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Long-term stabilityTieBoth are a similar fit here.
Specs compared
| Feature | CachyOS | Solus |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #4 | #43 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Arch Linux | Independent |
| Release model | Rolling | Rolling |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, Hyprland, niri, more | Budgie, KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce |
| Package management | Pacman · AUR (community) | eopkg · Flatpak |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2021 | 2015 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Gaming, Development, Everyday use | Everyday use, Gaming |
Key differences
- CachyOS is based on Arch Linux, while Solus is based on Independent.
- CachyOS ships KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, Hyprland, niri, more; Solus ships Budgie, KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce.
- Software comes from Pacman · AUR (community) on CachyOS and eopkg · Flatpak on Solus.
- CachyOS is best for intermediate users; Solus 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 Solus if…
- weekly, curated rolling updates
- desktop-focused package selection
- independent base with its own tooling
Smaller repository than major distributions
Full Solus profileCachyOS vs Solus: FAQ
Is CachyOS better than Solus?
Neither is better for everyone. CachyOS is the stronger pick for a different set of needs; Solus for beginners.
Which uses less RAM, CachyOS or Solus?
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 Solus?
No. CachyOS is based on Arch Linux; Solus is based on Independent.
Can I switch from CachyOS to Solus 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.