Manjaro vs openSUSE Tumbleweed
Manjaro: Arch packages with a slower, tested rollout. openSUSE Tumbleweed: Rolling releases with tested snapshots. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- 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 | Manjaro | openSUSE Tumbleweed |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #12 | #15 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Arch Linux | openSUSE |
| Release model | Rolling | Rolling |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce | KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce |
| Package management | Pacman · Pamac · AUR (community) | Zypper · RPM |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Intermediate |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64, aarch64 |
| First released | 2011 | 2014 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Everyday use, Gaming, Development | Development, Everyday use, Gaming |
Key differences
- Manjaro is based on Arch Linux, while openSUSE Tumbleweed is based on openSUSE.
- Software comes from Pacman · Pamac · AUR (community) on Manjaro and Zypper · RPM on openSUSE Tumbleweed.
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 openSUSE Tumbleweed if…
- automated testing of rolling snapshots
- broad desktop choices
- snapshot recovery with supported setups
Frequent and sometimes large updates
Full openSUSE Tumbleweed profileManjaro vs openSUSE Tumbleweed: FAQ
Is Manjaro better than openSUSE Tumbleweed?
Neither is better for everyone. Manjaro is the stronger pick for a different set of needs; openSUSE Tumbleweed for a different set of needs.
Which uses less RAM, Manjaro or openSUSE Tumbleweed?
Both need about 4 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop. The desktop environment affects memory use more than the distribution.
Is Manjaro based on openSUSE Tumbleweed?
No. Manjaro is based on Arch Linux; openSUSE Tumbleweed is based on openSUSE.
Can I switch from Manjaro to openSUSE Tumbleweed 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.