In September 2021, Joshua Strobl, then Solus’s experience lead, proposed exploring an alternative software ecosystem built around Enlightenment Foundation Libraries (EFL), amid concerns he expressed about GTK4 and GNOME’s direction. It was a proposal, not proof that Solus had decided to leave GTK or had adopted an EFL-based desktop. Strobl’s page now warns that statements about plans for or by Solus are outdated, and a January 2022 Solus forum post said the team would wait before committing to EFL.
What did the 2021 Solus proposal say?
In his September 14, 2021 post, “Building an Alternative Ecosystem”, Strobl raised the question: “Do we still build Budgie and Solus software with GTK4 and beyond?” He argued for considering an alternative ecosystem and said he would pursue moving Koto, a Solus application, from GTK4 to EFL.
His stated reasons were dissatisfaction with GTK4’s state and concerns about GNOME’s plans for theming and the future direction of GTK. Those were Strobl’s views in a historical proposal, not an independent finding that GTK4 or GNOME was unsuitable for Solus.
Was Solus’s move to EFL completed?
The available evidence describes investigation, not a completed migration. In a September 6, 2021 Koto development diary, Strobl said GTK4-based Koto was officially on hold. He listed experimentation with EFL+C and investigation of Rust bindings as work he planned to pursue to help inform Solus’s next steps. That does not establish that Koto was migrated or that Solus shipped an EFL desktop.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
#1 Best Overall
- Powerful Linux Laptop: This IdeaPad Slim 3 Laptop comes pre-installed with Ubuntu Linux, offering fast performance, robust security, and a clean, user-friendly experience. Enjoy full customization, seamless hardware compatibility, and access to thousands of open-source apps. Whether you're working, creating, or coding, it's built to keep up with everything you do.
- A Multitasking Master: The latest AMD Ryzen 7 5825U processor (up to 4.5 GHz) delivers powerful performance with 8 cores and 16 threads for smooth multitasking. Integrated AMD Radeon Graphics provide crisp visuals for streaming, browsing, photo editing, and casual gaming. With smart machine intelligence, it adapts to your needs for a fast, responsive experience.
- 15.6" Full HD Display: The IdeaPad Slim 3 boasts an 88% screen-to-body ratio for a floating, edge-to-edge visual experience. TÜV Low Blue Light certification reduces eye strain, making it perfect for long work or study sessions.
- Military-Grade Durability: The smart IdeaPad Slim 3 combines portability and durability, letting you work, study, and play on the go. With a profile 10% slimmer than the previous generation, it's lightweight yet military-grade rugged, ready for anything, anywhere.
- Versatile Connectivity: Enjoy the security of a built-in webcam with a privacy shutter. Connect effortlessly with multiple ports: 2x USB A, 1x USB C, 1x HDMI, 1x SD Card Reader, 1x Headphone/Microphone combo. Bundle comes with Stylus Pen, 256GB Portable SSD and 5-in-1 Docking Station.
In a January 17, 2022 Solus forum roadmap discussion, the team expressed optimism about EFL but said it would wait before committing. That is a later indication of interest, not confirmation of adoption.
What does the proposal mean for Solus today?
Strobl’s original page now carries an explicit warning: “Statements asserting any plans for or by Solus should be considered outdated.” The proposal should therefore be read as a record of his 2021 position, not as Solus’s current roadmap.
Rank #2
- Intel Core i5-10210U (up to 4.2GHz) - 1TB PCIe NVMe + 1TB HDD - 32GB DDR4 SDRAM
- 17.3" HD+ (1600x900) Display, Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Built in HD 720p Webcam with Microphone - Bluetooth Version4.2
- I/O Ports: 2x USB 3.1 (Data Only), 1x USB 2.0, 1x HDMI, 1x Headphone/Microphone Combo Jack
- Linux Mint Cinnamon 64-Bit - 6-Row Keyboard w/ Full Numberpad
It is also important not to treat Solus, Budgie, and the former Solus team as one continuing decision-maker. The forum discussion records Strobl’s departure from Solus and Budgie’s separation. The cited material does not establish a current Solus commitment to replace GTK with EFL.
What are Enlightenment and EFL?
Enlightenment and EFL are related but not interchangeable names. The Enlightenment Project’s overview describes Enlightenment as a desktop shell: software for tasks such as launching applications, managing windows, and system operations. EFL is the broader library ecosystem associated with the project. Enlightenment began as an X11 window manager in the 1990s and later grew to include EFL and applications.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Rank #3
- Intel Core i5-1335U Processor (12M Cache, 12 Threads, up to 4.6 GHz) - 256GB Solid State Drive - 16GB DDR4 SDRAM
- 15.6" FHD (1920x1080) Non-Touch Anti-Glare Display - Intel UHD 620 Integrated Graphics - Stereo Speakers
- 720p HD Webcam with Privacy Shutter. Integrated Microphone - Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC (2x2) 8265, Bluetooth Version 4.2
- I/O Ports: 2x USB 3.0, 1x USB 3.1 Type-C 3.1, Headphone/Mic Combo Port, 4-in-1 Card Reader, HDMI, Kensington Mini-Lock Slot
- Linux Mint (Cinnamon) 64-Bit - Keyboard with Full NumberPad - Fast Charging
The project’s Wayland page describes EFL applications running as Wayland clients and work toward a standalone Wayland compositor. This is upstream project context; it does not show that Solus adopted EFL or distributed an EFL-based desktop.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What can be said about EFL’s versions and Solus use?
The Enlightenment Project’s download page lists EFL 1.28.1 and Enlightenment 0.27.1 as its latest source releases on the page checked for this article. Those are upstream page listings, not evidence of the versions Solus used. The cited sources do not establish a Solus EFL release or a current toolkit choice for Solus, so there is no sound basis here for comparing live Solus GTK and EFL options.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 12th Intel Alder Lake N95 Processor – The GMKtec G3 S Mini PC is powered by the 12th Gen Intel N95 processor with 4 cores, 4 threads, 6MB cache and a burst frequency up to 3.4GHz. Compared with N100/N5105/N5100/N5095, the N95 delivers up to 36% overall performance improvement. Perfect for routine tasks, office work, and home entertainment, this compact mini desktop is more convenient than traditional bulky PCs.
- 8GB RAM & 256GB SSD Storage – Pre-installed with 8GB DDR4 memory and a fast 256GB M.2 2242 SSD, the G3 S mini desktop offers quicker startup, smoother multitasking, and faster file transfers. Enjoy seamless performance whether you’re working on multiple applications, browsing, or streaming content.
- Rich Interfaces & Connectivity – The G3 S mini computer comes equipped with USB 3.2 (up to 10Gbps), dual HDMI 2.0 (4K@60Hz), and a 3.5mm audio jack. With support for WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, and Gigabit Ethernet (RJ45 1000MbE), it connects easily with monitors, projectors, printers, office equipment, and other peripherals, making it versatile for both home and business use.
- Dual 4K Display Support – Featuring upgraded Intel UHD Graphics (up to 1000MHz), the G3 S supports 4K video playback and AV1 decoding for a smooth viewing experience. With dual HDMI outputs, you can connect two 4K@60Hz displays simultaneously, enabling efficient multitasking for work and entertainment.
- GMKtec WARRANTY - GMKtec offers a 1-year limited GMKtec's warranty for each mini PC, starting from the date of the purchase. All defects due to design and workmanship are covered. With a professional after sales team always ready to attend to your needs, you can simply relax and enjoy your mini PC.
Rank #4
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
