A growing number of PC gamers are making the jump to Linux, driven by ongoing frustrations with Windows and impressive advancements in Linux gaming compatibility. Issues like intrusive advertisements, forced updates disrupting sessions, telemetry tracking, and general system bloat have pushed players more and more towards open source alternatives. At the same time, tools like Valve's Proton have matured to the point where most Steam libraries can run smoothly, often with comparable or even superior performance.
The latest Steam Hardware and Software Survey for December 2025 shows Linux holding steady at 3.19% market share among gamers, following a peak of 3.2% in November. This represents millions of active users, fueled largely by the Steam Deck's popularity and broader desktop adoption. Around the globe, Linux desktop share reached around 4.7% by the end of 2025, according to analytics from sources like StatCounter, marking significant growth from previous years. Here is a look at the growth with a snapshot look from GamingOnLinux:
One standout option gaining traction is CachyOS, an Arch Linux-based distribution optimized for performance. Community reports and benchmarks highlight around 10-15% FPS improvements in various titles compared to stock setups or even Windows, thanks to custom kernels, scheduling tweaks, and reduced overhead. For instance, users have noted smoother gameplay in demanding games like Squad, with lower latency and fewer stutters. CachyOS's focus on gaming-specific packages makes it appealing for those seeking a lightweight, high speed experience without Windows' background processes while gaming.
Steam's Proton compatibility layer plays a central role in this shift. Now in mature versions like Proton 10, it allows thousands of Windows exclusive games to run natively on Linux with minimal configuration and hassle. Many titles achieve performance on par with or exceeding Windows, benefiting from lighter system resources and no telemetry drag. The absence of forced reboots or ads further enhances the appeal for uninterrupted gaming sessions. Some gamers even run it on their Steam Decks to play on the go!
There are more and more real world testimonials that seem to be echoing this trend. Users on forums and social platforms report completing full years on distributions like Ubuntu without regrets, praising the stability and customization. Here is a user that claims they have not used Windows since 2016 and have stuck with Linux since.
That said, the switch is not seamless for everyone and can be a bit of a pain for users. NVIDIA drivers can require extra tweaks for optimal performance, and some applications lack the polish of their Windows counterparts. Anti cheat systems in certain multiplayer games remain a hurdle as well, though progress continues forward. Many newcomers start with dual booting to test the waters before committing fully to Linux.
Looking ahead, 2026 could accelerate this momentum with upcoming hardware like Valve's Steam Machine and potential SteamOS expansions. As Proton support broadens and distros refine user experiences, Linux is positioning itself as a serious contender for gaming rigs.
For gamers tired of Windows' intrusions, the barriers to entry have never been lower tha now. Distributions like CachyOS, Bazzite, and mainstream options such as Ubuntu offer tailored setups that prioritize speed, privacy, and control. Whether for marginal FPS gains or ideological reasons, the Linux gaming ecosystem is thriving and welcoming more converts than ever. Now might be a good time to jump in.
What are your thoughts? Will you be sticking with Windows for now or give it a shot to have a little more peace of mind when gaming? Let us know what you are thinking in the comments below!