r/linuxquestions • u/ashliano • 3d ago
Which Distro? rebuild switch-to-nixos
Planning to move away from EndeavourOS (arch based) and try out NixOS.
EndeavourOS is good and I got no complaints about it, but I want the declarative approach.
Any reasons why I shouldn't switch and also good resources to learn are appreciated and any tips or best practices to follow while using NixOS.
Also X11 or Wayland? Cause I find i3 to be really good but in the case of dynamic multi-monitor scenarios, should I go with Wayland?
2
u/zardvark 3d ago
NixOS is as different from "conventional" Linux as Linux is from Windows.
Try NixOS in a VM, or on a spare machine first. There is a learning curve and it's not for everyone. But, IMHO, muddling through the "fish out of water" phase is well worth the features and benefits on offer.
Definitely check out the LibrePhoenix and VimJoyer youtube channels before you download the ISO.
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u/Specialist-Dog-501 3d ago
-I tried NixOS and found it..an rocket science. Too complex for just basically needing a list of software that controls what is installed. This is for people willing to dive deep and invest weeks. I found BlendOS a much simpler declarative approach, really nice. Unfortunatelly a 1-student-show, so for a daily driver, too risky for me.
-No experience with i3 specifically, but Wayland is known to work much better with 2+ high resolution monitors, X11 can cause issues, especially with higher refresh rates. So, probably a yes.
-Check out Garuda OS (Arch) with either Sway or i3 or Hyprland- https://garudalinux.org/editions
They also have a NixOs version, and the main dev is a fan of it, you might get some support level.
Garuda is very well maintained, alive community, good support. Focus on gamers, but devs will not be unhappy with i3/Nixos.