EndeavourOS vs Ubuntu
EndeavourOS: An approachable installer for an Arch-based system. Ubuntu: Broad support, from your laptop to your server. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersUbuntuUbuntu is rated beginner; EndeavourOS is intermediate.
- GamingEndeavourOSEndeavourOS ships gaming-oriented defaults or current drivers.
- Older hardwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Latest softwareEndeavourOSEndeavourOS uses a rolling model; Ubuntu is stable.
- Long-term stabilityUbuntuUbuntu changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | EndeavourOS | Ubuntu |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #17 | #1 |
| Latest version | — | 26.04.1 (Aug 31, 2026) |
| Based on | Arch Linux | Debian |
| Release model | Rolling | Stable |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, more | GNOME |
| Package management | Pacman · AUR (community) | APT · Snap |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64, aarch64 |
| First released | 2019 | 2004 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Development, Gaming, Everyday use | Everyday use, Development, Servers |
Key differences
- EndeavourOS is based on Arch Linux, while Ubuntu is based on Debian.
- EndeavourOS follows a rolling release model; Ubuntu is stable.
- EndeavourOS ships KDE Plasma, more; Ubuntu ships GNOME.
- Software comes from Pacman · AUR (community) on EndeavourOS and APT · Snap on Ubuntu.
- EndeavourOS is best for intermediate users; Ubuntu 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 Ubuntu if…
- long-term support release options
- extensive documentation and vendor support
- desktop and server editions
Snap is integrated into the default experience
Full Ubuntu profileEndeavourOS vs Ubuntu: FAQ
Is EndeavourOS better than Ubuntu?
Neither is better for everyone. EndeavourOS is the stronger pick for gaming, latest software; Ubuntu for beginners, long-term stability.
Which uses less RAM, EndeavourOS or Ubuntu?
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 Ubuntu?
No. EndeavourOS is based on Arch Linux; Ubuntu is based on Debian.
Can I switch from EndeavourOS to Ubuntu 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.