In 2025, developers are increasingly seeking optimized workflows to enhance productivity and streamline their daily tasks. One such example is a modern development stack built around Arch Linux, EndeavourOS, and Hyprland. This setup offers unparalleled flexibility, cutting-edge tools, and seamless integration for developers who prioritize customization and efficiency. Here’s a detailed look at how this stack is structured and why it stands out.

Why the Change?

The transition to this stack was driven by the need for a more customizable and efficient environment. Moving from a dual boot of Windows 11 and Ubuntu i3 to Windows 11 paired with EndeavourOS (an Arch-based distribution) and Hyprland brought several benefits:

• Rolling Release Updates: Arch Linux ensures continuous access to the latest software versions.
• Hyprland Window Manager: A sleek and modern tiling window manager optimized for advanced workflows.
• Infinite Customization: The combination of EndeavourOS/Arch Linux and Hyprland allows developers to tailor every aspect of their environment.

To maintain visual consistency across tools, the Catppuccin Macchiato theme was chosen as the primary aesthetic, with a Dark Theme fallback for unsupported applications.

CLI Stack: Everything in the Terminal

Core Tools

The terminal is at the heart of this workflow. Key tools include:

• Kitty: A fast, feature-rich terminal emulator with extensive customization options.
• ZSH: An advanced shell enhanced with OhMyZsh and Powerlevel10k themes.
• Bat: A modern alternative to cat with syntax highlighting.
• Btop++: A visually intuitive system performance monitor.
• Postgrest: A terminal-based API testing tool.
• Harlequin: A terminal SQL IDE for database management.
• Superfile: A terminal-based file manager.
• Better-commits: A tool for crafting meaningful Git commit messages.
• FastFetch: Displays system hardware and OS details stylishly.
• Hyprshot: A lightweight screenshot utility for terminal users.
• Cava: Real-time audio visualization in the terminal.
• Eww Widgets: Standalone widgets for enhanced functionality.

Strengths

These CLI tools enable a streamlined workflow focused on speed and integration. Customization options further enhance usability, making them ideal for developers who prefer working directly in the terminal.

GUI Tools: Modern and Ergonomic

While the CLI is powerful, some tasks benefit from graphical interfaces. Key GUI applications include:

• Firefox: A customizable browser optimized for performance.
• Nautilus: A graphical file manager for quick operations.
• Obsidian: A robust note-taking tool for organizing ideas.
• Blueman: Simplifies Bluetooth device management.
• OBS Studio: Ideal for recording tutorials or sessions.
• KeePassXC: Secure password management software.
• LibreOffice: An open-source office suite for document editing.
• Postman: GUI-based API testing tool complementing terminal alternatives.
• Spotify: For music streaming during work sessions.
• Wireshark: A leading network traffic analyzer.

Strengths

These GUI tools complement the CLI by providing intuitive interfaces where visual interaction is more effective.

Arch/Hyprland Tools: The Core of the Environment

The combination of Arch Linux and Hyprland provides the foundation of this stack. Essential tools include:

• Wofi: A lightweight application launcher.
• SDDM: A session manager for streamlined login processes.
• Hyprpick: A minimalist color picker tool.
• Hyprpanel: A sleek taskbar designed for Hyprland environments.
• Hyprlock: Session locking utility for security.
• Imv: A lightweight image viewer.

Strengths

These tools are deeply integrated into Hyprland’s ecosystem, offering fluidity, speed, and extensive customization options that boost productivity.

IDE Setup: Flexibility Across Projects

This stack supports both lightweight and large-scale development projects with:

1. NeoVim & NvChad: Perfect for quick edits or smaller projects directly in the terminal while retaining full control over configurations.
2. JetBrains IDEs: Comprehensive solutions like PhpStorm or IntelliJ IDEA provide robust features for larger projects.

Strengths

This dual setup ensures flexibility—developers can switch between lightweight efficiency and feature-rich environments depending on project requirements.

Development Stack: Comprehensive Toolset

A well-rounded development stack powers backend and frontend workflows:

• Nginx: HTTP server for web applications.
• PHP (Composer, Symfony CLI): Essential tools for backend development in PHP ecosystems.
• NVM (npm, yarn): Node.js version manager supporting JavaScript/TypeScript projects.
• Redis & MariaDB: Database management solutions with caching capabilities.
• ElasticSearch & Kibana: For advanced search functionality and data visualization.
• Maildev: An email server emulator for testing purposes.

Strengths

This comprehensive stack covers all aspects of development—backend processing, frontend scripting, database management, caching, search indexing, and email testing.

Other Essentials

Additional tools enhance productivity further:

1. Nerd Fonts (Cascadia + Fira): Optimized fonts designed specifically for coding environments in terminals or IDEs.
2. GitHub Copilot: AI-powered assistance integrated into NeoVim, JetBrains IDEs, and other tools to boost coding efficiency.

Conclusion

This 2025 development stack represents a modern approach to optimizing workflows for developers who value customization, performance, and flexibility. By leveraging Arch Linux’s rolling release model alongside EndeavourOS’s user-friendly features and Hyprland’s advanced window management capabilities, this setup offers a seamless environment tailored to meet diverse development needs.

Whether you’re managing complex backend systems or working on quick frontend fixes, this stack ensures that every tool is purpose-built to enhance productivity while maintaining an aesthetic appeal. For those ready to embrace this configuration, it promises both technical mastery and an enjoyable workflow experience.

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