Tom's Hardware evaluates three Linux distributions, finding them outperform Windows during gaming tasks.
Tom's Hardware evaluates three Linux distributions, finding them outperform Windows during gaming tasks.
It’s a great analysis of the piece. If you’re committed to gaming on Linux, Arch is definitely a strong choice. This testing shows comparable 1% drops to Windows while offering better overall averages. You get both stability and speed. There’s no real excuse not to pick Linux as the top option for gaming. Plus, this version is tailored specifically for gaming, which could push performance even higher than standard Arch.
I disagree with there being no reason not to use linux, based on this article. One is because "linux" is a very broad thing and it is specifically Arch that is the winner here, which is a distro that is not known for its beginner friendliness. The average gamer has likely never touched linux nor has any interest in learning it, most likely. They may thus opt for a more user-friendly looking OS, which I see Nobara mention in their description, for example, but then you see from the results that you can no longer make a blanket statement of linux being better, because gaming is not just about high (average) FPS and the interplay between average FPS and 1% lows is important. You want the average and 1% two to be close to each other, identical ideally, or you will experience them as hiccups or stutters. We see the exact opposite happen for the Nobara and Pop. In the Talos Principle II, Nobara OS gets an average of 71.5 FPS with 1% lows of 37.5. That means your framerate regularly fluctuates by 48%, almost a factor of two . Especially dropping from 70 into high 30s is rough in my opinion. On Windows this is 65.1 avg and a 1% low of 46.1; a 30% drop (which is still big, but smaller). For this game (and the others except Starfield) Windows gives you a more stable FPS experience, which you can argue is the better one. Because of that I think your statement of "if you're serious about gaming on Linux" is a much better one than "linux is the better gaming experience" as this article shows that your choice of distro apparently still matters a lot and it is going up against expecations in user experience set by Windows and macOS.
Arch offers intuitive adaptations such as Garuda or CachyOS, just as I mentioned. Any operating system built on Arch provides remarkable customization options, allowing you to install specific kernels like Cahcy or TKG for reduced input delays. I’m confident this piece targets those who prefer not to modify the system—installing a different kernel isn’t really tweaking, but simply adding another program. This makes an Arch-based setup the best choice for gaming performance. If you're open to minimal exploration, the Linux experience can truly shine. Most people rush through Linux without proper experimentation, which is why the issue arises. Just like Linus and his Linux challenge. If you’re not interested in changing, stay the same—but don’t pretend Linux lacks a great gaming feel just because you’re not curious enough. Acknowledge your disinterest and move forward.
How many everyday users are truly interested in that "customizable features" and "install any kernel you like"? How many in your close circle understand what a kernel actually is? Why should it matter? What is Arch Linux? Should I choose Garuda or Cachy? Is it really important for the average person to boost their gaming performance by 10 frames, or do they just want smooth gameplay? We’re discussing advanced topics. Especially when people want to compare which Linux distribution offers the best gaming results. On this forum we’re a small group. Not everyone wants to dig through many operating systems weighing their pros and cons. That doesn’t mean they’re uninterested—it’s just a different perspective. It’s a valid point that some feel overwhelmed by the options. Searching benchmarks across numerous games, GPUs, and CPUs is already common. Deciding carefully which Linux flavor fits your needs, skills, and passions adds extra pressure. Don’t make sweeping claims that Linux always delivers better; the data showing otherwise disproves that. It’s important to recognize that things aren’t simple black or white. Today, many people enjoy Linux, especially with devices like the Steam Deck proving its potential. A similar issue arises when vocal Linux supporters overlook why some users hesitate to switch. I believe they rejected Linus’s challenge because it didn’t promise an effortless experience. They don’t grasp that “just do X, Y, Z” isn’t straightforward for non-experts. Many jump to extremes—Windows is bad, Linux is great—without seeing the full picture. I’ve used Linux professionally for over ten years and it’s worked well. It has improved a lot, but my personal PC remains Windows since the Linux community still lacks fully official releases. This gap highlights a bigger challenge: mainstream software often doesn’t have official Linux versions, which remains a significant drawback.
I see where you're coming from. The idea of searching for "linux" in the App Store seems unusual. You're likely talking about a strong interest or excitement here. The Steam Deck demonstrates that Linux is gaining traction and could shape the future positively. A small improvement in FPS matters to many, and upgrading a GPU for just 5-10% can be worthwhile. Linus's challenge was easily disproven by the Steam Deck. Your choice of operating system depends on your needs—whether you're looking for something new or sticking with what works. Linux remains a solid option for gaming if it meets your requirements.
When I hear the term "optimize for gaming," it brings to mind YouTube channels featuring low-end gamers making unusual tweaks to Windows settings and game configuration files. These adjustments often sacrifice quality to achieve maximum performance, involving trade-offs. Real optimization needs developers to genuinely refine their games and manufacturers to provide solid drivers—not just follow what a particular operating system suggests.
I don't understand the reason. If I want to play Windows games, I'd boot into Windows. For me, Linux gaming means playing Linux games, not just any hack for Linux. That's why I avoid using game emulators for systems like PS2 or Nintendo, even though they work well.
Spatial audio options like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X are becoming more common in games. Many titles now support setups such as 5.2.2, and I personally rely on them. I'm curious about how these features work on Linux systems.