Linux Mint vs Manjaro
Linux Mint: A familiar desktop. A comfortable place to start. Manjaro: Arch packages with a slower, tested rollout. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersLinux MintLinux Mint is rated beginner; Manjaro is intermediate.
- GamingManjaroManjaro ships gaming-oriented defaults or current drivers.
- Older hardwareLinux MintSimilar memory needs, but Linux Mint offers a lighter desktop option.
- Latest softwareManjaroManjaro uses a rolling model; Linux Mint is stable.
- Long-term stabilityLinux MintLinux Mint changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | Linux Mint | Manjaro |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #2 | #12 |
| Latest version | 22.3 (Jan 11, 2026) | — |
| Based on | Ubuntu LTS | Arch Linux |
| Release model | Stable | Rolling |
| Desktop | Cinnamon, MATE, Xfce | KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce |
| Package management | APT · Flatpak | Pacman · Pamac · AUR (community) |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Beginner | Intermediate |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Everyday use, Older hardware, Development | Everyday use, Gaming, Development |
Key differences
- Linux Mint is based on Ubuntu LTS, while Manjaro is based on Arch Linux.
- Linux Mint follows a stable release model; Manjaro is rolling.
- Linux Mint ships Cinnamon, MATE, Xfce; Manjaro ships KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce.
- Software comes from APT · Flatpak on Linux Mint and Pacman · Pamac · AUR (community) on Manjaro.
- Linux Mint is best for beginner users; Manjaro for intermediate users.
Choose Linux Mint if…
- familiar desktop layout with useful defaults
- graphical software and update managers
- choose Xfce for a lighter desktop
Packages can be older than on rolling distributions
Full Linux Mint 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 profileLinux Mint vs Manjaro: FAQ
Is Linux Mint better than Manjaro?
Neither is better for everyone. Linux Mint is the stronger pick for beginners, older hardware, long-term stability; Manjaro for gaming, latest software.
Which uses less RAM, Linux Mint or Manjaro?
Both need about 4 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop. The desktop environment affects memory use more than the distribution.
Is Linux Mint based on Manjaro?
No, the reverse: Manjaro is based on Arch Linux.
Can I switch from Linux Mint 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.