> I picked CachyOS rather than a better-known distro like Ubuntu because it’s optimized for modern hardware

So this isn't a usual comparison, as the vast majority of users will choose Ubuntu, Fedora, or Mint. CachyOS is also a new distro, meaning it won't last long (most distributions, like small businesses, only last a few years). It's also Arch-based, meaning the user is going to get constant updates, which leads to problems. Finally, Cachy is optimized for speed and security, not hardware.

> First challenge: My mouse buttons don’t work. I can move the cursor, but can’t click on anything. I try plugging in a mouse (without unplugging the first one), same deal. Not a major issue; I can get around fine with just the keyboard

And this is where I stop reading

If you hold out for a few more paragraphs until he gets past the installer there is closure:

The issue is that he was using an obscure gaming mouse, and the solution was to use a different mouse.