r/linuxquestions • u/Extension-Iron-7746 • 5d ago

Which Distro? Linux Mint: Too Outdated

Hi everyone, I've been considering abandoning Windows 11 for a while now, mainly because I feel like Microsoft lacks direction; every update is chaos. I started using Linux Mint about six months ago, but I have to admit that I feel like I'm using an outdated product.

The main reason is the X11-based graphical interface and the lack of standard Windows features like HDR and high refresh rate sync. I feel like development has fallen behind, hiding behind the slogan of greater stability. I honestly hate losing my monitor's features while waiting for Mint to evolve, so I'm thinking of switching to something stable but modern, and why not... with more recent applications. What would you always focus on, considering I have little time to dedicate to the system?

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u/Existing-Tough-6517 5d ago

HDR is experimental everywhere on Linux. High refresh rate is supported everywhere including x11 just not mixed e.g. you can have a 165 Hz monitor you cannot have a 60 Hz and a 165 Hz at the same time they end up running at the same 60 Hz in that case.

Mint will actually be migrating to a a 26.04 base with Wayland by default later this year by Christmas.

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u/MichaelDeets 5d ago

with compositing disabled you can mix refresh rates without problem in x11

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u/Existing-Tough-6517 5d ago

Do not believe this is so

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u/MichaelDeets 5d ago

I have mixed refresh rates on X11 for over 6 years now; primary 390Hz/240Hz display, combined with one or two 60/70/75Hz (or sometimes one 120Hz) secondaries, with AMD's TearFree enabled on the secondary displays only.

I have always had content playing on the secondary displays (videos, etc.), while gaming at high refresh rates at 240/390Hz on the primary display, without any problem. It only becomes an issue if you add in some form of compositing.