Endless OS vs MX Linux
Endless OS: An offline-friendly atomic desktop for learning. MX Linux: Debian Stable with a toolbox of helpful utilities. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- GamingEndless OSEndless OS gets newer drivers and kernels faster.
- Older hardwareMX LinuxMX Linux needs about 2 GB of RAM versus 4 GB.
- Latest softwareEndless OSEndless OS uses a atomic model; MX Linux is stable.
- Long-term stabilityMX LinuxMX Linux changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | Endless OS | MX Linux |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #51 | #16 |
| Latest version | — | 25.3 (Sep 20, 2026) |
| Based on | Debian | Debian Stable |
| Release model | Atomic | Stable |
| Desktop | GNOME-based | Xfce, KDE Plasma, Fluxbox |
| Package management | Flatpak · OSTree | APT · MX Package Installer · Flatpak |
| Init system | systemd | sysVinit (systemd optional) |
| Experience level | Beginner | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 2 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64, i686 |
| First released | — | 2014 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Education, Everyday use, Immutable systems | Everyday use, Older hardware |
Key differences
- Endless OS is based on Debian, while MX Linux is based on Debian Stable.
- Endless OS follows a atomic release model; MX Linux is stable.
- Endless OS ships GNOME-based; MX Linux ships Xfce, KDE Plasma, Fluxbox.
- Software comes from Flatpak · OSTree on Endless OS and APT · MX Package Installer · Flatpak on MX Linux.
- Endless OS uses systemd as its init system; MX Linux uses sysVinit (systemd optional).
- We suggest about 4 GB of RAM for Endless OS and 2 GB for MX Linux.
Choose Endless OS if…
- works well offline
- hard-to-break atomic base
- educational content built in
Limited traditional package installation
Full Endless OS profileChoose MX Linux if…
- mX Tools cover common admin tasks graphically
- snapshot tool can turn your install into a live ISO
- runs well on older and 32-bit machines
Debian Stable base means older package versions
Full MX Linux profileEndless OS vs MX Linux: FAQ
Is Endless OS better than MX Linux?
Neither is better for everyone. Endless OS is the stronger pick for gaming, latest software; MX Linux for older hardware, long-term stability.
Which uses less RAM, Endless OS or MX Linux?
MX Linux is lighter: we suggest about 2 GB versus 4 GB. The desktop you choose affects memory use more than the distribution itself.
Is Endless OS based on MX Linux?
No. Endless OS is based on Debian; MX Linux is based on Debian Stable.
Can I switch from Endless OS to MX Linux 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.