EndeavourOS vs KaOS
EndeavourOS: An approachable installer for an Arch-based system. KaOS: A lean, independent rolling distro focused on Qt. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- GamingEndeavourOSEndeavourOS ships gaming-oriented defaults or current drivers.
- 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 | EndeavourOS | KaOS |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #17 | #49 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Arch Linux | Independent |
| Release model | Rolling | Rolling |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, more | niri with Noctalia |
| Package management | Pacman · AUR (community) | Pacman · KCP (community) |
| Init system | systemd | Dinit |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Intermediate |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2019 | 2013 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Development, Gaming, Everyday use | Everyday use |
Key differences
- EndeavourOS is based on Arch Linux, while KaOS is based on Independent.
- EndeavourOS ships KDE Plasma, more; KaOS ships niri with Noctalia.
- Software comes from Pacman · AUR (community) on EndeavourOS and Pacman · KCP (community) on KaOS.
- EndeavourOS uses systemd as its init system; KaOS uses Dinit.
Choose EndeavourOS if…
- accessible setup for an Arch-based environment
- rolling package collection
- active learning-oriented documentation
Still requires rolling-release maintenance
Full EndeavourOS profileChoose KaOS if…
- everything built by and for KaOS from scratch
- current Qt and KDE applications on a rolling base
- calamares graphical installer
Deliberately small repositories
Full KaOS profileEndeavourOS vs KaOS: FAQ
Is EndeavourOS better than KaOS?
Neither is better for everyone. EndeavourOS is the stronger pick for gaming; KaOS for a different set of needs.
Which uses less RAM, EndeavourOS or KaOS?
Both need about 4 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop. The desktop environment affects memory use more than the distribution.
Is EndeavourOS based on KaOS?
No. EndeavourOS is based on Arch Linux; KaOS is based on Independent.
Can I switch from EndeavourOS to KaOS 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.