The Nitrux team has announced the release of Nitrux 5.0.0, a major update that brings a new desktop experience, system optimizations, and updated core components. This version replaces KDE Plasma with Hyprland, marking a new direction for the distribution.

A New Direction with Hyprland

With version 5.0.0, Nitrux transitions completely from KDE Plasma to Hyprland, a modern Wayland compositor. The developers describe this as more than a desktop switch—it reflects a clearer design philosophy. Nitrux aims to be defined by its architecture, not aesthetics. It targets users who value configuration, control, and a streamlined environment.

The team emphasizes that Nitrux is not meant to mimic other systems. Instead, it rewards curiosity and understanding. This release establishes a foundation for a more intentional and consistent user experience.

Key Changes and Improvements

Nitrux 5.0.0 introduces several updates, new tools, and removals as part of its realignment.

Major Updates

• Hyprland replaces KDE Plasma as the main desktop.
• OpenRC 0.63 improves system service management.
• MauiKit and Maui Apps 4.0.2 bring the latest app updates.
• Liquorix Kernel 6.17.7 powers the standard ISO.
• NX Overlayroot strengthens system immutability.
• NX AppHub and AppBoxes simplify user-level app management.
• Flatpak 1.16.1, PipeWire 1.4.8, NetworkManager 1.52.1, and fwupd 2.0.16 deliver improved compatibility and reliability.

Other core tools like Python 3.13.7, OpenSSL 3.5.3, and Qt 6.8.2 have also been updated.

New Additions

Nitrux now includes several new utilities and subsystems:

• Hyprland utilities, Waybar, and Crystal Dock for a refined Wayland experience.
• greetd and QtGreet for lightweight login management.
• nwg-look and nwg-displays for GTK and display configuration.
• NX AppHub CLI for rootless app management.
• Clipvault clipboard manager and Sway Notification Center.
• Gamescope for gaming and Grimshot for screenshots.
• Ananicy-cpp for better CPU and I/O scheduling.

The release also introduces a CachyOS-patched kernel variant for advanced users, optimized for high performance systems.

Removed Components

To align with its new philosophy, Nitrux 5.0.0 removes several legacy components:

• KDE Plasma, KWin, and SDDM have been deprecated.
• Tools like Waydroid, Tor, Fcitx, KDEConnect, and Touchegg have been removed.
• Support for virtual machine environments and legacy drivers such as Hyper-V, EVDI, and DisplayLink has also been dropped.

These removals are part of a move toward a focused, hardware-oriented Linux system.

Download Nitrux 5.0.0

Two ISO images are available for download:

• nitrux-contemporary-cachy-nvopen — for NVIDIA hardware, includes the open-source NVIDIA kernel module and CachyOS kernel.
• nitrux-contemporary-liquorix-mesa — for AMD, Intel, and non-NVIDIA systems.

Users can verify the authenticity of downloads using the project’s SHA512 checksums and GPG signatures. Note that the signing key changes bi-monthly.

The developers recommend a fresh installation rather than an upgrade from older versions, due to the major system transitions in this release.

A Step Toward Intentional Design

The Nitrux 5.0.0 release is more than an update—it’s a reset. It simplifies the system, emphasizes immutability, and focuses on giving users reliable control. By removing legacy elements and embracing Hyprland, the team is shaping a Linux distribution that values intent, precision, and clarity over imitation.

For full release details, changelog, and known issues, visit the official Nitrux announcement.