What is Garuda Linux? Who it is for
Garuda Linux is built on Arch. It uses KDE Plasma as its desktop and pacman for software, and it follows a rolling release, so updates arrive continuously with no big version jumps.
Garuda Linux at a glance
- Foundation: built on Arch
- Desktop: KDE Plasma
- Software tools: pacman
- Release style: a rolling release, so updates arrive continuously with no big version jumps
- Installer: the Calamares installer
Who Garuda Linux suits
Garuda Linux suits people with a capable computer who want a polished, gaming-friendly Arch-based desktop.
Strengths
- Software stays close to the newest versions without waiting for a new release.
- Sensible defaults for Steam, Proton and current graphics drivers.
- The KDE Plasma desktop, with a great deal of customisation built in.
Things to consider
- Updates never stop arriving, so update often and keep a backup in case an update needs fixing.
- Newer hardware can need extra driver steps, so check your graphics card before you commit.
- It is meant for a capable computer, so plan on at least 8 GB of RAM.
Try Garuda Linux from a USB drive
The easiest way to find out is to start it from a USB drive without changing your computer. See the Garuda Linux bootable USB drive, then follow our install guide when you are ready. New to this? Read how to try Linux without installing it and how to boot from a USB drive.
Compare Garuda Linux
- Arch Linux vs Garuda Linux
- Manjaro vs Garuda Linux
- EndeavourOS vs Garuda Linux
- CachyOS vs Garuda Linux
- Nobara vs Garuda Linux
- Garuda Linux vs Pop!_OS
Installing software on Garuda Linux
Garuda Linux uses pacman. These commands search for a program and install it (replace name with the program):
pacman -Ss name sudo pacman -S name
Most desktop systems also have a graphical software store. See how to install software on Linux.
Frequently asked questions
Is Garuda Linux good for beginners?
It can be used by beginners, but Garuda Linux is aimed more at people with a capable computer who want a polished, gaming-friendly Arch-based desktop. If you are brand new, a beginner-friendly distribution such as Linux Mint or Ubuntu is usually an easier first step.
What desktop does Garuda Linux use?
Garuda Linux uses KDE Plasma. To learn how desktops differ, read what GNOME, KDE, Xfce and Cinnamon are.
How much RAM does Garuda Linux need?
It is meant for a capable computer, so plan on at least 8 GB of RAM.
Is Garuda Linux based on another distribution?
Garuda Linux is built on Arch.
How often is Garuda Linux updated?
Garuda Linux follows a rolling release, so updates arrive continuously with no big version jumps.
How can I try Garuda Linux without installing it?
Write it to a USB drive, restart, choose the drive from the boot menu and pick the live or try option. Nothing on your internal disk changes unless you choose to install.