Overview

Pop!_OS, developed by System76, is a Linux distribution based on Ubuntu but with a more refined and performance-focused approach. Known for its sleek design, ease of use, and developer-friendly features, Pop!_OS caters to both casual users and power users, including gamers, programmers, and creators.

The current Long-Term Support (LTS) version, 22.04, continues to demonstrate System76's commitment to providing a smooth, efficient, and optimized user experience.

Installation Experience

The installation process for Pop!_OS is one of the best in the Linux ecosystem. System76 provides a clean, user-friendly installer with minimal steps, making it a hassle-free experience.

• Options for NVIDIA Users: One of the standout features is the separate NVIDIA ISO, which includes proprietary drivers out of the box. This is a game-changer for users with NVIDIA GPUs, as it eliminates the need to manually install drivers post-installation.
• Disk Encryption by Default: Pop!_OS prioritizes security with full-disk encryption enabled by default—a feature not all distributions include during installation.

Verdict: Quick, intuitive, and polished—ideal for both new users and seasoned Linux enthusiasts.

User Interface and Design

Pop!_OS uses a customized version of GNOME 42, which is both visually appealing and highly functional.

• Cosmic Desktop: Pop!_OS comes with the COSMIC desktop environment, a System76 enhancement of GNOME, tailored for better efficiency.
  • Workspaces and Tiling: Automatic window tiling is one of the most powerful features of COSMIC. You can easily organize your workspace with a grid layout for multitasking, accessible with a simple toggle switch. Keyboard shortcuts make this process fast and fluid.
  • Dock and Launcher: The launcher (accessible via Super + /) allows users to search applications, files, and run commands—a productivity boost for power users.
  • Theming: By default, the color scheme is professional with dark and light options, but System76's emphasis on clean lines and muted colors ensures it looks modern and distraction-free.

While not as customizable as KDE Plasma, COSMIC strikes an excellent balance between aesthetics and usability.

Verdict: The COSMIC desktop is polished and productivity-driven, with a minimalist, efficient feel.

Performance

Pop!_OS is highly optimized for performance.

1. Resource Management: Pop!_OS uses fewer system resources compared to standard GNOME desktops, ensuring smooth performance even on older hardware.
2. NVIDIA and GPU Support: Gamers and creators benefit significantly from System76's GPU optimizations. The out-of-the-box NVIDIA drivers provide excellent frame rates and CUDA support for workloads like rendering and AI.
3. Battery Life: On laptops, Pop!_OS provides balanced power management, thanks to System76's Power Profiles. Users can toggle between Battery Saver, Balanced, and High Performance modes.

For development tasks, the distribution feels snappy. Compiling code or running virtual machines shows no noticeable lag, especially when paired with the lightweight desktop features.

Verdict: Exceptional performance for both lightweight and intensive workloads.

Software and Package Management

Pop!_OS uses the APT package manager, and its repositories are based on Ubuntu.

• Pop!_Shop: The software center in Pop!_OS, Pop!_Shop, is clean and intuitive. It includes applications as both Debian packages and Flatpaks, offering a wide range of software options.
• Flatpak Support: Native Flatpak support ensures you can get the latest versions of applications without dependency conflicts.
• Developer Focus: Pop!_OS includes a variety of tools developers love. From pre-installed support for Python, Node.js, and Docker to easy integration with IDEs like VSCode, the system is developer-ready.

Verdict: Software management is simple, versatile, and modern.

Gaming

Pop!_OS is one of the most gaming-friendly Linux distributions available.

• Built-in NVIDIA Drivers: No need for manual driver setup; the pre-installed NVIDIA drivers provide excellent performance for AAA titles.
• Proton and Steam: Steam with Proton works seamlessly, allowing you to play many Windows-based games. Pop!_OS also supports tools like Lutris and Heroic Game Launcher for further game management.
• Performance Optimizations: The High-Performance power profile ensures games run smoothly without unnecessary CPU throttling.

Verdict: One of the top Linux distributions for gaming—effortless and optimized.

Key Features Worth Highlighting

1. Window Tiling: Saves time by automatically arranging open windows—perfect for multitasking.
2. NVIDIA Optimizations: Best-in-class out-of-the-box NVIDIA support.
3. Power Profiles: On laptops, easily switch between battery saving and performance modes.
4. Full Disk Encryption: Security-focused without user intervention.
5. COSMIC Keyboard Shortcuts: A power user's dream with intuitive keyboard navigation.

Downsides

While Pop!_OS shines in most areas, there are a few minor limitations:

• COSMIC Customization: Compared to KDE, the COSMIC desktop lacks deep customization options for advanced users.
• GNOME-Based Limitations: Some quirks from GNOME remain, such as limited extension compatibility.
• No ARM Support: Currently, Pop!_OS does not have official ARM support, which means it isn’t usable on devices like the Raspberry Pi.

Conclusion

Pop!_OS 22.04 LTS is an outstanding Linux distribution that combines performance, usability, and aesthetics. It excels at multitasking, gaming, and developer workflows, while its COSMIC desktop offers a clean, modern experience.

Whether you're a developer, gamer, or Linux enthusiast, Pop!_OS is a reliable and polished choice. System76’s attention to user experience, performance, and hardware integration makes it stand out among Linux distributions.

Pros:
✅ Beautiful and efficient COSMIC desktop
✅ Out-of-the-box NVIDIA support
✅ Great performance for gaming and development
✅ Strong security with disk encryption

Cons:
❌ Limited desktop customization
❌ No ARM support

Final Score: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.8/5)

Pop!_OS is one of the best Linux distributions available today—a modern, fast, and functional OS perfect for productivity and gaming.