KaOS vs PCLinuxOS
KaOS: A lean, independent rolling distro focused on Qt. PCLinuxOS: A long-running independent rolling desktop. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersPCLinuxOSPCLinuxOS is rated beginner; KaOS 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 | KaOS | PCLinuxOS |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #49 | #44 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Independent | Independent (Mandriva heritage) |
| Release model | Rolling | Rolling |
| Desktop | niri with Noctalia | KDE Plasma, MATE, Xfce |
| Package management | Pacman · KCP (community) | APT-RPM · Synaptic |
| Init system | Dinit | sysVinit |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2013 | 2003 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Everyday use | Everyday use |
Key differences
- KaOS is based on Independent, while PCLinuxOS is based on Independent (Mandriva heritage).
- KaOS ships niri with Noctalia; PCLinuxOS ships KDE Plasma, MATE, Xfce.
- Software comes from Pacman · KCP (community) on KaOS and APT-RPM · Synaptic on PCLinuxOS.
- KaOS uses Dinit as its init system; PCLinuxOS uses sysVinit.
- KaOS is best for intermediate users; PCLinuxOS for beginner users.
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 PCLinuxOS if…
- rolling without reinstalling
- graphical package management
- systemd-free
64-bit only; small package team
Full PCLinuxOS profileKaOS vs PCLinuxOS: FAQ
Is KaOS better than PCLinuxOS?
Neither is better for everyone. KaOS is the stronger pick for a different set of needs; PCLinuxOS for beginners.
Which uses less RAM, KaOS or PCLinuxOS?
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 PCLinuxOS?
No. KaOS is based on Independent; PCLinuxOS is based on Independent (Mandriva heritage).
Can I switch from KaOS to PCLinuxOS 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.