Anatase vs Pop!_OS
Anatase: One immutable Fedora image for desktop, handheld, and gaming. Pop!_OS: A developer-friendly desktop with built-in tiling. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersPop!_OSPop!_OS is rated beginner; Anatase is intermediate.
- GamingAnataseAnatase ships gaming-oriented defaults or current drivers.
- Older hardwarePop!_OSPop!_OS needs about 4 GB of RAM versus 8 GB.
- Latest softwareAnataseAnatase uses a atomic model; Pop!_OS is stable.
- Long-term stabilityPop!_OSPop!_OS changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | Anatase | Pop!_OS |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | Not ranked | #13 |
| Latest version | — | 24.04 (Dec 11, 2025) |
| Based on | Fedora | Ubuntu LTS |
| Release model | Atomic | Stable |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, Plasma Mobile, Gamemode | COSMIC |
| Package management | Flatpak · Spaces (Arch, Fedora, Ubuntu, Kali) | APT · Flatpak |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 8 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | — | 2017 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Gaming, Immutable systems, Development, Everyday use | Development, Gaming, Everyday use |
Key differences
- Anatase is based on Fedora, while Pop!_OS is based on Ubuntu LTS.
- Anatase follows a atomic release model; Pop!_OS is stable.
- Anatase ships KDE Plasma, Plasma Mobile, Gamemode; Pop!_OS ships COSMIC.
- Software comes from Flatpak · Spaces (Arch, Fedora, Ubuntu, Kali) on Anatase and APT · Flatpak on Pop!_OS.
- We suggest about 8 GB of RAM for Anatase and 4 GB for Pop!_OS.
- Anatase is best for intermediate users; Pop!_OS for beginner users.
Choose Anatase if…
- one image for desktops, laptops, handhelds, HTPCs, and NVIDIA
- spaces run Arch, Fedora, Ubuntu, and Kali packages beside the base
- gamemode with 2X frame generation and VRR, HDR, and frame-rate controls
Brand-new project led by a single developer
Full Anatase profileChoose Pop!_OS if…
- nVIDIA image with the proprietary driver preinstalled
- optional auto-tiling built into the desktop
- tested on System76 hardware
COSMIC is young; expect rough edges and missing extensions
Full Pop!_OS profileAnatase vs Pop!_OS: FAQ
Is Anatase better than Pop!_OS?
Neither is better for everyone. Anatase is the stronger pick for gaming, latest software; Pop!_OS for beginners, older hardware, long-term stability.
Which uses less RAM, Anatase or Pop!_OS?
Pop!_OS is lighter: we suggest about 4 GB versus 8 GB. The desktop you choose affects memory use more than the distribution itself.
Is Anatase based on Pop!_OS?
No. Anatase is based on Fedora; Pop!_OS is based on Ubuntu LTS.
Can I switch from Anatase to Pop!_OS without losing files?
Back up your home folder first. If /home is on a separate partition you can reinstall without formatting it, but a clean install with restored backups is safest.