RakuOS vs Vanilla OS
RakuOS: Atomic Fedora that still lets you install native packages. Vanilla OS: An immutable GNOME desktop with containers for any package. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- GamingRakuOSRakuOS ships gaming-oriented defaults or current drivers.
- Older hardwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Latest softwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Long-term stabilityTieBoth are a similar fit here.
Specs compared
| Feature | RakuOS | Vanilla OS |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | Not ranked | Not ranked |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Fedora | Debian Sid |
| Release model | Atomic | Atomic |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, niri | GNOME |
| Package management | rum (RPM overlay) · RakuOS Software Center | Apx · Flatpak |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Intermediate |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | — | 2022 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Gaming, Immutable systems, Everyday use | Immutable systems, Development, Everyday use |
Key differences
- RakuOS is based on Fedora, while Vanilla OS is based on Debian Sid.
- RakuOS ships KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, niri; Vanilla OS ships GNOME.
- Software comes from rum (RPM overlay) · RakuOS Software Center on RakuOS and Apx · Flatpak on Vanilla OS.
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 Vanilla OS if…
- atomic A/B updates
- apx for packages from other distributions
- vanilla GNOME experience
Young project with changing tooling
Full Vanilla OS profileRakuOS vs Vanilla OS: FAQ
Is RakuOS better than Vanilla OS?
Neither is better for everyone. RakuOS is the stronger pick for gaming; Vanilla OS for a different set of needs.
Which uses less RAM, RakuOS or Vanilla OS?
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 Vanilla OS?
No. RakuOS is based on Fedora; Vanilla OS is based on Debian Sid.
Can I switch from RakuOS to Vanilla OS 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.