CachyOS vs RakuOS
CachyOS: An Arch-based system tuned for speed. RakuOS: Atomic Fedora that still lets you install native packages. 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 softwareCachyOSCachyOS uses a rolling model; RakuOS is atomic.
- Long-term stabilityRakuOSRakuOS changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | CachyOS | RakuOS |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #4 | Not ranked |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Arch Linux | Fedora |
| Release model | Rolling | Atomic |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, Hyprland, niri, more | KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, niri |
| Package management | Pacman · AUR (community) | rum (RPM overlay) · RakuOS Software Center |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Intermediate |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2021 | — |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Gaming, Development, Everyday use | Gaming, Immutable systems, Everyday use |
Key differences
- CachyOS is based on Arch Linux, while RakuOS is based on Fedora.
- CachyOS follows a rolling release model; RakuOS is atomic.
- CachyOS ships KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, Hyprland, niri, more; RakuOS ships KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, niri.
- Software comes from Pacman · AUR (community) on CachyOS and rum (RPM overlay) · RakuOS Software Center on RakuOS.
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 RakuOS if…
- atomic image updates with instant rollback
- native RPM packages persist across updates
- terra repositories enabled for codecs and drivers
Young project with a small community
Full RakuOS profileCachyOS vs RakuOS: FAQ
Is CachyOS better than RakuOS?
Neither is better for everyone. CachyOS is the stronger pick for latest software; RakuOS for long-term stability.
Which uses less RAM, CachyOS or RakuOS?
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 RakuOS?
No. CachyOS is based on Arch Linux; RakuOS is based on Fedora.
Can I switch from CachyOS to RakuOS 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.