Pop!_OS vs RakuOS
Pop!_OS: A developer-friendly desktop with built-in tiling. RakuOS: Atomic Fedora that still lets you install native packages. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersPop!_OSPop!_OS is rated beginner; RakuOS is intermediate.
- GamingRakuOSRakuOS ships gaming-oriented defaults or current drivers.
- Older hardwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Latest softwareRakuOSRakuOS uses a atomic model; Pop!_OS is stable.
- Long-term stabilityPop!_OSPop!_OS changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | Pop!_OS | RakuOS |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #13 | Not ranked |
| Latest version | 24.04 (Dec 11, 2025) | — |
| Based on | Ubuntu LTS | Fedora |
| Release model | Stable | Atomic |
| Desktop | COSMIC | KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, niri |
| Package management | APT · Flatpak | rum (RPM overlay) · RakuOS Software Center |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Beginner | Intermediate |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2017 | — |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Development, Gaming, Everyday use | Gaming, Immutable systems, Everyday use |
Key differences
- Pop!_OS is based on Ubuntu LTS, while RakuOS is based on Fedora.
- Pop!_OS follows a stable release model; RakuOS is atomic.
- Pop!_OS ships COSMIC; RakuOS ships KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, niri.
- Software comes from APT · Flatpak on Pop!_OS and rum (RPM overlay) · RakuOS Software Center on RakuOS.
- Pop!_OS is best for beginner users; RakuOS for intermediate users.
Choose Pop!_OS if…
- nVIDIA image with the proprietary driver preinstalled
- optional auto-tiling built into the desktop
- tested on System76 hardware
COSMIC is young; expect rough edges and missing extensions
Full Pop!_OS 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 profilePop!_OS vs RakuOS: FAQ
Is Pop!_OS better than RakuOS?
Neither is better for everyone. Pop!_OS is the stronger pick for beginners, long-term stability; RakuOS for gaming, latest software.
Which uses less RAM, Pop!_OS or RakuOS?
Both need about 4 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop. The desktop environment affects memory use more than the distribution.
Is Pop!_OS based on RakuOS?
No. Pop!_OS is based on Ubuntu LTS; RakuOS is based on Fedora.
Can I switch from Pop!_OS 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.