EndeavourOS vs Manjaro
EndeavourOS: An approachable installer for an Arch-based system. 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 | EndeavourOS | Manjaro |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #17 | #12 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Arch Linux | Arch Linux |
| Release model | Rolling | Rolling |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, 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 | 2019 | 2011 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Development, Gaming, Everyday use | Everyday use, Gaming, Development |
Key differences
- EndeavourOS ships KDE Plasma, more; Manjaro ships KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce.
- Software comes from Pacman · AUR (community) on EndeavourOS and Pacman · Pamac · AUR (community) on Manjaro.
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 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 profileEndeavourOS vs Manjaro: FAQ
Is EndeavourOS better than Manjaro?
Neither is better for everyone. EndeavourOS is the stronger pick for a different set of needs; Manjaro for a different set of needs.
Which uses less RAM, EndeavourOS or Manjaro?
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 Manjaro?
No. EndeavourOS is based on Arch Linux; Manjaro is based on Arch Linux.
Can I switch from EndeavourOS 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.