Manjaro vs Solus
Manjaro: Arch packages with a slower, tested rollout. Solus: An independent desktop with a curated rolling model. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersSolusSolus is rated beginner; Manjaro 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 | Manjaro | Solus |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #12 | #43 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Arch Linux | Independent |
| Release model | Rolling | Rolling |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce | Budgie, KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce |
| Package management | Pacman · Pamac · AUR (community) | eopkg · Flatpak |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2011 | 2015 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Everyday use, Gaming, Development | Everyday use, Gaming |
Key differences
- Manjaro is based on Arch Linux, while Solus is based on Independent.
- Manjaro ships KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce; Solus ships Budgie, KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce.
- Software comes from Pacman · Pamac · AUR (community) on Manjaro and eopkg · Flatpak on Solus.
- Manjaro is best for intermediate users; Solus for beginner users.
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 Solus if…
- weekly, curated rolling updates
- desktop-focused package selection
- independent base with its own tooling
Smaller repository than major distributions
Full Solus profileManjaro vs Solus: FAQ
Is Manjaro better than Solus?
Neither is better for everyone. Manjaro is the stronger pick for a different set of needs; Solus for beginners.
Which uses less RAM, Manjaro or Solus?
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 Solus?
No. Manjaro is based on Arch Linux; Solus is based on Independent.
Can I switch from Manjaro to Solus 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.