A new Arch Linux distribution takes a different approach to open source productivity. Here are some reasons why you should try Garuda Linux.

  

Garuda Linux

There are many reasons to enjoy the Linux operating system, and while it may not appear to be as user-friendly as Windows or macOS, it is feature-rich.

Unfortunately, many users are put off by the fact that most Linux versions lack the familiar interface found on macOS and Windows computers, as well as a steep learning curve.

Garuda Linux aims to address this issue and make Linux more accessible to the general public.

What Is Garuda Linux?

Garuda Linux is a new Linux distribution that is based on the Arch Linux operating system. For established and new Linux users, it strives to deliver exceptional performance and contemporary, appealing features.

Despite being built on Arch Linux, the Calamares graphical installer is included for convenience of use. It also includes a variety of desktop environments, such as KDE Plasma, Gnome, XFCE, and others.

Garuda Linux also has a rolling release model with frequent upgrades and a large software package library.

Garuda Linux Flavors

Although Garuda Linux is a new distribution, it comes in a variety of variants for your favorite desktop environment. GNOME, KDE Plasma, XFCE, LXQt-KWin, Wayfire, i3wm, Qtile, BSPWM, and Sway are some Garuda Linux variants.

It also includes the Dr460nizeD version of KDE Plasma, which is a modified version of KDE Plasma with a dark, fuzzy interface designed for contemporary desktops. It attempts to replicate the title bar and navigation menu of Mac OS X.

Apart from having a variety of flavors, Garuda Linux has eleven additional features that have helped it become one of the most popular Linux distributions in 2021.

1. Easy-to-Use Calamares Installer

    

GARUDA uses micro as its primary terminal-based text editor, which attempts to be simple and intuitive while taking advantage of contemporary terminal features.
To make your startup simpler, Garuda Linux comes with a variety of GUI tools for controlling system settings right out of the box.
Despite the fact that Garuda Linux is an Arch-based distribution, it uses the Calamares installer, which simplifies and speeds up the installation process for Arch-based distributions.
It just takes a few steps to install Garuda Linux with Calamares.

2. Awesome User Experience

After installing Garuda Linux, you'll see a welcome screen with a kind and simple message welcoming you to Garuda Linux. You may also use the setup assistant to configure your system for the first time from this screen.
Garuda Linux has a robust user interface with recognizable menus and icons. As a consequence, getting to know Garuda Linux is simple.
Depending on the Garuda Linux flavor you choose, you'll get pre-installed programs including Firefox, VLC media player, a terminal, GIMP, Steam, Timeshift Backup tool, and Software Market.
Garuda and Garuda are the default username and password, respectively.

3. Easy Software Installation

Garuda Linux makes installing software packages as simple as possible. The Pacman installer is used, as well as a selection of software packages from the default repositories.
The Pamac installer from Manjaro Linux is also imported into Garuda Linux, allowing you to install software packages without having to use the terminal.
Garuda Linux also has Snap and Flatpack support, as well as the Arch User Repository, which is activated by default.

4. Recovery Options

Garuda Linux updates software packages on a daily basis as part of a rolling release. Unfortunately, performing such upgrades may cause your machine to malfunction, rendering it unusable.

To combat this, Garuda Linux has a built-in Timeshift backup program that allows you to take system snapshots. Furthermore, Garuda provides direct access to system snapshots through GRUB, which might be quite useful in instances where the system fails to start up.

5. Better/Enhanced Filesystem

The B-Tree filesystem (BTRFS) is the default in Garuda Linux. Checksums, pooling, and snapshots are only a few of the constraints addressed by BTRFS. It also makes administration, fault tolerance, and repairs simple.

Btrfs also allows Garuda Linux to do self-healing by detecting and repairing damaged data using checksums and metadata. As a result, Garuda Linux's support for BTRFS is a significant plus.

6. Gaming Tools

Garuda Linux offers a Gaming edition, which is a KDE version of Garuda Linux that has been optimized for gamers. This Gaming version includes all of the software that a gamer might require. Steam, Gamehub, Boxtron, WINE, Proton GE custom, Gamemode, vkBasalt, itch, Lutris, Minigalaxy, Heroic Game Launcher, Oversteer, and SteamTinterLaunch are among the pre-installed gaming applications in Garuda Linux's gaming edition.

OpenRGB, KeyboardVisualizer, DisplayCAL, NoiseTorch, Discord, Mumble, Piper, and CoreCtrl are among the gaming tools included.

7. Garuda Assistant

Garuda's popularity stems from the fact that it has a simple graphical application for administering the system and conducting administrative chores. Users may manage repositories, clean logs, back up the system, control the filesystem, and manage systemd processes using the Garuda Linux software, for example, with just a few clicks.

8. Settings Manager

Garuda Linux's settings manager lets Manjaro users feel at ease. Garuda Linux also has a graphical application for controlling the system, which includes installing a new kernel version and managing drivers.

9. An Engaged Community

Garuda Linux has a fantastic community willing to assist fix problems and develop the system, despite its youth. Furthermore, because Garuda Linux is based on Arch Linux, the Arch-Linux and Arch-based distributions communities can assist you with any difficulties you may have while using Garuda Linux.

10. Highly Customizable

Garuda Linux offers a variety of customization options to its users. It lets users change and delete driver versions, install new kernels, and fully customize their desktop environments. Garuda Linux also includes the BleachIt application, which may help you clean up your machine and eliminate any bloatware.

Additionally, Garuda Linux has a barebones version that includes only the bare minimal software packages and functionality. As a result, Garuda Linux barebones is ideal for those who want complete customization flexibility.

11. Always Free

Garuda Linux will always be open source and free. Currently, our source code is hosted on GitLab. The source code can be copied, compiled, studied, modified, and redistributed by anybody. We created it to have an easy-to-use and elegant Linux-based operating system.

12. Focus on Performance

Our objective is to create a distribution that is solely focused on performance while still being visually appealing. That's why we made a few (reasonable) performance adjustments.

1. I/O performance has been improved.
2. Set the CPU scheduler to performance - apply power-saving modifications if desired.
3. By default, ZRAM is activated.
4. Nohang, a daemon that prevents OOM.

Is Garuda Linux Better For You?

Garuda Linux is one of the newest Linux distributions, with the goal of bridging the gap and making Linux more accessible to desktop users. You may feel at ease with Garuda Linux as your daily driver thanks to its customization possibilities and software package collection.

Garuda Linux also simplifies the installation of Arch Linux, making it easier and more pleasant for novice Linux users.
Garuda Linux may be the right choice for you if you're searching for a straightforward Linux distribution that gets the job done.