SteamOS - The Ultimate Gaming Powerhouse

SteamOS is not just another Linux distribution; it's a full-fledged gaming powerhouse engineered by Valve Corporation. Designed explicitly for gaming, it transforms any PC into a dedicated gaming machine, offering the best integration with Steam, native gamepad support, and cutting-edge compatibility layers. Built on Debian, it’s optimized for performance, ensuring low-latency input, stable frame rates, and seamless gaming sessions. With Proton and Steam Play, it breaks barriers, allowing you to play Windows games on Linux effortlessly.

Why SteamOS is the Best Linux Distro for Gaming?

1. Official Steam Integration

1. Pre-installed Steam Client with direct access to the Steam Store and Library.
2. Big Picture Mode for a console-like experience on a PC or TV.
3. Auto-update system ensures seamless game and driver updates.

2. Proton & Steam Play – Play Windows Games Natively

1. Uses Proton (Wine + DXVK + FAudio) to run Windows-exclusive games on Linux.
2. Supports DirectX-to-Vulkan translation, ensuring better graphics performance.
3. Anti-cheat support (BattleEye & Easy Anti-Cheat) for multiplayer gaming.

3. Gamepad & Console-Friendly UI

1. Plug-and-play support for controllers like Xbox, PlayStation, and Steam Controller.
2. Optimized for couch gaming with a TV-friendly UI.
3. Customizable controller mappings for any game.

4. Optimized Linux Kernel for Gaming

1. Ships with a custom low-latency kernel, reducing input lag.
2. Pre-tuned for gaming workloads with optimized CPU scheduling.
3. Supports high-performance file systems like ext4 and XFS.

5. Minimal System Overhead

1. Debian-based lightweight OS, no unnecessary background processes.
2. Dedicated to gaming performance, eliminating bloatware.
3. Perfect for low-end and high-end PCs, maximizing FPS and stability.

6. Native Vulkan & OpenGL Support

1. Vulkan API support for modern gaming engines (Unity, Unreal Engine).
2. Better OpenGL performance for older games.
3. Seamless integration with Mesa drivers for AMD and Intel GPUs.

7. Steam Cloud & Remote Play

1. Sync game progress across devices using Steam Cloud.
2. Stream games from a powerful PC to another device with Steam Remote Play.
3. LAN Co-op gaming via Steam Link.

8. Easy Customization & Modding

1. Full Linux desktop mode available for advanced users.
2. Allows installation of third-party software and emulators.
3. Custom kernel tuning options for extreme performance tweaks.

SteamOS stands at the pinnacle of Linux gaming distros due to its seamless integration with Steam, Proton support, and gaming-optimized performance. Whether you're a casual gamer or a competitive eSports player, SteamOS delivers a console-like experience on your PC while giving you full control over customizations. It’s not just a Linux OS; it’s the ultimate gaming ecosystem.

Pop!_OS – The Powerhouse Linux Distro for Gamers

Pop!_OS, developed by System76, is a gaming beast designed to maximize GPU performance, streamline workflow, and enhance gaming compatibility. Unlike traditional Linux distros, Pop!_OS delivers an optimized out-of-the-box experience with built-in NVIDIA and AMD drivers, ensuring seamless performance for gamers and creators alike. With a custom GNOME-based COSMIC desktop, auto-tiling, and flatpak support, it strikes a perfect balance between gaming performance, productivity, and ease of use.

Why Pop!_OS is the Best for Gaming?

1. Built-in GPU Drivers – No Setup Hassle

1. Comes with a dedicated NVIDIA version, preloaded with proprietary drivers.
2. Zero manual setup required – just install and start gaming.
3. Fully optimized for RTX, GTX, Radeon, and APU-based GPUs.

2. Game-Ready Performance Tuning

1. System76 Performance Mode dynamically adjusts CPU and GPU power limits.
2. Hybrid Graphics Mode allows switching between iGPU and dGPU for battery efficiency.
3. Supports Vulkan, DXVK, and OpenGL optimizations for high FPS gaming.

3. Auto-Tiling & Window Management for Efficiency

1. Dynamic tiling system arranges windows automatically for better multitasking.
2. Keyboard shortcuts allow quick switching between gaming and productivity.
3. Minimal UI distractions, keeping resources dedicated to gaming.

4. Flatpak & Lutris Support – Unlimited Games

1. Full support for Flatpak, Snap, and AppImage for the latest game tools.
2. Lutris compatibility for easy installation of non-Steam and Windows-based games.
3. One-click Proton & Wine setup for seamless Windows gaming on Linux.

5. Optimized for Steam & Proton Gaming

1. Pre-installed Steam, Proton, and GameMode for a plug-and-play gaming experience.
2. Auto-detects game dependencies and optimizes the system for best performance.
3. Supports low-latency audio for competitive gaming.

6. Minimal Bloat, Maximum Speed

1. Ubuntu-based, but stripped of unnecessary packages to improve speed.
2. System76’s custom kernel optimizations improve real-time gaming performance.
3. Lightweight RAM usage, ensuring better frame stability.

7. Superior Hardware Compatibility

1. Supports NVIDIA Optimus, AMD Radeon, and Intel Xe Graphics without extra configs.
2. Optimized for System76 laptops, but works on all major gaming rigs.
3. Includes automatic firmware updates for latest GPU enhancements.

Technical Comparison: Pop!_OS vs Other Gaming Distros

 If you're a gamer who values simplicity, power, and optimization, Pop!_OS delivers a rock-solid experience. With pre-installed GPU drivers, auto-tiling for efficiency, and seamless Windows game support, it’s the go-to distro for both casual and hardcore gamers. Whether you're running an RTX 4090 or an AMD APU, Pop!_OS ensures smooth, stable, and high-performance gaming.

Ubuntu GamePack – The Ultimate Hybrid Gaming Linux Distro

Ubuntu GamePack is a gaming-optimized Linux distribution built for seamless compatibility with both Windows and Linux games. Developed by UALinux, it is designed to eliminate compatibility headaches, offering a preloaded ecosystem with Wine, PlayOnLinux, Lutris, and Steam. Unlike standard Ubuntu, this distro prioritizes gaming performance, ensuring high FPS, reduced input lag, and smooth gameplay across multiple platforms.

Why Ubuntu GamePack is the Best for Gaming?

1. Ultimate Windows & Linux Game Compatibility

1. Pre-installed Wine & PlayOnLinux for running Windows-exclusive games natively.
2. Full Steam support with built-in Proton for Windows game compatibility.
3. Lutris integration for managing and running GOG, Epic Games, and Battle.net titles.
4. DOSBox & RetroArch pre-installed for retro and emulator-based gaming.

2. Low-Latency Kernel for High FPS & Stability

1. Optimized low-latency Ubuntu kernel reduces frame drops.
2. DXVK and Vulkan support for better rendering and DirectX compatibility.
3. Minimal background processes, keeping CPU and RAM focused on gaming.

3. Best Gaming Driver Support (NVIDIA, AMD & Intel)

1. Latest NVIDIA proprietary drivers installed out of the box.
2. AMDGPU & Mesa drivers for maximum Radeon and Intel Xe Graphics performance.
3. Auto-detection of GPUs, controllers, and gaming peripherals.

4. Integrated Cloud & Remote Gaming Support

1. Preloaded with Steam Link & Moonlight for streaming games from a powerful PC.
2. Support for cloud gaming platforms like GeForce NOW & Stadia.
3. Optimized for LAN multiplayer gaming with built-in networking tools.

5. Ubuntu-Based Stability with Low System Overhead

1. Built on Ubuntu LTS, ensuring long-term security updates and stability.
2. Flatpak, AppImage, and Snap support for installing gaming tools instantly.
3. Minimal resource usage, freeing up CPU & RAM for smooth gameplay.

Technical Comparison: Ubuntu GamePack vs Other Gaming Distros

 If you’re looking for a powerful, hybrid gaming distro that can run both Windows and Linux games out of the box, Ubuntu GamePack is the ultimate solution. With built-in Wine, PlayOnLinux, and Lutris, it eliminates the need for manual setup and lets you jump straight into gaming. 

Garuda Linux (Gaming Edition) – The Ultimate High-Performance Rolling Release Gaming Distro

Garuda Linux (Gaming Edition) is a cutting-edge gaming distribution built on Arch Linux, offering unparalleled speed, stability, and customization. Unlike traditional distros, it leverages the Zen Kernel to deliver ultra-low latency, optimized CPU scheduling, and real-time performance for gaming. With its BTRFS file system, automatic snapshots, and preloaded gaming tools, Garuda is built for power users and hardcore gamers who want the latest drivers, software, and performance tuning without compromise.

Why Garuda Linux (Gaming Edition) is the Best for Gamers?

1. Zen Kernel – Ultimate Low-Latency Performance

1. Preconfigured Zen Kernel boosts gaming FPS by reducing input lag and scheduling overhead.
2. Real-time process tuning minimizes stuttering and frame drops.
3. Optimized for AMD Ryzen and Intel Core processors to handle high gaming loads efficiently.

2. BTRFS with Automatic Snapshots – No More Game Corruption

1. BTRFS file system provides real-time data integrity protection.
2. Built-in Timeshift snapshots allow instant rollback if updates break the system.
3. No risk of file corruption, even after a crash or unexpected shutdown.

3. Preloaded Gaming Tools – Everything Ready to Play

1. Comes with Steam, Lutris, Proton, and Wine pre-installed for seamless Windows game support.
2. Preloaded with MangoHud, a real-time performance overlay for FPS monitoring.
3. OpenRGB for RGB lighting control, optimizing hardware aesthetics.

4. Cutting-Edge Graphics Drivers – Always Up to Date

1. Uses the latest NVIDIA and AMD Mesa drivers, ensuring maximum GPU performance.
2. Preconfigured Vulkan, DXVK, and Feral Gamemode for direct gaming optimizations.
3. Out-of-the-box hybrid graphics support for laptops with NVIDIA Optimus.

5. Ultimate Customization with KDE & Performance Tweaks

1. KDE Plasma with custom themes for a sleek and optimized UI.
2. Auto CPU governor switching between power-saving and performance mode.
3. Garuda Assistant lets you tweak every performance setting with a GUI.

6. Arch Linux Rolling Release – Always on the Latest Build

1. Latest Linux kernel, Mesa, and GPU drivers updated instantly.
2. No need to reinstall the OS – rolling updates keep your system fresh.
3. Access to the AUR (Arch User Repository) for thousands of extra gaming tools.

Technical Comparison: Garuda Linux vs Other Gaming Distros

 If you want a high-performance, ultra-tweakable, and constantly updated gaming system, Garuda Linux is the ultimate choice. With Zen Kernel optimizations, real-time CPU scheduling, automatic snapshots, and cutting-edge gaming tools, Garuda blows traditional gaming distros out of the water.

Manjaro Gaming Edition – The Perfect Blend of Power and Stability for Gamers

Manjaro Gaming Edition delivers the power of Arch Linux with unmatched ease of use, making it an ideal choice for both casual and hardcore gamers. Unlike traditional Arch setups, Manjaro provides a pre-configured, stable gaming environment with built-in Steam, Lutris, Proton, and Vulkan drivers, allowing you to jump straight into gaming without any manual setup. Combining rolling-release updates, cutting-edge hardware support, and an optimized gaming experience, Manjaro Gaming Edition brings performance, reliability, and customization to the next level.

Why Manjaro Gaming Edition is the Best for Gamers?

1. Arch Linux Power with Stability & Easy Setup

1. Arch-based but with a user-friendly installer and pre-configured settings.
2. Rolling-release model ensures latest drivers, kernels, and gaming tools.
3. Minimal manual setup required, unlike vanilla Arch Linux.

2. Preloaded with Steam & Lutris – Plug & Play Gaming

1. Steam pre-installed, ensuring instant access to thousands of native and Proton-supported games.
2. Lutris included, allowing one-click installation of Windows games via Wine, DXVK, and Vulkan.
3. Full GOG, Epic Games, and Battle.net compatibility through Lutris.

3. Gaming-Optimized Kernel & Performance Enhancements

1. Uses the Manjaro-tuned Linux kernel, delivering low-latency gaming.
2. Custom CPU governor profiles optimize power efficiency and performance.
3. Integrated Gamemode & MangoHud for real-time performance monitoring.

4. Cutting-Edge Graphics Drivers for NVIDIA & AMD

1. Latest NVIDIA proprietary drivers with prime-run support for hybrid GPUs.
2. Mesa drivers pre-installed for AMD Radeon GPUs, ensuring max Vulkan performance.
3. Auto-hardware detection, ensuring the best configuration for every system.

5. AUR Support – Access to Thousands of Gaming Tools

• Manjaro’s access to Arch User Repository (AUR) enables easy installation of:
  1. PCSX2 (PS2 emulator)
  2. RPCS3 (PS3 emulator)
  3. Dolphin (GameCube/Wii emulator)
  4. Heroic Games Launcher (Epic Games & GOG support)

6. Customizable Desktop Environments for Gaming Experience

1. Choose between KDE Plasma, XFCE, or GNOME, each optimized for gaming.
2. Minimal system resource consumption, leaving more CPU & RAM for games.
3. Auto-tiling window manager for multi-tasking and streaming setup.

Technical Comparison: Manjaro Gaming Edition vs Other Gaming Distros

 Manjaro Gaming Edition is the ultimate Arch-based distro for gamers, offering stability, performance, and customization without the complexity of vanilla Arch. With built-in Steam, Lutris, auto-hardware detection, and AUR access, it delivers everything a gamer needs right out of the box.

Batocera Linux – The Ultimate Plug-and-Play Retro Gaming OS

Batocera Linux is a specialized gaming distribution built for seamless retro gaming and emulation. Whether you want to revive your childhood classics on a Raspberry Pi, play arcade games on a PC, or turn old hardware into a gaming console, Batocera does it without complex configurations. Unlike standard Linux distros, Batocera is designed to be lightweight, fast, and preloaded with emulators, making it a true plug-and-play solution for retro gamers.

Why Batocera Linux is the Best for Retro Gamers?

1. Preloaded with 100+ Emulators – No Setup Needed

1. Out-of-the-box support for classic consoles, arcades, and computers.
2. Compatible with PlayStation, GameCube, Dreamcast, SNES, NES, Atari, Sega, and more.
3. Preconfigured RetroArch with shaders, overlays, and bezels for an authentic experience.

2. Runs on Almost Any Hardware – From Raspberry Pi to PCs

1. Lightweight OS that runs on low-power devices like Raspberry Pi, Odroid, and handheld consoles.
2. Supports x86, x86_64, ARM, and older laptops/desktops, making it perfect for repurposing old hardware.
3. Auto-detection of controllers and GPUs, ensuring maximum compatibility.

3. Zero-Install Gaming – Plug & Play USB Support

1. Can be installed on a USB drive or SD card and run on any system without affecting the host OS.
2. Drag-and-drop ROMs into the system and start playing instantly.
3. No terminal commands or Linux knowledge required – fully graphical interface.

4. Built-In Game Enhancements & Customization

1. Run games at higher resolutions with built-in upscaling.
2. Custom shaders, scanlines, and overlays for an authentic retro gaming experience.
3. Cloud save and rewind functionality to enhance gameplay.

5. Online Multiplayer & Streaming Support

1. Supports Netplay for playing classic multiplayer games online.
2. Built-in Moonlight support for streaming games from a powerful gaming PC.
3. Kodi integration allows media playback alongside gaming.

Technical Comparison: Batocera Linux vs Other Gaming Distros

 If you're looking for a hassle-free retro gaming experience that works on everything from Raspberry Pi to high-end gaming PCs, Batocera is the best choice. With 100+ preloaded emulators, plug-and-play USB support, and zero-installation gaming, Batocera turns any device into a retro gaming powerhouse. 

Lakka – The Ultimate Lightweight Retro Gaming OS

Lakka is the most lightweight and optimized Linux-based gaming OS designed specifically for retro gaming on low-end hardware. Developed by the Libretro Team, it transforms any old PC, Raspberry Pi, or handheld device into a powerful emulation machine. Unlike bulky gaming distros, Lakka is built with RetroArch at its core, providing a sleek, minimalistic UI, optimized performance, and advanced emulator settings. It’s the perfect choice for gamers who want maximum performance on minimal hardware.

Why Lakka is the Best for Retro Gamers?

1. Tiny Footprint, Big Performance

1. Ultra-light LibreELEC-based OS, ensuring low CPU and RAM usage.
2. Fast boot times with an optimized kernel.
3. Runs smoothly on Raspberry Pi, Intel Atom, and ARM-based devices.

2. Built-In RetroArch – The Best Emulation Interface

1. Unified UI for managing and playing retro games seamlessly.
2. Preloaded with Libretro cores for emulating PlayStation, SNES, NES, Sega, and more.
3. Shaders, filters, and overlays to recreate the authentic CRT gaming experience.

3. Plug-and-Play Support for Controllers

1. Auto-detects wired and wireless controllers.
2. Zero configuration required for PlayStation, Xbox, and generic USB controllers.
3. Hotkey support for quick in-game menu access.

4. Runs on Almost Any Hardware

1. Supports Raspberry Pi, low-power PCs, handheld consoles, and even old laptops.
2. Zero bloatware, leaving resources dedicated entirely to gaming.
3. Optimized for ARM and x86 architectures.

5. Built-In Netplay & Cloud Save Support

1. Online multiplayer (Netplay) support for retro gaming with friends.
2. Cloud Save Sync ensures you never lose progress.
3. Save state support allows instant game state recovery.

Technical Comparison: Lakka vs Other Retro Gaming Distros

 If you're looking for a lightweight, high-performance retro gaming OS that runs on even the weakest hardware, Lakka is the ultimate choice. With RetroArch integration, low system requirements, and seamless controller support, Lakka is the perfect OS for a pure and efficient retro gaming experience. 

Fedora Games Spin – The Ultimate Open-Source Gaming Powerhouse

Fedora Games Spin is a gaming-optimized Linux distribution built on the powerful Fedora base, offering a massive collection of 1000+ open-source games pre-installed. Designed for gamers who love open-source gaming without any hassle, it provides instant access to RPGs, strategy games, shooters, and more. Unlike other gaming distros that focus on Windows game compatibility, Fedora Games Spin is a pure Linux gaming experience with stability, performance, and cutting-edge software updates.

Why Fedora Games Spin is the Best for Gamers?

1. Pre-Installed with 1000+ Open-Source Games

1. Includes top open-source games like Battle for Wesnoth, SuperTuxKart, Xonotic, 0 A.D., Warzone 2100, and more.
2. No additional downloads required – just install and start playing.
3. Supports multiple gaming genres – RTS, FPS, Racing, Simulation, RPGs, and Arcade.

2. Optimized for Performance & Stability

1. Powered by Fedora Workstation, offering stability and latest updates.
2. Uses latest Linux kernel and Mesa drivers for optimal gaming performance.
3. Wayland support for low-latency rendering and smoother gaming experience.

3. Open-Source Friendly & Privacy Focused

1. 100% open-source software, meaning no proprietary lock-ins.
2. Fully compatible with Flatpak & Flathub, giving access to even more games.
3. Supports Lutris and Proton for additional gaming flexibility.

4. Lightweight & Hardware Friendly

1. Runs on both modern and older hardware without performance loss.
2. XFCE Desktop Environment keeps system resources dedicated to gaming.
3. Minimal background processes, ensuring maximum CPU and GPU efficiency.

5. Full Support for Additional Gaming Platforms

1. Compatible with Steam (Flatpak), Wine, and PlayOnLinux for running non-native Linux games.
2. Supports retro gaming with built-in emulators and tools.
3. Advanced package management (DNF) for fast updates and security patches.

Technical Comparison: Fedora Games Spin vs Other Gaming Distros

If you love open-source gaming and want instant access to a massive library of Linux-native games, Fedora Games Spin is the ultimate choice. With 1000+ pre-installed games, XFCE for lightweight performance, and cutting-edge Fedora updates, it is a pure Linux gaming powerhouse. 

Arch Linux – The Ultimate DIY Gaming Powerhouse

Arch Linux is the perfect Linux distro for hardcore gamers who demand absolute control, cutting-edge performance, and full system customization. Unlike pre-configured gaming distros, Arch is built from the ground up, allowing users to fine-tune every aspect of their gaming setup. With the latest Mesa, Vulkan, and kernel updates, rolling-release model, and access to the AUR (Arch User Repository), Arch Linux delivers the most powerful and flexible gaming experience available on Linux.

Why Arch Linux is the Best for Gamers?

1. The Fastest Access to Cutting-Edge Gaming Updates

1. Rolling-release model ensures instant access to the latest Mesa, Vulkan, and GPU drivers.
2. Kernel updates bring performance enhancements before other distros receive them.
3. Custom kernels (Zen, Liquorix, Xanmod) available for ultra-low latency gaming.

2. Absolute Customization – Your System, Your Rules

1. No bloatware – Install only what you need, keeping the system lightweight.
2. Choice of any Desktop Environment (KDE, GNOME, XFCE, i3, etc.) for tailored performance.
3. Minimal background processes, ensuring CPU and RAM are focused purely on gaming.

3. Full Control Over Graphics & Performance Optimization

1. Latest NVIDIA and AMD drivers updated faster than in other distros.
2. Easy manual tuning of GPU settings with nvidia-settings, AMDVLK, and Mesa utilities.
3. Gamemode, MangoHud, vkBasalt, and other performance tweaks available from AUR.

4. AUR – The Biggest Repository of Gaming Software

1. Access to thousands of gaming-related packages not available in standard repos.
2. Install Steam, Lutris, Heroic Games Launcher, Proton-GE, emulators, and more with ease.
3. Rolling updates ensure the newest versions of every gaming tool and library.

5. The Best Choice for Esports & Competitive Gaming

1. Minimal input lag and real-time process control for games like CS:GO, Dota 2, and Valorant (via Wine).
2. Tuned kernel options (RT Kernel, Zen Kernel) for ultra-low latency performance.
3. Networking tweaks available for better online gaming ping and packet prioritization.

Technical Comparison: Arch Linux vs Other Gaming Distros

If you’re a power user who wants total control, bleeding-edge updates, and the best possible gaming performance, Arch Linux is the ultimate gaming distro. With full system customization, AUR access, the latest Mesa/Vulkan updates, and kernel tuning options, Arch delivers a gaming experience like no other.

Zorin OS (Gaming Edition) – The Ultimate Windows Alternative for Gamers

Zorin OS (Gaming Edition) is a perfect Linux distribution for Windows gamers who want a seamless transition without losing access to their favorite games. Built on Ubuntu LTS, it is preloaded with Wine, DXVK, Steam, Lutris, and other gaming tools, making it one of the easiest plug-and-play Linux gaming distros. Its Windows-like interface, combined with strong performance optimizations and built-in drivers, ensures maximum compatibility and ease of use.

Why Zorin OS (Gaming Edition) is the Best for Gamers?

1. The Best Windows Compatibility for Gaming

1. Preloaded with Wine & DXVK for running Windows-exclusive games.
2. Lutris support for launching games from Epic Games, Battle.net, Origin, and GOG.
3. Proton compatibility for Steam games, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

2. Optimized for New & Old Hardware

1. Works out of the box with pre-installed NVIDIA, AMD, and Intel drivers.
2. Automatic performance tuning with Zorin’s built-in system optimizations.
3. Minimal system resource usage, keeping CPU & RAM focused on gaming.

3. Windows-Like Interface – No Learning Curve

1. Custom Zorin Desktop Environment mimics the Windows UI, making it easy to switch.
2. Drag-and-drop file management, taskbar, and system tray designed for familiarity.
3. Pre-installed gaming utilities like GameMode and MangoHud for FPS monitoring.

4. Native & Cloud Gaming Support

1. Preconfigured for Steam, Lutris, and RetroArch.
2. Moonlight streaming support for playing PC games on another device.
3. Native support for Flatpak & Snap for accessing more gaming apps.

5. Enhanced Stability & Security

1. Built on Ubuntu LTS, ensuring long-term support & stability.
2. Automatic updates & security patches without interrupting gameplay.
3. Zorin Connect integration for seamless smartphone-PC interaction.

Technical Comparison: Zorin OS (Gaming Edition) vs Other Gaming Distros

 If you’re switching from Windows to Linux and want a hassle-free gaming experience, Zorin OS Gaming Edition is the ultimate choice. With pre-installed Wine, DXVK, Steam, and Lutris, Windows gamers can jump straight into their favorite titles without complex configurations. 

Final words

Lets understand with a performance benchmark ( using tool benchmarking tools Phoronix Test Suite and others) comparison between SteamOS, Pop!_OS, Manjaro Gaming, and Garuda Linux running on a high-end gaming rig. The benchmarks focus on frame rates (FPS), system resource usage, and input latency.

Test System Configuration

1. CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 5800X
2. GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3080 (Driver: Latest Mesa/NVIDIA Proprietary)
3. RAM: 32GB DDR4 @ 3600MHz
4. Storage: 1TB NVMe SSD
5. Kernel Versions: Latest stable release for each distro
6. Games Tested: Cyberpunk 2077 (Proton), CS:GO (Native), Shadow of the Tomb Raider (DXVK), and DOOM Eternal (Vulkan)

Performance Benchmark Results (Average FPS & System Usage) 

 Key Takeaways:

1. SteamOS & Garuda Linux lead in FPS performance, thanks to their gaming-optimized kernels.
2. Pop!_OS performs slightly lower due to GNOME overhead & Ubuntu-based optimizations.
3. Manjaro Gaming is close but lacks some pre-tuned gaming optimizations found in SteamOS/Garuda.
4. SteamOS has the lowest RAM usage, making it more efficient.
5. Input latency on SteamOS is the lowest, optimized for controller/gamepad gaming.

Input Latency Comparison (Lower is Better)

Tested using OpenBenchMarking input lag analyzer with a 144Hz monitor. 

System Boot Time & Load Times

Measured using systemd-analyze and game load times via Steam

Final words

Based on these benchmarks, SteamOS remains the top gaming Linux distro

✔ Highest FPS performance across different games
✔ Lowest input latency for competitive gaming
✔ Best system efficiency with low RAM usage
✔ Fastest boot and game load times