PCLinuxOS vs Solus
PCLinuxOS: A long-running independent rolling desktop. Solus: An independent desktop with a curated rolling model. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- GamingSolusSolus ships gaming-oriented defaults or current drivers.
- 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 | PCLinuxOS | Solus |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #44 | #43 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Independent (Mandriva heritage) | Independent |
| Release model | Rolling | Rolling |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, MATE, Xfce | Budgie, KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce |
| Package management | APT-RPM · Synaptic | eopkg · Flatpak |
| Init system | sysVinit | systemd |
| Experience level | Beginner | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2003 | 2015 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Everyday use | Everyday use, Gaming |
Key differences
- PCLinuxOS is based on Independent (Mandriva heritage), while Solus is based on Independent.
- PCLinuxOS ships KDE Plasma, MATE, Xfce; Solus ships Budgie, KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce.
- Software comes from APT-RPM · Synaptic on PCLinuxOS and eopkg · Flatpak on Solus.
- PCLinuxOS uses sysVinit as its init system; Solus uses systemd.
Choose PCLinuxOS if…
- rolling without reinstalling
- graphical package management
- systemd-free
64-bit only; small package team
Full PCLinuxOS profileChoose Solus if…
- weekly, curated rolling updates
- desktop-focused package selection
- independent base with its own tooling
Smaller repository than major distributions
Full Solus profilePCLinuxOS vs Solus: FAQ
Is PCLinuxOS better than Solus?
Neither is better for everyone. PCLinuxOS is the stronger pick for a different set of needs; Solus for gaming.
Which uses less RAM, PCLinuxOS or Solus?
Both need about 4 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop. The desktop environment affects memory use more than the distribution.
Is PCLinuxOS based on Solus?
No. PCLinuxOS is based on Independent (Mandriva heritage); Solus is based on Independent.
Can I switch from PCLinuxOS 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.