Gaming on Linux has evolved tremendously over the past few years, making it a serious choice for both casual and hardcore gamers. Gone are the days when Linux meant endless compatibility issues or complicated setups. Today, thanks to tools like Steam Proton, better GPU drivers, and performance-optimized kernels, Linux can deliver smooth, high-quality gaming experiences comparable to Windows. Choosing the right Linux distro for gaming can make all the difference, offering faster load times, improved frame rates, and reliable system stability.

Some distros focus on out-of-the-box gaming, while others let you customize performance for your hardware. Whether you’re exploring indie gems, classic titles, or the latest AAA releases, the perfect distro ensures your games run efficiently without unnecessary hassles. In this guide, we’ll highlight the top Linux distros for gaming, their unique features, and why they’re the best choice for gamers seeking speed, stability, and ultimate performance.

What is a Linux Distros?

A Linux distro, short for Linux distribution, is an operating system built using the Linux kernel along with a collection of software, libraries, system tools, and a desktop environment. While the Linux kernel handles core functions such as hardware interaction and process management, a distro makes the system usable for everyday users by packaging everything together in an organised way.

Different Linux distros are designed for different purposes, such as general desktop use, servers, programming, cybersecurity, or gaming. Popular distros may focus on ease of use, stability, performance, or customisation. Each distro also uses its own package manager and update system. 

This flexibility allows users to choose a Linux distro that best matches their technical skills, hardware configuration, and personal or professional needs, making Linux a highly adaptable and widely used operating system worldwide.

Why Choose Linux for Gaming?

• Open-Source Freedom: Linux offers complete control and transparency, allowing gamers to customise systems, optimise performance, and avoid forced updates or hidden processes affecting gameplay stability.
• Improved Performance: Lightweight Linux distros consume fewer system resources, resulting in better FPS, faster boot times, and smoother gaming performance on both low-end and high-end hardware.
• Growing Game Compatibility: With Steam Proton, Wine, and Lutris, thousands of Windows games now run smoothly on Linux, significantly expanding the gaming library available to Linux users.
• Better System Stability: Linux systems are known for reliability, fewer crashes, and long uptime, ensuring uninterrupted gaming sessions without frequent system reboots or unexpected errors.
• No Licensing Costs: Most Linux distros are completely free, eliminating expensive operating system licenses and allowing gamers to invest more in hardware or games instead.
• Strong Community Support: A large global Linux community provides tutorials, forums, and fixes, making it easier for gamers to solve issues and optimise gaming setups.
• Enhanced Security: Linux offers strong security architecture with fewer malware threats, protecting user data and gaming accounts without heavy antivirus software running in background.
• Wide Hardware Support: Modern Linux distros support a broad range of GPUs, controllers, and peripherals, ensuring compatibility with gaming hardware from major manufacturers.

List of 15 Best Linux Distros for Gaming

1. SteamOS

Website: https://store.steampowered.com/steamos

SteamOS is a Linux distribution created by Valve and is game-oriented. It is based on Debian, and it is created to provide a console-like experience in games, particularly on Steam Decks. SteamOS can be used together with Steam, Proton, and Vulkan and enables users to execute thousands of Windows games without issues. The lightweight desktop environment makes it have the maximum performance and minimum to use background.

It is perfect gaming, with automatic updates, controller support, and Big Picture Mode. Although the customization is not so extensive, as compared to other distros, SteamOS is still one of the best options available to gamers who are interested in stability, performance and easy integration with the Steam ecosystem.

• Minimum System Requirements: 2 GHz dual-core CPU, 4GB RAM, 25GB storage
• Latest Stable Version: SteamOS 3.x

Pros:

• Optimized specifically for gaming
• Seamless Steam and Proton integration
• Console-like UI experience
• Excellent controller support
• Stable performance on supported hardware
• Minimal background processes

Cons:

• Limited desktop flexibility
• Not ideal for non-gaming tasks
• Best suited for Steam ecosystem

2. Pop!_OS

Website: pop.system76.com

Pop!OS is a Ubuntu-based Operating System that is highly powerful and suits gaming, developed by System76. It provides great NVIDIA and AMD graphics card support, with separate NVIDIA driver ISO programs. The distro is based on a clean interface, performance oriented tweaking, and tiling windows management.

Pop!_OS has native support for Steam, Lutris, Proton and Vulkan, and can be configured to play games easily. The update stability and optimisation of its hardware make it suitable to both the amateurs and the professionals in the gaming world. Pop!OS is a balance between productivity and gaming with a small amount of bloat and high performance.

• Minimum System Requirements: 2 GHz dual-core CPU, 4GB RAM, 25GB storage
• Latest Stable Version: 22.04 LTS

Pros:

• Separate NVIDIA ISO with drivers
• Excellent gaming performance
• Clean and modern interface
• Strong hardware optimization
• Built-in tiling window manager
• Beginner-friendly

Cons:

• Limited desktop customization
• Fewer preinstalled gaming tools
• Ubuntu-based update cycle

3. Ubuntu

Website: ubuntu.com

One of the most popular Linux Distros for Gaming and a sure bet when it comes to gaming is Ubuntu. It is supported by Canonical and has a huge compatibility with hardware, frequent updates, and an enormous software ecosystem. Ubuntu is native and windows compatibility Ubuntu supports Steam, Lutris, Wine, and Proton, allowing both native and windows games to be played smoothly.

Its long-term support (LTS) editions are stable, whereas recent editions include updated drivers. The user-friendly interface and the excellent community response that Ubuntu offers makes it an excellent choice among novice Linux gamers and those who would like to be sure that they are using a reliable platform without compromising on performance.

• Minimum System Requirements: 2 GHz dual-core CPU, 4GB RAM, 25GB storage
• Latest Stable Version: 24.04 LTS

Pros:

• Large community support
• Excellent hardware compatibility
• Stable LTS releases
• Easy Steam and Proton setup
• Beginner-friendly
• Wide software availability

Cons:

• Slightly heavier system usage
• Snap packages not liked by all
• Gaming optimizations need tweaking

4. Linux Mint

Website: linuxmint.com

Linux Mint is a simple Linux operating system that is also grounded on Ubuntu, which is why it can be recommended to gamers who want something easy. It is characterized by a light desktop environment, which uses less system resources hence enhancing gaming performance. 

Linux Mint is compatible with Steam, Proton, Wine, and Lutris, which means it can make a significant variety of games available. Its user-friendly interface attracts Windows users who switch to Linux. Although it does not necessarily contain the most recent drivers, Mint, with its stability, simplicity, and light weight of the system, is a reliable gaming distro.

• Minimum System Requirements: 2 GHz dual-core CPU, 4GB RAM, 25GB storage
• Latest Stable Version: 21.x

Pros:

• Lightweight and fast
• Very beginner-friendly
• Stable Ubuntu base
• Minimal background usage
• Familiar Windows-like UI
• Good performance on older PCs

Cons:

• Older drivers by default
• Less gaming-focused
• Manual setup for some tools

5. Manjaro

Website: manjaro.org

Manjaro is a Linux distribution (arch based) that is characterized by balancing between performance and accessibility. It provides rolling updates so that gamers are always up to date when it comes to the latest drivers, kernels, and gaming tools. Manjaro is compatible with Steam, Lutris, Proton and Vulkan with minimum configuration.

The Arch-based software is user-friendly, though its hardware recognition features automatically install graphics drivers, making it user friendly. Having several desktop environments and high performance optimization, Manjaro is a perfect option among gamers who desire to have cutting-edge features without having to deep dive into complex manual setup.

• Minimum System Requirements: 2 GHz dual-core CPU, 4GB RAM, 25GB storage
• Latest Stable Version: Rolling Release

Pros:

• Rolling release updates
• Latest drivers and kernels
• Easy Arch-based installation
• Strong gaming performance
• Automatic driver detection
• Highly customisable 

Cons:

• Occasional update instability
• Not ideal for beginners
• Requires maintenance awareness

6. Garuda Linux

Website: garudalinux.org

Garuda Linux is one of the top Linux Distros for Gaming and is an Arch-based distribution that is gaming focused, performance focused, and appearance focused. It is based on a Zen kernel, which is low latency and responsive. The Garuda operating system includes gaming applications such as Steam, Lutris, Wine, and GameMode as default. It has a Btrfs filesystem which has snapshot features that provide system stability and recovery.

Garuda is designed for modern hardware and offers high FPS and smooth gameplay. Garuda Linux is the ideal operating system for gamers who want to experience high performance, attractive looks, and complete performance-tuning capabilities, even though it can be a significant resource drain on older systems.

• Minimum System Requirements: 2 GHz dual-core CPU, 4GB RAM, 25GB storage
• Latest Stable Version: Rolling Release

Pros:

• Gaming-optimized Zen kernel
• Preinstalled gaming tools
• High FPS performance
• Btrfs snapshot recovery
• Modern UI design
• Arch-based flexibility

Cons:

• High resource usage
• Not suitable for old systems
• Overwhelming for beginners

7. Fedora Games Spin

Website: spins.fedoraproject.org

Fedora Games Spin is a Fedora variant designed specifically to be used in games. It also has a vast variety of open-source and proprietary games that are offered as pre-installs as well as support for Steam and Wine. Fedora offers advanced programs, kernels, and drivers so that it is compatible with contemporary hardware.

The distro is more focused on security and performance and does not lose stability. Fedora Games Spin is the best choice when gamers need to use the open-source ecosystem and get access to the newest technologies at first. Nonetheless, it can be configured manually sometimes, when it comes to proprietary drivers.

• Minimum System Requirements: 2 GHz dual-core CPU, 4GB RAM, 25GB storage
• Latest Stable Version: Fedora 40

Pros:

• Cutting-edge kernel updates
• Open-source gaming focus
• Preinstalled games
• Strong security features
• Modern hardware support
• Stable Fedora ecosystem

Cons:

• Short support lifecycle
• Proprietary drivers need setup
• Less beginner-friendly

8. EndeavourOS

Website: endeavourOS.com

EndeavourOS is a light distribution based on Arch built to meet the requirements of users who desire simplicity without power losses. It provides near-vanilla Arch experience with less challenging installation and configuration. EndeavourOS is compatible with the most recent kernels and drivers, as well as game tools such as Steam and Proton.

It has a very simple design which lowers the system overhead enhancing gaming performance. It is not the easiest Linux system to use, but EndeavourOS is the ideal OS to use when a gamer needs complete control, maximum performance, and entry to the immense software database of Arch.

• Minimum System Requirements: 2 GHz dual-core CPU, 4GB RAM, 25GB storage
• Latest Stable Version: Rolling Release

Pros:

• Lightweight Arch experience
• Minimal system overhead
• Fast performance
• Easy Arch installation
• Access to AUR
• High customization

Cons:

• Requires Linux knowledge
• Manual configuration needed
• No long-term support releases

9. Arch Linux

Website: archlinux.org

Arch Linux is one of the powerful Linux Distros for Gaming and is a very adaptable distribution popular among sophisticated gamers. It uses a rolling release system, which offers the most current drivers, kernels, and gaming technologies. Arch is the best in performance because it has the minimum base system, allowing the user to install only what is necessary.

Steam, Proton, and Vulkan are all known to be highly compatible on Arch. Nevertheless, it has to be installed and maintained manually. Arch Linux is the type of operating system that will suit highly experienced users and provide them with the maximum level of control and gaming performance.

• Minimum System Requirements: 2 GHz dual-core CPU, 4GB RAM, 25GB storage
• Latest Stable Version: Rolling Release

Pros:

• Maximum performance control
• Latest gaming technologies
• Minimal base system
• Rolling updates
• Excellent Proton support
• Highly customisable 

Cons:

• Manual installation required
• Steep learning curve
• Maintenance intensive

10. Kubuntu

Website: kubuntu.org

Kubuntu is a Ubuntu-based operating system that uses the KDE Plasma desktop environment. It is proffered with a contemporary interface, fluid animations, and great customisation features. Kubuntu allows gaming to be set up through Steam, Lutris, Proton and Wine. Gaming experiences are improved with optimization of performance and resource consumption by KDE. 

Kubuntu is a blend of Ubuntu and KDE where the former is more stable whereas the latter is more attractive to the visual effect, which makes Kubuntu ideal among players who want to be on the winning side and at the same time enjoy the appearance. It is very reliable with good community help and frequent updates.

• Minimum System Requirements: 2 GHz dual-core CPU, 4GB RAM, 25GB storage
• Latest Stable Version: 24.04 LTS

Pros:

• KDE Plasma customization
• Smooth gaming UI
• Ubuntu stability
• Good hardware compatibility
• Visually appealing
• Low input latency

Cons:

• KDE may feel heavy
• Needs performance tuning

11. Zorin OS

Website: zorin.com/os

Zorin OS is one of the beginner-friendly Linux Distros for Gaming as it is designed to attract users who are used to Windows. Depending on Ubuntu, it can support Steam, Proton, Wine, and Lutris. Zorin OS features a refined user interface, high compatibility with hardware, and optimizations.

This is due to its lightweight design that allows it to be used on any mid-range system where gaming is smooth and effortless. Although there is not much customization available, Zorin OS is a powerful distro in terms of ease of use, stability, and clean design, making it an excellent introduction for beginner gamers to the world of gaming distros.

• Minimum System Requirements: 2 GHz dual-core CPU, 4GB RAM, 25GB storage
• Latest Stable Version: Zorin OS 17

Pros:

• Excellent for Windows users
• Clean and polished UI
• Stable Ubuntu base
• Good performance
• Easy gaming setup
• Minimal learning curve

Cons:

• Limited advanced features
• Customisation restrictions
• Not hardcore gaming-focused

12. MX Linux

Website: mxlinux.org

MX Linux is a debian based and lightweight distribution with a reputation of being stable and fast. It uses very few system resources, and therefore is the best to play games with older or low-end hardware. 

MX Linux has support for Steam, Wine, and Proton on a manual basis. Although it is not a mandatory part of the latest drivers, its reliability and efficiency are the reasons why it can also be recommended to gamers, who put the stability of the system in the first place.  MX Linux is most appropriate in the case of casual gaming and users who appreciate performance on a modest system.

• Minimum System Requirements: 2 GHz dual-core CPU, 4GB RAM, 25GB storage
• Latest Stable Version: MX Linux 23

Pros:

• Extremely lightweight
• Stable Debian base
• Great for low-end systems
• Fast boot times
• Simple tools
• Reliable performance

Cons:

• Older software packages
• Manual gaming setup
• Less modern UI

13. Nobara Project

Website: nobaraproject.org

Nobara Project is a Linux distribution based on Fedora that was designed specifically to support gamers and content creators. It provides customising kernels, customised drivers, and pre-installed game software such as Steam, Lutris and OBS. Nobara also resolves numerous gaming related problems included in the default Fedora, including limitations on codecs and drivers.

It provides high-quality performance, low-latency, and less jerky gameplay. Nobara is a suitable gaming distro that allows gamers to enjoy Fedora with the innovative features without having to tweak them manually, thus making it a powerful plug-and-play gaming distro.

• Minimum System Requirements: 2 GHz dual-core CPU, 4GB RAM, 25GB storage
• Latest Stable Version: Nobara 39/40

Pros:

• Gaming-ready Fedora variant
• Preinstalled drivers and codecs
• Low-latency kernel
• Excellent FPS performance
• Streamer-friendly
• Minimal configuration needed

Cons:

• Smaller community
• Limited official support
• Not LTS-based

14. Drauger OS

Website: draugeros.org

Drauger OS is one of the high-performance Linux Distros for Gaming and is aimed at delivering maximum performance. It is based on Ubuntu and uses a low-latency kernel, which is highly responsive to games.Drauger OS reduces the number of background processes and comes preloaded with gaming essentials.

It is compatible with Steam, Proton, Wine, and Vulkan, ensuring a wide range of game compatibility.Drauger OS is not the most suitable option for daily productivity, but it excels in providing high FPS and lower input lag. It is most appropriate for gamers who prioritize raw gaming performance over general-purpose functionality.

• Minimum System Requirements: 2 GHz dual-core CPU, 4GB RAM, 25GB storage
• Latest Stable Version: Drauger OS 7.x

Pros:

• Low-latency kernel
• Performance-focused design
• Minimal background tasks
• Excellent FPS gains
• Ubuntu base
• Built for gaming only

Cons:

• Limited general-purpose use
• Small user base
• Fewer updates

15. Solus

Website: getsol.us

Solus is a free Linux operating system that is performance-oriented and simple. It has the Budgie desktop environment, which is clean and responsive. Solus is compatible with Steam, Lutris, and Proton, which provide a smooth gaming experience. It has a rolling release mechanism, which keeps the drivers and kernels updated.

Solus is software-oriented, which is curated to give it stability and performance. Compared to its competitors, Solus has less software content; however, it is a great option to gamers that demand performance, style, and less clutter on the system.

• Minimum System Requirements: 2 GHz dual-core CPU, 4GB RAM, 25GB storage
• Latest Stable Version: Solus 4.5

Pros:

• Fast and responsive
• Optimised Budgie desktop
• Rolling release model
• Clean system design
• Strong gaming performance
• Minimal bloatware

Cons:

• Smaller software repository
• Limited third-party support
• Less beginner documentation

Ending Thoughts

Choosing the right Linux Distros for Gaming can significantly enhance your overall experience, from smoother gameplay to better hardware compatibility. Each gaming-focused Linux distribution offers its own strengths, whether it is optimised performance, ease of use, or advanced customisation options. Some distros come with pre-installed drivers and gaming tools, while others allow gamers to fine-tune their systems for maximum control. 

The best choice ultimately depends on your hardware, gaming preferences, and technical comfort level. As Linux gaming continues to grow with improved support from developers and platforms, selecting a suitable distro ensures stability, efficiency, and long-term enjoyment for both casual and competitive gamers alike.

FAQs

Is Linux Good For Gaming Compared to Windows?

Linux gaming has improved significantly with tools like Steam Proton, but Windows still supports more native games overall.

Do Linux Gaming Distros Support NVIDIA and AMD GPUs?

Yes, most gaming-focused Linux distros provide excellent support for both NVIDIA and AMD graphics cards through proprietary and open-source drivers.

Can I Play Steam Games on Linux?

Yes, Steam for Linux supports thousands of games, and Proton allows many Windows-only games to run smoothly on Linux.

Is Linux Gaming Suitable For Beginners?

Yes, several Linux distros are beginner-friendly and come with pre-installed gaming tools and simple user interfaces.