Manjaro vs SteamOS
Manjaro: Arch packages with a slower, tested rollout. SteamOS: Valve’s console-style Linux for handheld gaming. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersSteamOSSteamOS is rated beginner; Manjaro is intermediate.
- GamingTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Older hardwareManjaroManjaro needs about 4 GB of RAM versus 16 GB.
- Latest softwareManjaroManjaro uses a rolling model; SteamOS is atomic.
- Long-term stabilitySteamOSSteamOS changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | Manjaro | SteamOS |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #12 | #5 |
| Latest version | — | 3 (Mar 1, 2022) |
| Based on | Arch Linux | Arch Linux |
| Release model | Rolling | Atomic |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce | Gaming Mode + KDE Plasma |
| Package management | Pacman · Pamac · AUR (community) | Flatpak (Discover) |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 16 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2011 | 2013 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Everyday use, Gaming, Development | Gaming, Immutable systems |
Key differences
- Manjaro follows a rolling release model; SteamOS is atomic.
- Manjaro ships KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce; SteamOS ships Gaming Mode + KDE Plasma.
- Software comes from Pacman · Pamac · AUR (community) on Manjaro and Flatpak (Discover) on SteamOS.
- We suggest about 4 GB of RAM for Manjaro and 16 GB for SteamOS.
- Manjaro is best for intermediate users; SteamOS 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 SteamOS if…
- console-like Gaming Mode
- proton compatibility layer integrated
- image-based updates with fallback
Official support targets specific handhelds
Full SteamOS profileManjaro vs SteamOS: FAQ
Is Manjaro better than SteamOS?
Neither is better for everyone. Manjaro is the stronger pick for older hardware, latest software; SteamOS for beginners, long-term stability.
Which uses less RAM, Manjaro or SteamOS?
Manjaro is lighter: we suggest about 4 GB versus 16 GB. The desktop you choose affects memory use more than the distribution itself.
Is Manjaro based on SteamOS?
No. Manjaro is based on Arch Linux; SteamOS is based on Arch Linux.
Can I switch from Manjaro to SteamOS 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.