RakuOS vs Solus
RakuOS: Atomic Fedora that still lets you install native packages. 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; RakuOS is intermediate.
- GamingTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Older hardwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Latest softwareSolusSolus uses a rolling model; RakuOS is atomic.
- Long-term stabilityRakuOSRakuOS changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | RakuOS | Solus |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | Not ranked | #43 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Fedora | Independent |
| Release model | Atomic | Rolling |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, niri | Budgie, KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce |
| Package management | rum (RPM overlay) · RakuOS Software Center | eopkg · Flatpak |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | — | 2015 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Gaming, Immutable systems, Everyday use | Everyday use, Gaming |
Key differences
- RakuOS is based on Fedora, while Solus is based on Independent.
- RakuOS follows a atomic release model; Solus is rolling.
- RakuOS ships KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, niri; Solus ships Budgie, KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce.
- Software comes from rum (RPM overlay) · RakuOS Software Center on RakuOS and eopkg · Flatpak on Solus.
- RakuOS is best for intermediate users; Solus for beginner users.
Choose 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 profileChoose Solus if…
- weekly, curated rolling updates
- desktop-focused package selection
- independent base with its own tooling
Smaller repository than major distributions
Full Solus profileRakuOS vs Solus: FAQ
Is RakuOS better than Solus?
Neither is better for everyone. RakuOS is the stronger pick for long-term stability; Solus for beginners, latest software.
Which uses less RAM, RakuOS or Solus?
Both need about 4 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop. The desktop environment affects memory use more than the distribution.
Is RakuOS based on Solus?
No. RakuOS is based on Fedora; Solus is based on Independent.
Can I switch from RakuOS 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.