Linux on Modern PCs: 5 Powerful Distros You Should Try ⚡🖥️
Linux often gets the reputation of being the operating system for older, underpowered hardware, but did you know it can also maximize your high-end PCs and laptops? Here are five Linux distributions designed to take full advantage of modern hardware and deliver exceptional performance.
The Linux world is filled with hundreds, even thousands of distributions. This variety is ideal because there are operating systems designed for different users and needs. However, this can cause a lot of confusion when choosing. Luckily, here I'll help you with the best distro options optimized for current hardware, which might not perform well on older or less powerful machines.
1. Ubuntu Studio
Ubuntu Studio is an official Ubuntu variant designed for creative professionals. Based on the solid Ubuntu foundation, it incorporates tweaks and optimizations to improve audio, video, and graphic design workflows, making the creative experience smoother and more efficient.
Additionally, Ubuntu Studio changes the usual Ubuntu look with a Windows XP-style layout, but with the taskbar at the top. It maintains a Start menu that categorizes your creative applications for easy access. It uses the KDE Plasma desktop, which offers multiple customization options so you can tailor your creative space to your style.
Advantages of Ubuntu Studio for high-end systems
- Includes pre-configured creative applications for audio, video, and graphics, saving you time on installation.
- They feature a low-latency kernel that improves real-time processing.
- Specialized tools like Ubuntu Studio Audio Configuration offer graphical interfaces for adjusting advanced settings without complications.
Considerations before choosing Ubuntu Studio
- If you don't use full-featured creative software, it can feel cumbersome or redundant.
- It's not optimized for gaming; its focus is on content creation.
- It lacks support for many closed applications such as those from Adobe.
Ideal for |
|
---|---|
Minimum requirements |
|
Discharge | Download Ubuntu Studio |

2. Pop!_OS
Pop!_OS It's also based on Ubuntu, but it's not an official version. It was developed by System76, a hardware manufacturer that offers cutting-edge laptops, desktops, and servers, designed to take full advantage of the potential of these devices.
While you don't need to purchase System76 hardware to use it, its ISO includes pre-installed proprietary NVIDIA drivers, which are recommended if your PC has an NVIDIA GPU. In my experience, Pop!_OS is one of the best Linux systems for NVIDIA GPUs, running smoothly.
Advantages of Pop!_OS for modern hardware
- Pre-installed Vulkan drivers and libraries for better graphics performance.
- Battery saving or high performance mode to adjust as needed.
- Ideal if you purchase System76 equipment, fully optimized for them.
Why Pop!_OS May Not Be For You
- Its updates come later than Ubuntu's, as it is based on the three-year-old 22.04 LTS version.
- The custom GNOME experience can be disconcerting if you're coming from Windows or new to Linux.
Ideal for |
|
---|---|
Minimum requirements |
|
Discharge | Download Pop!_OS |
3. Garuda Linux
Garuda Linux It's an Arch-based rolling release distribution aimed at advanced users who want a unique, attractive, and fluid desktop. It offers several graphical environments, but its Mokka and Dragonized versions reinvent KDE Plasma with stunning animations and visual effects.
Its strong point is Garuda Rani, a visual system maintenance application that allows you to manage the distro without using a terminal. Additionally, being Arch, you have access to the Arch User Repository (AUR) with thousands of apps. You can also use the Arch packages Chaotic-AUR, maintained by Garuda to extend additional software.
Advantages of Garuda Linux for powerful hardware
- Includes optimizations like the Zen kernel and zRAM for maximum hardware utilization and agile performance.
- Its Gaming Edition brings specific tools and optimizations for games on Linux.
- Proprietary NVIDIA drivers included, ensuring robust support from the first boot.
- Striking and responsive visual interface that is logical only on modern systems.
Why Garuda Linux Might Not Be Your Choice
- Its bold design may be too flashy for some.
- For those new to Linux, frequent administration can be technical and challenging.
- Being a rolling release, it requires constant updates, at least every two weeks, for stability.

4. Nobara
Nobara It's the ultimate choice for those who want a perfect gaming experience on Linux. It's based on Fedora, a stable and advanced operating system, but this project adds support for essential proprietary drivers and tools for gaming and multimedia, without the need for tedious manual configuration.
With Nobara, you just install and you're ready to play or create content, even for devices like Steam Deck and home theater PCs. It's one of the most comprehensive Linux distributions for console and gaming users.
Why Nobara excels on modern PCs
- Includes a custom kernel with patches for improved hardware support.
- Improves support for fractional scaling and variable refresh rates.
- Immediate support for proprietary NVIDIA drivers.
Limitations of Nobara
- It's focused on gaming and creation, not office productivity or scientific research.
- As an unofficial project based on Fedora, it receives updates with a delay of approximately one month.
Ideal for |
|
---|---|
Minimum requirements (Same as Fedora) |
|
Discharge | Download Nobara |
5. CachyOS
CachyOS It's another Arch-based rolling release that focuses on optimizations for modern hardware. It's like Manjaro, but with more power and features, while maintaining ease of use with graphical tools to minimize terminal usage.
CachyOS supports all popular graphical environments and performance-optimized file systems. It also has a special ISO for handheld laptops. Like Arch, it offers access to the AUR and constant updates to keep the experience fresh and fast.
Benefits of CachyOS for next-generation PCs
- Advanced optimization with techniques like LTO and BOLT for increased speed.
- Packages optimized for modern x86-64-v3, v4 and Zen4 processors.
- Improve multitasking with a custom scheduler that stays responsive even with multiple apps open.
Why CachyOS May Not Be Right for You
- As it is a rolling release, it requires regular updates (weekly or biweekly) for stability.
- Not recommended for Linux beginners without experience in maintenance and troubleshooting.
Ideal for |
|
---|---|
Minimum requirements |
|
Discharge | Download CachyOS |

Which distro should I choose? 🤔
The best distribution for your latest-generation PC or laptop depends on your needs. If your focus is on content creation, Ubuntu Studio is ideal. For gaming, Nobara is the best option.
If you're looking for a general-purpose distro for work and play, Pop!_OS is stable, reliable, and low-maintenance. For enthusiasts who prefer cutting-edge software and aren't afraid of regular maintenance, CachyOS will be your favorite.
Ultimately, Garuda Linux is my daily choice. Its performance is comparable to CachyOS, but with a different approach. Plus, its powerful Garuda Rani system manager and distinctive visual style are hard to match.
How to get started 🚀
Now that you know which distros run best on modern PCs and laptops, it's time to choose the one that's right for you. I recommend trying the distro first to get a feel for its user experience. You can use VirtualBox for this, although performance will be limited because these distributions are designed to run directly on real hardware.
Ready to discover the power of Linux on your modern hardware? Choose your distro, install it, and enjoy a fast, secure, and optimized operating system. Dare to supercharge your PC with these incredible distributions! 💻🔥