Latest LTT video about gaming on Linux
Latest LTT video about gaming on Linux
Hi there! Linus and Anthony covered three Linux distros for gaming in their recent videos—Ubuntu 20.04, Pop OS, and Linux Mint (which is based on 20.04). You're looking to set up a LAN CS:GO session on an older laptop with just 4GB RAM and an i3 processor. Which option would be more efficient? I’m considering starting with Pop OS since it’s mentioned in their video. Let me know your thoughts! TIA
Consider trying Lubuntu or Xubuntu. Ubuntu offers a desktop environment that runs efficiently on fewer system resources.
And also give Kubuntu a shot. KDE was really heavy on memory before, but now it uses less than XFCE (which runs in Xubuntu), even when advanced effects are on. You can turn it off with just Alt+Shift+F12, which frees up RAM for your games.
I attempted Pop OS but faced a failure near the end due to what might be a hardware problem. This could relate to the laptop's age—specifically an i3 processor, 4GB RAM, and Intel graphics. I switched to Kubuntu, encountering difficulties installing it and having to enable Safe Graphics. Spending a full day troubleshooting, I realized the issue was that applications were showing on my main screen, which I later removed because it caused problems. After resolving that, I managed to install Steam and CS:GO, though Steam froze when launching maps. I think the limited RAM—just 4GB—was the cause, even at lowest settings. I’m still exploring Kubuntu’s look and feel, finding it a good fit for someone wanting to transition into Linux. I plan to try it with more RAM next time. Unfortunately, CS:GO didn’t perform well under load, possibly due to insufficient memory. I’m considering upgrading to 8GB to see if that improves stability. Right now, I’m settling for an HTPC to host a small LAN setup for gaming when friends visit. For now, it’s been downgraded to an HTPC to replace my old desktop running another distro (I can’t recall which one).