Anatase vs Vanilla OS
Anatase: One immutable Fedora image for desktop, handheld, and gaming. Vanilla OS: An immutable GNOME desktop with containers for any package. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- GamingAnataseAnatase ships gaming-oriented defaults or current drivers.
- Older hardwareVanilla OSVanilla OS needs about 4 GB of RAM versus 8 GB.
- Latest softwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Long-term stabilityTieBoth are a similar fit here.
Specs compared
| Feature | Anatase | Vanilla OS |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | Not ranked | Not ranked |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Fedora | Debian Sid |
| Release model | Atomic | Atomic |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, Plasma Mobile, Gamemode | GNOME |
| Package management | Flatpak · Spaces (Arch, Fedora, Ubuntu, Kali) | Apx · Flatpak |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Intermediate |
| Suggested RAM | 8 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | — | 2022 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Gaming, Immutable systems, Development, Everyday use | Immutable systems, Development, Everyday use |
Key differences
- Anatase is based on Fedora, while Vanilla OS is based on Debian Sid.
- Anatase ships KDE Plasma, Plasma Mobile, Gamemode; Vanilla OS ships GNOME.
- Software comes from Flatpak · Spaces (Arch, Fedora, Ubuntu, Kali) on Anatase and Apx · Flatpak on Vanilla OS.
- We suggest about 8 GB of RAM for Anatase and 4 GB for Vanilla OS.
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 Vanilla OS if…
- atomic A/B updates
- apx for packages from other distributions
- vanilla GNOME experience
Young project with changing tooling
Full Vanilla OS profileAnatase vs Vanilla OS: FAQ
Is Anatase better than Vanilla OS?
Neither is better for everyone. Anatase is the stronger pick for gaming; Vanilla OS for older hardware.
Which uses less RAM, Anatase or Vanilla OS?
Vanilla 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 Vanilla OS?
No. Anatase is based on Fedora; Vanilla OS is based on Debian Sid.
Can I switch from Anatase to Vanilla 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.