What is Solus? Who it is for
Solus is built independently rather than on another distribution. It uses Budgie, with GNOME, KDE and Xfce editions as its desktop and eopkg for software, and it follows a curated model where updates are released in tested batches.
Solus at a glance
- Foundation: built independently rather than on another distribution
- Desktop: Budgie, with GNOME, KDE and Xfce editions
- Software tools: eopkg
- Release style: a curated model where updates are released in tested batches
- Installer: the Solus installer
Who Solus suits
Solus suits people who want a clean, curated desktop built from scratch rather than on another distribution.
Strengths
- A gentle learning curve, with everyday tasks handled through graphical tools.
Things to consider
- As a rough guide, about 4 GB of RAM is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Try Solus from a USB drive
The easiest way to find out is to start it from a USB drive without changing your computer. See the Solus 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.
Installing software on Solus
Solus uses eopkg. These commands search for a program and install it (replace name with the program):
eopkg search name sudo eopkg install name
Most desktop systems also have a graphical software store. See how to install software on Linux.
Frequently asked questions
Is Solus good for beginners?
Yes. Solus is one of the more beginner-friendly choices.
What desktop does Solus use?
Solus uses Budgie, with GNOME, KDE and Xfce editions. To learn how desktops differ, read what GNOME, KDE, Xfce and Cinnamon are.
How much RAM does Solus need?
As a rough guide, about 4 GB of RAM is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Is Solus based on another distribution?
Solus is built independently rather than on another distribution.
How often is Solus updated?
Solus follows a curated model where updates are released in tested batches.
How can I try Solus 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.