Solus 4.8 “Opportunity” is here, and after two weeks of daily-driving it on everything from a high-end gaming desktop to an old laptop, I can confidently say: yes, this independent, desktop-first Linux distro is not only still relevant in 2025; it’s one of the most polished and enjoyable experiences you can get. With Linux 6.17, a completely revamped package backend, Wayland-by-default across all editions, and a level of out-of-the-box refinement that rivals (and often beats) Ubuntu and Fedora, Solus 4.8 proves that a small, focused team can still deliver something truly special. If you’re tired of bloat, corporate influence, or endless tweaking, this might just be your next daily driver. Full in-depth review inside.