Manjaro vs Omarchy
Manjaro: Arch packages with a slower, tested rollout. Omarchy: An opinionated, keyboard-driven Arch setup for developers. 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 hardwareManjaroManjaro needs about 4 GB of RAM versus 8 GB.
- Latest softwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Long-term stabilityTieBoth are a similar fit here.
Specs compared
| Feature | Manjaro | Omarchy |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #12 | #11 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Arch Linux | Arch Linux |
| Release model | Rolling | Rolling |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce | Hyprland |
| Package management | Pacman · Pamac · AUR (community) | Pacman · AUR (community) |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Intermediate |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 8 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2011 | 2025 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Everyday use, Gaming, Development | Development |
Key differences
- Manjaro ships KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce; Omarchy ships Hyprland.
- Software comes from Pacman · Pamac · AUR (community) on Manjaro and Pacman · AUR (community) on Omarchy.
- We suggest about 4 GB of RAM for Manjaro and 8 GB for Omarchy.
Choose 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 profileChoose Omarchy if…
- hyprland preconfigured and themed out of the box
- developer tools set up during installation
- fast installer that asks only a few questions
Keyboard-driven tiling workflow has a learning curve
Full Omarchy profileManjaro vs Omarchy: FAQ
Is Manjaro better than Omarchy?
Neither is better for everyone. Manjaro is the stronger pick for gaming, older hardware; Omarchy for a different set of needs.
Which uses less RAM, Manjaro or Omarchy?
Manjaro is lighter: we suggest about 4 GB versus 8 GB. The desktop you choose affects memory use more than the distribution itself.
Is Manjaro based on Omarchy?
No. Manjaro is based on Arch Linux; Omarchy is based on Arch Linux.
Can I switch from Manjaro to Omarchy 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.