linux-cachyos is a Linux kernel distribution that provides multiple CPU scheduler variants and performance optimizations for Arch Linux systems.
The project addresses the need for kernel tuning tailored to different workloads by offering several scheduler options built on top of upstream stable releases. The BORE scheduler targets interactive workloads and gaming by prioritizing responsiveness, EEVDF serves general-purpose computing with balanced performance, and BMQ optimizes for throughput-oriented tasks. Beyond scheduler selection, the kernels incorporate compiler optimizations including Clang Thin LTO and AutoFDO, alongside carefully selected patches for improved responsiveness and throughput across different use cases.
Developers should choose this distribution if they want to experiment with alternative CPU schedulers without maintaining a custom kernel build. The project suits users running Arch Linux who are willing to test different scheduler variants to find the best fit for their specific workload. Specialized variants address particular needs: the hardened kernel adds security patches, the LTS version provides long-term stability, the real-time variant enables deterministic scheduling, and the deckify variant targets handheld gaming devices. The tool also provides multiple architecture optimizations including x86-64, x86-64-v3, x86-64-v4, and znver4 to match different CPU capabilities.
The project maintains active development with regular kernel updates tracking upstream releases, offers multiple specialized variants addressing distinct use cases from gaming to server deployments, and provides clear documentation for installation and CPU compatibility checking. The repository includes support for emerging scheduler technologies through SCX scheduler integration and extends beyond Arch Linux with builds available for other distributions.
