If you’re a gamer who wants to break free from Windows, a Linux gaming distro is an excellent option. Gamers think Linux is too complex, but new gaming-oriented distros have revolutionized the game. They have pre-installed drivers, Steam compatibility, and performance optimizations—so you can dive right into gaming without hassles.

In this tutorial, we’re going to talk about the best Linux gaming distros of 2024, what makes them special, and how to choose the right one for your hardware. If you’re a gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, there’s a perfect Linux distro for you.

What Makes a Linux Distro Good for Gaming?

Before diving into the best options, let’s understand what separates a great Linux gaming distro from a generic one. Not all Linux systems are optimized for gaming, so the best ones include:

1. Optimized Graphics Drivers

A good gaming distro should support both NVIDIA and AMD GPUs out of the box. Manually installing drivers can be frustrating, so distros like Pop!_OS and Garuda Linux include them by default.

2. Proton & Steam Compatibility

As most PC games are built for Windows, there needs to be a strong Proton (Valve’s compatibility layer) integration. Distro such as Nobara Linux tweaks Proton to provide even better performance.

3. Low-Latency Kernel

Some distros use a real-time or Zen kernel, which reduces input lag and improves frame pacing. This is especially important for competitive gaming.

4. Background Processes kept to a bare minimum

One of the distinctions between Linux and Windows is that Linux can be reduced to concentrate entirely on gaming performance. Some distros disable undesired services in a bid to free CPU and RAM.

Let’s look at some of the top Linux distros for gaming.

1. Pop!_OS – The Top All-Round for New Users

System76 developed the very user-friendly Pop!_OS, arguably one of the most user-friendly gaming distros on Linux. It’s an Ubuntu-derived distro with NVIDIA drivers installed, which saves you from time-consuming setup processes.

Why Gamers Love Pop!_OS

Easy Setup – No need to manually install GPU drivers.

Great for Steam – Works flawlessly with Steam Play (Proton).

Clean Interface – A minimalist desktop that is simple to use.

Pop!_OS is perfect if you want a hassle-free, game-ready experience without messing around with technical settings.

2. Garuda Linux – The Performance Beast

If you want peak speed, Garuda Linux is a serious contender. It’s an Arch Linux branch but for hardcore gaming.

Garuda’s Key Features

Zen Kernel – Slows input lag for competitive gaming.

Chaotic-AUR Repository – Grants access to tons of gaming tools.

Btrfs File System – Allows snapshots (immediate system recovery).

Garuda’s not the most beginner-friendly distro, but if you’re looking for raw power, it’s worth learning.

3. Nobara Project – The Gamer’s Choice

Created by GloriousEggroll (a prominent Proton contributor), Nobara Linux is a Fedora distro that’s specifically optimized for gaming.

Why It’s Special

Custom Proton Builds – Enhanced compatibility with Windows games.

Pre-Installed Codecs – No extra steps to play media.

Fixed Gaming Issues – Solves most typical Fedora problems.

If you want the most recent gaming optimizations, Nobara is a great option.

4. Ubuntu – The Reliable Classic

Ubuntu is the most popular Linux distro, and while it’s not specifically for gaming, it’s still a viable choice.

Why Use Ubuntu for Gaming?

Huge Community – It’s easy to find support online.

Steam Compatibility – Functions well with Proton.

Long-Term Stability – Less crashing than experimental distros.

Ubuntu is great if you require a balance of gaming and general use.

5. ChimeraOS – The Console Alternative

ChimeraOS turns your PC into a SteamOS-like console. It directly boots into Big Picture Mode, making it ideal for TV gaming.

Top Features

Controller-Friendly – Built for living room setups.

No Desktop Mode – Pure gaming only.

Auto-Updates – Always keeps things rolling.

If you want a console-like experience, ChimeraOS is the best.

6. Lakka – The Retro Gaming King

For retro gamers, Lakka is a lightweight distro that boots RetroArch, emulating the vintage consoles like NES, PS1, and Sega Genesis.

Why Retro Gamers Like Using It

Light System Requirements – Boots even on low-end hardware.

Easy Interface – Easy to use with a controller.

Massive Emulator Support – Plays thousands of retro games.

Lakka is not for AAA titles, but perfect for nostalgia.

How Retro Gamers Select the Best Linux Gaming Distro

Selecting the right distro depends on your needs:

New to Linux? → Pop!_OS or Ubuntu (easy install).

Want the most performance? → Garuda Linux or Nobara.

Gaming on TV or controller? → ChimeraOS.

Retro gaming? → Lakka.

All Linux gaming distros have their best features, so prioritize what matters most to you.

Final Thoughts: Is Linux Good for Gaming in 2024?

Gaming under Linux has reached far in the last few years. With Proton, better drivers, and gaming-optimized distros, you can play thousands of Windows games without a hitch.

Single-player and most indie games remain unsupported, and a few anti-cheat-laden titles (like Valorant), but a large majority are fine. If you’re tired of Windows bloat or just want to tinker, a Linux gaming distro is a great choice.