Manjaro vs RakuOS
Manjaro: Arch packages with a slower, tested rollout. RakuOS: Atomic Fedora that still lets you install native packages. 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 softwareManjaroManjaro uses a rolling model; RakuOS is atomic.
- Long-term stabilityRakuOSRakuOS changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | Manjaro | RakuOS |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #12 | Not ranked |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Arch Linux | Fedora |
| Release model | Rolling | Atomic |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce | KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, niri |
| Package management | Pacman · Pamac · AUR (community) | rum (RPM overlay) · RakuOS Software Center |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Intermediate |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2011 | — |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Everyday use, Gaming, Development | Gaming, Immutable systems, Everyday use |
Key differences
- Manjaro is based on Arch Linux, while RakuOS is based on Fedora.
- Manjaro follows a rolling release model; RakuOS is atomic.
- Manjaro ships KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce; RakuOS ships KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, niri.
- Software comes from Pacman · Pamac · AUR (community) on Manjaro and rum (RPM overlay) · RakuOS Software Center on RakuOS.
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 RakuOS if…
- atomic image updates with instant rollback
- native RPM packages persist across updates
- terra repositories enabled for codecs and drivers
Young project with a small community
Full RakuOS profileManjaro vs RakuOS: FAQ
Is Manjaro better than RakuOS?
Neither is better for everyone. Manjaro is the stronger pick for latest software; RakuOS for long-term stability.
Which uses less RAM, Manjaro or RakuOS?
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 RakuOS?
No. Manjaro is based on Arch Linux; RakuOS is based on Fedora.
Can I switch from Manjaro to RakuOS 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.