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Lutris vs PureRef

Professional comparison and analysis to help you choose the right software solution for your needs.

Lutris icon
Lutris
PureRef icon
PureRef

Lutris vs PureRef: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

Lutris: Lutris is an open source gaming platform for Linux that allows users to manage and play their games across multiple gaming platforms. It integrates with existing game libraries like Steam and GOG and enables installing and launching games with a single click.

PureRef: PureRef is a free, lightweight application for Windows that helps artists and designers quickly view visual references without cluttering their workspace. It's useful for keeping photos, drawings, webpages, etc. easily accessible while working on graphics, illustrations, presentations, documents, and more.

Both tools serve their respective audiences. Compare the features, pricing, and user ratings above to determine which best fits your needs.

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature Lutris PureRef
Sugggest Score — —
Category Gaming Software Photos & Graphics
Pricing Open Source Free

Product Overview

Lutris
Lutris

Description: Lutris is an open source gaming platform for Linux that allows users to manage and play their games across multiple gaming platforms. It integrates with existing game libraries like Steam and GOG and enables installing and launching games with a single click.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

PureRef
PureRef

Description: PureRef is a free, lightweight application for Windows that helps artists and designers quickly view visual references without cluttering their workspace. It's useful for keeping photos, drawings, webpages, etc. easily accessible while working on graphics, illustrations, presentations, documents, and more.

Type: software

Pricing: Free

Key Features Comparison

Lutris
Lutris Features
  • Open source platform for gaming on Linux
  • Integrates with existing game libraries like Steam, GOG, Epic Games Store, etc.
  • Automatic game installation & configuration
  • Supports running Windows games through Wine & Proton compatibility layers
  • Online accounts sync gaming libraries across multiple devices
  • Community-driven game compatibility database
  • Controller configuration support
  • Supports native Linux games, emulators, and browser gaming
PureRef
PureRef Features
  • Tabbed interface to organize references
  • Resizable panels
  • Zoom and pan images
  • Minimal UI
  • Keyboard shortcuts
  • Search references
  • Fullscreen mode
  • Portable app
  • Dark mode

Pros & Cons Analysis

Lutris
Lutris
Pros
  • Unified interface for all games
  • Simplifies gaming on Linux significantly
  • No need to manually configure games
  • Large library of supported games
  • Active development and community support
Cons
  • Limited support for anti-cheat protected multiplayer games
  • Not all Windows games work flawlessly
  • Can be complex for new Linux users
  • Requires using Wine/Proton compatibility layers
PureRef
PureRef
Pros
  • Lightweight and fast
  • Clean and simple interface
  • Easy to use
  • Good for quick reference viewing
  • Free with no ads or limitations
Cons
  • Limited features compared to full reference managers
  • No cloud sync
  • Windows only

Pricing Comparison

Lutris
Lutris
  • Open Source
PureRef
PureRef
  • Free

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Learn More About Each Product

Lutris
Lutris
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
PureRef
PureRef
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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