Documentation Index
Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://mintlify.com/xarblu/kwin-effects-better-blur-dx/llms.txt
Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.
Better Blur DX is available on the Arch User Repository (AUR) with packages maintained by D3SOX.
Available Packages
There are separate packages for Wayland and X11, each with stable release and git versions:
- Stable releases: Built from tagged versions
- Git packages: Track the
main branch with the latest development changes
Installation
Wayland (Recommended)
X11
Install Stable Release
Install the stable version for Wayland:yay -S kwin-effects-better-blur-dx
Or Install Git Version
Alternatively, install the development version that tracks the main branch:yay -S kwin-effects-better-blur-dx-git
The -git package provides the latest features but may be less stable than tagged releases.
Install Stable Release
Install the stable version for X11:yay -S kwin-effects-better-blur-dx-x11
Or Install Git Version
Alternatively, install the development version:yay -S kwin-effects-better-blur-dx-x11-git
X11 support is deprecated and not actively tested. Wayland is recommended for the best experience.
After Installation
Enable the Effect
Open System Settings > Desktop Effects, disable any existing blur effects, and enable Better Blur DX.
Restart KWin (if updating)
If you’re updating an existing installation, restart KWin to load the new version:# Log out and log back in, or:
kwin_wayland --replace &
# For X11:
kwin_x11 --replace &
This is only required for updates. Fresh installations don’t need a KWin restart.
System Upgrades
Important: After upgrading Plasma or KWin, you must reinstall the package.The effect is compiled against a specific KWin version and will stop working if KWin is updated. Simply reinstall the package after system upgrades:yay -S kwin-effects-better-blur-dx
Troubleshooting
If the effect doesn’t appear after installation:
- Verify the package is installed:
pacman -Qi kwin-effects-better-blur-dx
- Ensure the default blur effect is disabled in System Settings
- Check KWin logs:
journalctl --user -u plasma-kwin_wayland.service -f
- Try restarting KWin or logging out and back in
Next Steps
Learn how to configure Better Blur DX in the Configuration section.