EndeavourOS vs Solus
EndeavourOS: An approachable installer for an Arch-based system. Solus: An independent desktop with a curated rolling model. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersSolusSolus is rated beginner; EndeavourOS is intermediate.
- 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 | Solus |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #17 | #43 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Arch Linux | Independent |
| Release model | Rolling | Rolling |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, more | Budgie, KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce |
| Package management | Pacman · AUR (community) | eopkg · Flatpak |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2019 | 2015 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Development, Gaming, Everyday use | Everyday use, Gaming |
Key differences
- EndeavourOS is based on Arch Linux, while Solus is based on Independent.
- EndeavourOS ships KDE Plasma, more; Solus ships Budgie, KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce.
- Software comes from Pacman · AUR (community) on EndeavourOS and eopkg · Flatpak on Solus.
- EndeavourOS is best for intermediate users; Solus for beginner users.
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 Solus if…
- weekly, curated rolling updates
- desktop-focused package selection
- independent base with its own tooling
Smaller repository than major distributions
Full Solus profileEndeavourOS vs Solus: FAQ
Is EndeavourOS better than Solus?
Neither is better for everyone. EndeavourOS is the stronger pick for a different set of needs; Solus for beginners.
Which uses less RAM, EndeavourOS or Solus?
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 Solus?
No. EndeavourOS is based on Arch Linux; Solus is based on Independent.
Can I switch from EndeavourOS to Solus 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.