Omarchy

Omarchy is a Linux distribution built around a specific set of choices: a particular terminal setup, editor, shell tools, and desktop environment, all pre-configured and documented. It's aimed at developers who want a working, cohesive Linux desktop without assembling the pieces themselves. Instead of a general-purpose distro you configure from scratch, Omarchy ships with opinions already baked in about themes, hotkeys, applications, and workflow.

The project is maintained by DHH and documented through an extensive manual covering everything from first boot to advanced configuration. If you've used Mac or Windows and want a fast on-ramp to a productive Linux setup, or you're already on Linux but tired of hand-rolling your dotfiles and window manager config, this is built for that audience.

Key features

• Curated desktop experience: preconfigured themes, top bar, navigation, and hotkeys instead of a blank slate.
• Built-in terminal and editor setup: Neovim, shell tools, and shell functions come configured out of the box.
• Development tooling included: a documented set of development tools and TUIs/GUIs ready to use.
• AI tooling section: dedicated manual coverage for AI-related tools in the distribution.
• Unified clipboard and history: shared clipboard behavior across the desktop.
• Screenshots, recording, and dictation: text extraction and screen capture tools are part of the default setup.
• Theming system: switch themes and build custom ones following the documented theming guide.
• Hardware and system coverage: guidance for monitors, keyboard/mouse/trackpad, networking, sleep, and hardware authentication.
• System snapshots: documented support for rolling back or restoring system state.
• Dual boot and unattended install paths: manual sections cover both scenarios explicitly.
• Mac migration guide: a manual section specifically for users coming from Mac or Windows.

Ideal use cases

Omarchy fits developers who want a Linux desktop that's already decided on a terminal, editor, theme, and toolset, and who'd rather follow a manual than build a config from zero. It also fits people switching from Mac or Windows who want a documented path into Linux daily-driving, including gaming and PDF handling, without piecing together their own window manager setup.

It's a good match if you value a consistent, opinionated environment over granular control of every component, and if you're comfortable adopting someone else's defaults for themes, hotkeys, and app choices. It's less of a fit if you need a minimal or headless server distro, want to pick your own desktop environment and window manager from scratch, or need long-term support guarantees typical of enterprise distros. If your workflow depends on a specific non-included toolchain and you're unwilling to adapt to Omarchy's defaults, a general-purpose distro will likely serve you better.

Installation

The README doesn't include a full command-line installer here; setup instructions and the installation image live on the Omarchy website and in the manual's Getting Started page. The general path documented in the manual is:

1. Visit omarchy.org and follow the install instructions for creating or downloading the Omarchy install media.
2. Boot into the installer and follow the on-screen setup.
3. Once installed, use the Omarchy CLI documented in the manual to manage updates, themes, and configuration.
4. Consult Dual Boot Install if you're keeping an existing OS, or Unattended Installs for automated setups.
5. After install, check Updates and Dotfiles for how to keep the system current and how configuration files are organized.

For troubleshooting during or after install, the manual has a dedicated Troubleshooting page and an FAQ section.