Garuda Linux launches Garuda Nix as standalone NixOS distribution

Garuda Linux has announced the launch of Garuda Nix, a standalone Linux distribution built on the NixOS foundation. Previously known as the Garuda Nix Subsystem, the project has transitioned from a dual-boot add-on for Arch-based Garuda Linux into its own independent operating system.

Unlike the standard Garuda Linux, which is based on Arch Linux, Garuda Nix utilizes the declarative configuration approach of NixOS. The project offers two primary desktop configurations: ‘Dr460nized’, a gaming-oriented Plasma 6 variant, and ‘Mokka’, which features a Catppuccin-Mocha design. Both editions utilize ported dotfiles from the original Garuda Linux editions to maintain a familiar user experience.

Installation can be performed via the graphical Calamares installer or through the ‘install-garuda-nix’ command-line utility. Because the installation is network-based, users can deploy either desktop configuration regardless of which ISO is used. The project also includes Chaotic Nyx, a Nix-based counterpart to the well-known Chaotic-AUR repository.