Tips for Better Gaming Performance on Linux

Linux has become a powerful platform for gaming thanks to Proton, Steam Play, and native ports. However, to get the best performance, you’ll need to make some system tweaks. Here are practical tips to boost gaming performance on Linux.

1. Keep Graphics Drivers Updated

Your GPU drivers are crucial for smooth gaming. Always install the latest stable drivers available for your distribution.

• For NVIDIA, proprietary drivers generally provide the best performance.

• For AMD and Intel, the open-source Mesa drivers are typically the most reliable and performant.

2. Use a Gaming-Friendly Kernel

Some kernels are optimized for low latency and gaming performance.

• Liquorix Kernel and Zen Kernel are popular options among Linux gamers.

• These kernels reduce latency and can provide smoother frame rates.

3. Enable Game Mode

Many Linux distros support tools like Feral Interactive’s GameMode, which automatically adjusts CPU governors, I/O priority, and kernel settings when a game launches.

• Some games (like those on Steam) detect and use it automatically.

• You can also run non-Steam games with GameMode manually.

4. Optimize Proton and Wine

For Windows-only titles:

• Use Proton GE (Glorious Eggroll), a community build of Proton with performance patches.

• Keep Wine and Proton updated for better compatibility and performance.

• Use tools like ProtonUp-Qt to manage Proton versions easily.

5. Enable Vulkan

Vulkan generally outperforms OpenGL on modern GPUs.

• Check if your game supports Vulkan and enable it in the graphics settings.

• Ensure the Vulkan drivers for your GPU are installed.

6. Close Background Applications

Just like on Windows, closing unnecessary apps frees up CPU, RAM, and GPU resources.

• Use your system monitor to identify heavy background processes.

• Consider disabling startup applications you don’t need while gaming.

7. Manage CPU Governors

Linux allows you to control CPU frequency scaling.

• Switch to the performance governor for maximum clock speeds during gaming.

• Tools like cpupower or CoreCtrl make this easier.

8. Use an SSD for Games

Installing games on an SSD greatly reduces loading times, especially for large titles.

9. Tweak Compositors

Desktop compositors can sometimes reduce FPS.

• Disable or tweak compositors (like Mutter, KWin, or Picom) while gaming.

• Some distros have a “gaming mode” that automatically suspends compositors.

10. Monitor Performance

Use tools like MangoHud to track FPS, frame times, and system resource usage.
This helps identify bottlenecks and fine-tune settings for smoother gameplay.