cachyos/linux-cachyos — explained in plain English
Analysis updated 2026-05-18
Install a faster, gaming-tuned Linux kernel on an Arch Linux desktop or gaming PC.
Switch to the BORE scheduler for more responsive interactive performance.
Run a server or Steam Deck build with kernel patches specific to that hardware.
Use ZFS filesystem support and AMD power management improvements not in the stock kernel.
| cachyos/linux-cachyos | conduktor/kafka-stack-docker-compose | ful1e5/bibata_cursor | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stars | 3,617 | 3,622 | 3,622 |
| Language | Shell | Shell | Shell |
| Setup difficulty | moderate | moderate | easy |
| Complexity | 4/5 | 3/5 | 1/5 |
| Audience | ops devops | ops devops | general |
Figures from each repo's GitHub metadata at analysis time.
Only works on Arch Linux and its derivatives, installed through pacman with a CPU-detecting setup script.
This repository contains modified versions of the Linux kernel aimed at getting better performance out of desktop computers, gaming rigs, and servers running Arch Linux. The standard Linux kernel is a general-purpose piece of software that balances many competing goals. These kernels apply extra patches and configuration changes to shift that balance toward speed and responsiveness. The most significant difference is the choice of CPU scheduler, which is the part of the kernel that decides which programs get to run on the processor and when. Different schedulers suit different workloads. The BORE scheduler is designed for interactive tasks and gaming, where quick responses to user input matter more than raw throughput. The EEVDF scheduler is the default and is geared toward general computing. A third option, BMQ, is also available. There are also specialized builds for real-time workloads, long-term support users, servers, Steam Deck consoles, and security-focused setups. Beyond scheduler choices, the kernels are compiled with optimization flags tuned to specific CPU generations. Modern AMD and Intel processors can run certain instructions faster than older ones, and these builds take advantage of that. There is also support for a technique called Link Time Optimization, which produces faster code by analyzing the program as a whole during compilation rather than file by file. Other included improvements cover memory management to reduce slowdowns under low-memory conditions, better support for AMD power management features, HDR display support, patches for gaming hardware like the Steam Deck and ASUS ROG devices, and built-in support for the ZFS filesystem. Installation is handled through Arch Linux's package manager. A script detects your CPU type automatically and sets up the right package repositories. Manual installation steps are also documented for users who prefer that. The kernels are only for Arch Linux and its derivatives, and the repository is primarily shell scripts and build configuration files.
CachyOS's linux-cachyos provides modified Linux kernels for Arch Linux, tuned with faster CPU schedulers and compiler optimizations for gaming and desktop performance.
Mainly Shell. The stack also includes Shell, Linux kernel, Arch Linux.
Setup difficulty is rated moderate, with roughly 30min to a first successful run.
Mainly ops devops.
This repo across BitVibe Labs
Verify against the repo before relying on details.