Bodhi Linux vs Pop!_OS
Bodhi Linux: A minimal Ubuntu base with the elegant Moksha desktop. 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; Bodhi Linux is intermediate.
- GamingPop!_OSPop!_OS ships gaming-oriented defaults or current drivers.
- Older hardwareBodhi LinuxBodhi 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 | Bodhi Linux | Pop!_OS |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #48 | #13 |
| Latest version | — | 24.04 (Dec 11, 2025) |
| Based on | Ubuntu LTS | Ubuntu LTS |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | Moksha | COSMIC |
| Package management | APT | APT · Flatpak |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 2 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2011 | 2017 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Older hardware, Everyday use | Development, Gaming, Everyday use |
Key differences
- Bodhi Linux ships Moksha; Pop!_OS ships COSMIC.
- Software comes from APT on Bodhi Linux and APT · Flatpak on Pop!_OS.
- We suggest about 2 GB of RAM for Bodhi Linux and 4 GB for Pop!_OS.
- Bodhi Linux is best for intermediate users; Pop!_OS for beginner users.
Choose Bodhi Linux if…
- very light Moksha desktop
- minimal preinstalled software
- ubuntu compatibility
Moksha is unique; fewer guides exist
Full Bodhi Linux 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 profileBodhi Linux vs Pop!_OS: FAQ
Is Bodhi Linux better than Pop!_OS?
Neither is better for everyone. Bodhi Linux is the stronger pick for older hardware; Pop!_OS for beginners, gaming.
Which uses less RAM, Bodhi Linux or Pop!_OS?
Bodhi Linux is lighter: we suggest about 2 GB versus 4 GB. The desktop you choose affects memory use more than the distribution itself.
Is Bodhi Linux based on Pop!_OS?
No. Bodhi Linux is based on Ubuntu LTS; Pop!_OS is based on Ubuntu LTS.
Can I switch from Bodhi Linux 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.