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ZDNET's key takeaways
- Hyprland is simplified, thanks to these distributions.
- These distributions are all Arch-based.
- You can download and use each of these for free.
Hyprland. Other than the missing “e,” what makes this so special?
First off, it's a relatively newish Linux desktop. Second, it's not so much a desktop as it is a dynamic tiling Wayland compositor (aka “window manager”). Third, it's a perfect combination of modernity and old-school Linux desktops that makes it appealing to users of all sorts… even the average user.
OK, some might consider the above statement somewhat bold. Considering Hyprland is a window manager that eshews the mouse in favor of the keyboard. Sure, you can use the mouse for some actions, but the majority of Hyprland is controlled by the keyboard.
Also: How to install Arch Linux without losing your mind
The main features of Hyprland include:
- Dynamic Tiling, which automatically arranges windows in a “dwindle” or “master-stack” layout
- Plenty of eye-candy, including built-in blur, shadows, animated windows, and rounded corners
- Design specifically for Wayland for more modern features and security
- Configuration via a single, easy-to-read configuration file (Hyprland.conf) that updates in real time
- Lightweight and efficient, so it runs on both older and modern hardware
- Support for a robust plugin system
When I first started testing Hyprland, I found it to be a bit challenging, mostly because I had to train my fingers on keyboard combinations for just about everything. However, once I understood those combos, Hyprland became easy to use (and incredibly efficient).
The one issue with Hyprland is that installing it on your favorite distribution can be challenging. On top of that, once you've successfully installed it, you wind up with a basic configuration that is neither attractive nor terribly useful.
Fortunately, there are distributions available that make using Hyprland a reality for just about everyone.
1. StratOS
I recently reviewed StratOS and found that it not only makes Hyprland a piece of cake but also makes for a gorgeous desktop distribution. Seriously, it's really cool. In that piece, I said, “Recently, I discovered StratOS, and my immediate reaction was, ‘Wow.' I honestly can't remember the last time a Linux distribution had me staring wide-eyed at all its glory.””
As soon as I logged into StratOS, I immediately thought that it could be the distribution that could take me away from my beloved Pop!_OS. It didn't… but it could have.
StratOS is based on Arch Linux (which is a common theme among the distributions on this list). StratOS also offers versions with the GNOME and Niri, but it's the Hyprland desktop that makes it really special.
Also: Seeking the latest in Linux? There's a right way and a wrong way to use Distrowatch
StratOS also offers a nice app you can open that shows all of the important keyboard shortcuts.
The only caveat to StratOS is that it doesn't include an app store GUI. Fret not, because you can install Pamac with the command:
yay install pamac
Once you've done that, you have everything you need to enjoy this beautiful take on the hyrpland desktop.
2. Garuda Linux
You might remember my review of the KDE Dr460nized version of Garuda. That distribution happens to be one of the coolest-looking desktops on the market. Guess what? Garuda also has a Hyprland edition.
One thing you'll like about the Garuda Hyprland edition is that it includes several themes to choose from, as well as a high-performing kernel (Zen Kernel) and system snapshots/rollbacks, thanks to the Btrfs file system.
This Garuda edition delivers a smoothly animated Wayland experience, outstanding support for both NVIDIA and AMD GPUs, Garuda Hyprland is ideal for those who want the ability to “rice” (extensively customizing the visual appearance and workflow of Hyprland) their systems, but (more importantly) want something that just works.
Garuda Hyprland definitely “just works.”
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The one hit against this take on Hyprland is that, unlike StratOS, this wasn't created to serve as a lightweight distribution. You'll want modern hardware with plenty of resources, so Hyprland runs as expected.
Garuda Hyprland is ideal for those who want the ability to “rice” their systems, but (more importantly) want something that just works. For those who don't know, “ricing” is the act of extensively customizing the visual appearance and workflow of Hyprland.
3. CachyOS
Now we're back to a distribution that was designed for speed and performance. We're also still on the Arch-linux bandwagon.
The CachyOS Hyprland edition is one that is suitable for new and seasoned users, thanks to the preconfigured Hyprland desktop it uses by default.
Another thing to consider is that CachyOS has been at the top of the Distrowatch hit ranking list for some time. If you combine that with Hyprland's rising popularity, you start to understand why this take on the desktop is definitely one to consider.
Another thing I firmly believe in is that CachyOS is an excellent distribution for gaming. Considering that a lot of gamers use their keyboard for primary control. Given that Hyprland is all about the keyboard, this makes for a perfect match.
Gamers, take note.
4. Omarchy
Omarchy was the first Linux distribution that made Hyprland an option for me. Prior to finding Omarchy, I struggled getting Hyprland installed and working properly. Yes, it can be done, but it can also be problematic.
Omarchy stripped away that problem to make using Hyprland a treat. You get a beautiful (but not complicated) default setup
One thing to consider about Omarchy is that it is considered an “Omakase” distribution. Omakase is a Japanese word that translates to “I'll leave it up to you.” In other words, you have complete say in how your desktop is configured and used.
At the same time, Omarchy is also considered an “Opinionated” Linux distribution, which means that it comes pre-configured, so there's very little need for customization.
Also: This Debian-based Linux distro is an overlooked and user-friendly gem
You can customize it. You don't have to customize it.
Omarchy also ships with all of the applications you need to be creative, productive, and/or entertained, right out of the box.
