CachyOS vs Manjaro
CachyOS: An Arch-based system tuned for speed. Manjaro: Arch packages with a slower, tested rollout. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- GamingTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Older hardwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Latest softwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Long-term stabilityTieBoth are a similar fit here.
Specs compared
| Feature | CachyOS | Manjaro |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #4 | #12 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Arch Linux | Arch Linux |
| Release model | Rolling | Rolling |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, Hyprland, niri, more | KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce |
| Package management | Pacman · AUR (community) | Pacman · Pamac · AUR (community) |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Intermediate |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2021 | 2011 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Gaming, Development, Everyday use | Everyday use, Gaming, Development |
Key differences
- CachyOS ships KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, Hyprland, niri, more; Manjaro ships KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce.
- Software comes from Pacman · AUR (community) on CachyOS and Pacman · Pamac · AUR (community) on Manjaro.
Choose CachyOS if…
- optimized package builds for newer CPUs
- choice of tuned kernels and schedulers
- graphical installer with many desktop options
Optimized repositories need a supported processor
Full CachyOS 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 profileCachyOS vs Manjaro: FAQ
Is CachyOS better than Manjaro?
Neither is better for everyone. CachyOS is the stronger pick for a different set of needs; Manjaro for a different set of needs.
Which uses less RAM, CachyOS or Manjaro?
Both need about 4 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop. The desktop environment affects memory use more than the distribution.
Is CachyOS based on Manjaro?
No. CachyOS is based on Arch Linux; Manjaro is based on Arch Linux.
Can I switch from CachyOS 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.