RakuOS vs SteamOS
RakuOS: Atomic Fedora that still lets you install native packages. 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; RakuOS is intermediate.
- GamingTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Older hardwareRakuOSRakuOS needs about 4 GB of RAM versus 16 GB.
- Latest softwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Long-term stabilityTieBoth are a similar fit here.
Specs compared
| Feature | RakuOS | SteamOS |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | Not ranked | #5 |
| Latest version | — | 3 (Mar 1, 2022) |
| Based on | Fedora | Arch Linux |
| Release model | Atomic | Atomic |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, niri | Gaming Mode + KDE Plasma |
| Package management | rum (RPM overlay) · RakuOS Software Center | Flatpak (Discover) |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 16 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | — | 2013 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Gaming, Immutable systems, Everyday use | Gaming, Immutable systems |
Key differences
- RakuOS is based on Fedora, while SteamOS is based on Arch Linux.
- RakuOS ships KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, niri; SteamOS ships Gaming Mode + KDE Plasma.
- Software comes from rum (RPM overlay) · RakuOS Software Center on RakuOS and Flatpak (Discover) on SteamOS.
- We suggest about 4 GB of RAM for RakuOS and 16 GB for SteamOS.
- RakuOS is best for intermediate users; SteamOS 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 SteamOS if…
- console-like Gaming Mode
- proton compatibility layer integrated
- image-based updates with fallback
Official support targets specific handhelds
Full SteamOS profileRakuOS vs SteamOS: FAQ
Is RakuOS better than SteamOS?
Neither is better for everyone. RakuOS is the stronger pick for older hardware; SteamOS for beginners.
Which uses less RAM, RakuOS or SteamOS?
RakuOS is lighter: we suggest about 4 GB versus 16 GB. The desktop you choose affects memory use more than the distribution itself.
Is RakuOS based on SteamOS?
No. RakuOS is based on Fedora; SteamOS is based on Arch Linux.
Can I switch from RakuOS 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.