Manjaro vs Ubuntu
Manjaro: Arch packages with a slower, tested rollout. Ubuntu: Broad support, from your laptop to your server. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersUbuntuUbuntu is rated beginner; Manjaro is intermediate.
- GamingManjaroManjaro ships gaming-oriented defaults or current drivers.
- Older hardwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Latest softwareManjaroManjaro uses a rolling model; Ubuntu is stable.
- Long-term stabilityUbuntuUbuntu changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | Manjaro | Ubuntu |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #12 | #1 |
| Latest version | — | 26.04.1 (Aug 31, 2026) |
| Based on | Arch Linux | Debian |
| Release model | Rolling | Stable |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce | GNOME |
| Package management | Pacman · Pamac · AUR (community) | APT · Snap |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64, aarch64 |
| First released | 2011 | 2004 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Everyday use, Gaming, Development | Everyday use, Development, Servers |
Key differences
- Manjaro is based on Arch Linux, while Ubuntu is based on Debian.
- Manjaro follows a rolling release model; Ubuntu is stable.
- Manjaro ships KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce; Ubuntu ships GNOME.
- Software comes from Pacman · Pamac · AUR (community) on Manjaro and APT · Snap on Ubuntu.
- Manjaro is best for intermediate users; Ubuntu 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 Ubuntu if…
- long-term support release options
- extensive documentation and vendor support
- desktop and server editions
Snap is integrated into the default experience
Full Ubuntu profileManjaro vs Ubuntu: FAQ
Is Manjaro better than Ubuntu?
Neither is better for everyone. Manjaro is the stronger pick for gaming, latest software; Ubuntu for beginners, long-term stability.
Which uses less RAM, Manjaro or Ubuntu?
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 Ubuntu?
No. Manjaro is based on Arch Linux; Ubuntu is based on Debian.
Can I switch from Manjaro to Ubuntu 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.