If you’re fed up with Windows 11 or simply curious about the Linux world, then Pop!_OS might be the perfect starting point for you.
Developed by System76, a company known for its Linux-based computers, Pop!_OS is a sleek, powerful Linux distribution built with productivity, usability, and even gaming in mind. Yes — you read that right — this is a Linux distro that’s Steam-ready, supports NVIDIA and AMD GPUs, and feels just right for modern use.
In this guide, we’ll walk through how to:
- Try Pop!_OS without installing it
- Perform a clean install
- Explore its interface and features
- Customize settings for productivity or gaming
So, whether you’re a developer, gamer, or someone tired of Windows updates, let’s dive in.
🚀 What Makes Pop!_OS Special?
Before jumping into installation, here’s what makes Pop!_OS stand out:
- Designed for both work and play
- Supports NVIDIA/AMD GPUs out-of-the-box
- Steam-ready for Linux gaming
- Modern UI, tiling window manager, dark/light modes
- Excellent performance on older hardware
- Built-in Pop!_Shop for easy app installation
And yes — you can run it directly from a USB drive (Live mode) to test it out without making any changes to your PC.
💾 How to Try or Install Pop!_OS
Step 1: Download the ISO
Visit the official site here:
👉 Download Pop!_OS
Choose either:
- Intel/AMD version (most common)
- NVIDIA version (if you have an NVIDIA GPU)
Step 2: Create a Bootable USB
Use tools like:
Flash the Pop!_OS ISO to a USB drive.
💡 Pro Tip: Use a USB 3.0 stick for faster performance in live mode.
🧪 Step 3: Boot Into Pop!_OS (Live Mode)
Once your USB is ready:
- Reboot your PC.
- Enter BIOS/boot menu (usually F12, ESC, or DEL).
- Choose your USB drive.
Pop!_OS will boot into Live Mode — a non-permanent version running entirely from RAM. You can explore the interface, apps, and features without touching your existing files.
If you like what you see, go ahead with the installation.
💻 Step 4: Installing Pop!_OS
Once you’re ready to install:
- Choose your Language
- Select Keyboard Layout
- Clean Install vs. Custom Partition
- Clean Install will wipe the drive.
- Custom Partition lets you dual boot alongside Windows.
- Choose the drive for installation and click Erase and Install.
- Set your Username and Password.
- Optionally, encrypt your drive (like BitLocker).
⚠️ Caution: Clean install will erase all data on the selected drive. Backup important files first!
Installation takes about 5 minutes, and once complete, remove the USB drive and restart.
🧩 First Boot & Initial Setup
Once you log in, Pop!_OS will guide you through:
- Dock preferences (auto-hide, full width, etc.)
- Top bar settings
- App switcher and gesture tips (for touch screens)
- Dark or Light Mode
- Location services and time zone
- Online account sync (optional)
It’s a smooth onboarding experience that feels modern and user-friendly.
🛍️ Installing Apps via Pop!_Shop
Pop!_Shop is like a Linux version of the Microsoft Store.
You can:
- Browse by category
- Check out featured apps (like Steam)
- Install apps with one click
For example, to install the Nuclear music player:
- Open Pop!_Shop
- Search “Nuclear”
- Click Install
- Open once installation completes
You also have access to apps via terminal (APT) and other repositories like Flatpak or Snap if needed.
🧠 Exploring Pop!_OS Features
Let’s take a look at the desktop environment and tools you’ll find pre-installed:
📁 File Manager
- Similar to Windows File Explorer
- Quick access to Desktop, Documents, Downloads
- “Other locations” to explore drives and networks
🧰 System Tools
- System Monitor: Like Task Manager
- Disk Usage: Visualize storage space
- Startup Applications: Manage background programs
🧮 Pre-installed Apps
- LibreOffice Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint alternatives)
- Image Viewer, Document Scanner, Archive Manager
- Terminal for command-line lovers
- Pop!_Shop for app management
⚙️ Settings Panel
The Settings app in Pop!_OS is feature-rich and organized. Categories include:
- Network, Bluetooth, Sound, Display, Power
- Keyboard & Mouse Settings
- Region & Language
- Users (add admin or standard accounts)
- Default Apps & Startup
- Date & Time, About, and Recovery
All options are intuitive, and familiar to Windows users.
🎮 Gaming on Pop!_OS
Pop!_OS is one of the best Linux distros for gaming. Why?
- Pre-configured NVIDIA driver support
- Steam is just one click away in Pop!_Shop
- Supports Proton & Wine for Windows games
- Works well with gaming hardware (controllers, headsets)
💡 You can also install Lutris or Heroic Games Launcher to expand your gaming library even further.
🎨 Customizing Pop!_OS
You can right-click on the desktop to:
- Change background wallpapers
- Create new folders
- Access terminal
- Rearrange icons
Dark and light modes are available out of the box. You can also explore GNOME extensions and themes if you want a completely unique look.
❓ FAQs
Q1. Can I dual-boot Pop!_OS with Windows?
Yes! Use the “Custom Partition” option during installation and install it on a separate partition.
Q2. Is Pop!_OS beginner-friendly?
Absolutely. It’s one of the most polished Linux distros for new users, especially those coming from Windows.
Q3. Can I game on Pop!_OS?
Yes! It’s optimized for gaming, with Steam and GPU drivers built-in.
Q4. Is Pop!_OS better than Ubuntu?
Depends on your needs. Pop!_OS offers a more modern interface, better GPU support, and tiling window manager by default.
Q5. Is it open-source and free?
Yes. 100% free and open-source. No ads, no trackers.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This article is for educational and informational purposes only. Always back up your data before installing a new operating system. Gaming performance may vary based on your hardware.
🏷️ Tags:
Linux alternative, Pop OS review, Linux for gaming, System76, dual boot Linux, Pop OS installation guide, Steam on Linux, Windows alternative, beginner Linux distro
🔖 Hashtags:
#PopOS #LinuxForGamers #System76 #WindowsAlternative #LinuxTutorial #SteamOnLinux #LinuxGaming #OpenSource #PopOSTutorial
✅ Final Thoughts
If you’re tired of frequent Windows updates, slow performance, or just want to explore something new — Pop!_OS is a fantastic Linux distro that offers style, speed, and gaming support all in one.
Whether you’re a power user or complete beginner, it offers the tools and polish to help you thrive. Try it in Live Mode or go all in with a clean install — either way, you might never look back.
