Anatase vs SteamOS
Anatase: One immutable Fedora image for desktop, handheld, and gaming. SteamOS: Valve’s console-style Linux for handheld gaming. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersSteamOSSteamOS is rated beginner; Anatase is intermediate.
- GamingTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Older hardwareAnataseAnatase needs about 8 GB of RAM versus 16 GB.
- Latest softwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Long-term stabilityTieBoth are a similar fit here.
Specs compared
| Feature | Anatase | SteamOS |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | Not ranked | #5 |
| Latest version | — | 3 (Mar 1, 2022) |
| Based on | Fedora | Arch Linux |
| Release model | Atomic | Atomic |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, Plasma Mobile, Gamemode | Gaming Mode + KDE Plasma |
| Package management | Flatpak · Spaces (Arch, Fedora, Ubuntu, Kali) | Flatpak (Discover) |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 8 GB+ | 16 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | — | 2013 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Gaming, Immutable systems, Development, Everyday use | Gaming, Immutable systems |
Key differences
- Anatase is based on Fedora, while SteamOS is based on Arch Linux.
- Anatase ships KDE Plasma, Plasma Mobile, Gamemode; SteamOS ships Gaming Mode + KDE Plasma.
- Software comes from Flatpak · Spaces (Arch, Fedora, Ubuntu, Kali) on Anatase and Flatpak (Discover) on SteamOS.
- We suggest about 8 GB of RAM for Anatase and 16 GB for SteamOS.
- Anatase is best for intermediate users; SteamOS 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 SteamOS if…
- console-like Gaming Mode
- proton compatibility layer integrated
- image-based updates with fallback
Official support targets specific handhelds
Full SteamOS profileAnatase vs SteamOS: FAQ
Is Anatase better than SteamOS?
Neither is better for everyone. Anatase is the stronger pick for older hardware; SteamOS for beginners.
Which uses less RAM, Anatase or SteamOS?
Anatase is lighter: we suggest about 8 GB versus 16 GB. The desktop you choose affects memory use more than the distribution itself.
Is Anatase based on SteamOS?
No. Anatase is based on Fedora; SteamOS is based on Arch Linux.
Can I switch from Anatase to SteamOS 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.