Artix Linux vs Manjaro
Artix Linux: Arch Linux without systemd. Manjaro: Arch packages with a slower, tested rollout. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersManjaroManjaro is rated intermediate; Artix Linux is advanced.
- GamingManjaroManjaro ships gaming-oriented defaults or current drivers.
- Older hardwareArtix LinuxArtix Linux needs about 2 GB of RAM versus 4 GB.
- Latest softwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Long-term stabilityTieBoth are a similar fit here.
Specs compared
| Feature | Artix Linux | Manjaro |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #29 | #12 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Arch Linux | Arch Linux |
| Release model | Rolling | Rolling |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, Xfce, more | KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce |
| Package management | Pacman · AUR (community) | Pacman · Pamac · AUR (community) |
| Init system | OpenRC, runit, s6 or dinit | systemd |
| Experience level | Advanced | Intermediate |
| Suggested RAM | 2 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2017 | 2011 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Development, Older hardware | Everyday use, Gaming, Development |
Key differences
- Artix Linux ships KDE Plasma, Xfce, more; Manjaro ships KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce.
- Software comes from Pacman · AUR (community) on Artix Linux and Pacman · Pamac · AUR (community) on Manjaro.
- Artix Linux uses OpenRC, runit, s6 or dinit as its init system; Manjaro uses systemd.
- We suggest about 2 GB of RAM for Artix Linux and 4 GB for Manjaro.
- Artix Linux is best for advanced users; Manjaro for intermediate users.
Choose Artix Linux if…
- choice of four init systems
- arch packages and AUR access
- graphical and base images
Some Arch packages assume systemd
Full Artix Linux profileChoose Manjaro if…
- graphical kernel and driver management
- stable, testing, and unstable branches
- current packages without a manual Arch install
Branch delays can conflict with AUR packages built for Arch
Full Manjaro profileArtix Linux vs Manjaro: FAQ
Is Artix Linux better than Manjaro?
Neither is better for everyone. Artix Linux is the stronger pick for older hardware; Manjaro for beginners, gaming.
Which uses less RAM, Artix Linux or Manjaro?
Artix Linux is lighter: we suggest about 2 GB versus 4 GB. The desktop you choose affects memory use more than the distribution itself.
Is Artix Linux based on Manjaro?
No. Artix Linux is based on Arch Linux; Manjaro is based on Arch Linux.
Can I switch from Artix Linux to Manjaro 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.