Solus OS Review offers a comprehensive look at this unique, independent rolling‑release Linux distribution. Designed for desktop users, Solus now earns high praise for its gaming support, clean UI, and curated updates—all in a 2025‑ready package.
🔥 What Makes Solus Stand Out
Solus is built from scratch with a focus on simplicity, speed, and user experience. Its rolling model delivers weekly updates in a curated fashion, balancing freshness with stability :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
🎯 Gaming Performance & Software Support
Kernel & Graphics
Solus uses the linux-current kernel plus an optional LTS kernel, and ships with Mesa and proprietary Nvidia/AMD drivers—ideal for seamless gaming :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
Gaming Platforms
Steam, Proton, Lutris, and Wine are all supported. The Linux Steam Integration tool also enhances compatibility. Users report gaming “works great out of the box.” :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
💻 Desktop Experience & Usability
Budgie, Solus’s flagship desktop, delivers a polished, efficient experience. Lightweight and visually appealing, it boots fast and runs smoothly—even on mid-range hardware :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
Software Center & Package Management
Solus’s user-friendly Software Center is snappy and includes Flatpak/Snap support. eopkg, its native package manager, is straightforward and functional :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
📊 Solus vs. Other Linux Distros
| Aspect | Solus | Ubuntu | Arch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Release Model | Curated Rolling | Point‑release/LTS | Bleeding‑edge Rolling |
| Desktop Focus | Budgie (default) | GNOME | User’s choice |
| Gaming Support | Strong | Strong | Strong, manual setup |
| Stability | High | Very High | Varies |
| Package Ecosystem | Moderate + Flatpak/Snap | Large + PPA | Very Large + AUR |
🛠️ 5‑Step Setup & Installation
- Download the latest Solus ISO from the official site.
- Create a bootable USB (8 GB+) and start the installer.
- Choose Budgie, GNOME, Plasma, or MATE edition.
- Once installed, enable third‑party apps via Software Center.
- Install Steam, Lutris, Wine; update kernel if needed.
🔧 Compatibility & Limitations
Runs well on modern 64‑bit PCs and laptops. Ideal for casual to mid‑level gaming setups. Lacks older architecture support (no ARM/32‑bit).
Smaller community and fewer niche tutorials than Ubuntu—but very helpful forums :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
❓ Solus OS Review: FAQ
Is Solus good for gamers?
Yes—supports Steam, Proton, Lutris, Wine, and includes current graphics drivers and kernel updates.
What desktops are available?
Budgie (default), GNOME, KDE Plasma, and MATE—choose based on preference and performance needs.
Is rolling release stable?
Yes—weekly updates are curated. It’s more stable than Arch, but offers newer software than Ubuntu LTS.
✅ Final Thought & Call to Action
This Solus OS Review shows that Solus is a sleek, stable, and gamer-friendly distro in 2025. Its curated rolling updates, efficient Budgie desktop, and gaming support make it a solid choice for both everyday users and gamers.
Ready to switch? Download Solus today, install it, and experience a fast, modern desktop with quality gaming support!
For performance tips or desktop customization guides, check out our next article.
