KaOS vs Manjaro
KaOS: A lean, independent rolling distro focused on Qt. 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.
- GamingManjaroManjaro 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 | KaOS | Manjaro |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #49 | #12 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Independent | Arch Linux |
| Release model | Rolling | Rolling |
| Desktop | niri with Noctalia | KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce |
| Package management | Pacman · KCP (community) | Pacman · Pamac · AUR (community) |
| Init system | Dinit | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Intermediate |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2013 | 2011 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Everyday use | Everyday use, Gaming, Development |
Key differences
- KaOS is based on Independent, while Manjaro is based on Arch Linux.
- KaOS ships niri with Noctalia; Manjaro ships KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce.
- Software comes from Pacman · KCP (community) on KaOS and Pacman · Pamac · AUR (community) on Manjaro.
- KaOS uses Dinit as its init system; Manjaro uses systemd.
Choose 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 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 profileKaOS vs Manjaro: FAQ
Is KaOS better than Manjaro?
Neither is better for everyone. KaOS is the stronger pick for a different set of needs; Manjaro for gaming.
Which uses less RAM, KaOS or Manjaro?
Both need about 4 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop. The desktop environment affects memory use more than the distribution.
Is KaOS based on Manjaro?
No. KaOS is based on Independent; Manjaro is based on Arch Linux.
Can I switch from KaOS 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.