Solus vs Zorin OS
Solus: An independent desktop with a curated rolling model. Zorin OS: A gentle switch from the desktop you know. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersZorin OSBoth are beginner-friendly; Zorin OS has a Windows-like layout.
- GamingSolusSolus ships gaming-oriented defaults or current drivers.
- Older hardwareZorin OSSimilar memory needs, but Zorin OS offers a lighter desktop option.
- Latest softwareSolusSolus uses a rolling model; Zorin OS is stable.
- Long-term stabilityZorin OSZorin OS changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | Solus | Zorin OS |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #43 | #7 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Independent | Ubuntu LTS |
| Release model | Rolling | Stable |
| Desktop | Budgie, KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce | GNOME-based (Xfce in Lite) |
| Package management | eopkg · Flatpak | APT · Flatpak · Snap |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Beginner | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2015 | 2008 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Everyday use, Gaming | Everyday use, Older hardware |
Key differences
- Solus is based on Independent, while Zorin OS is based on Ubuntu LTS.
- Solus follows a rolling release model; Zorin OS is stable.
- Solus ships Budgie, KDE Plasma, GNOME, Xfce; Zorin OS ships GNOME-based (Xfce in Lite).
- Software comes from eopkg · Flatpak on Solus and APT · Flatpak · Snap on Zorin OS.
Choose Solus if…
- weekly, curated rolling updates
- desktop-focused package selection
- independent base with its own tooling
Smaller repository than major distributions
Full Solus profileChoose Zorin OS if…
- familiar desktop layouts
- graphical tools for common tasks
- ubuntu-compatible software ecosystem
Some layouts and bundles require a paid edition
Full Zorin OS profileSolus vs Zorin OS: FAQ
Is Solus better than Zorin OS?
Neither is better for everyone. Solus is the stronger pick for gaming, latest software; Zorin OS for beginners, older hardware, long-term stability.
Which uses less RAM, Solus or Zorin OS?
Both need about 4 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop. The desktop environment affects memory use more than the distribution.
Is Solus based on Zorin OS?
No. Solus is based on Independent; Zorin OS is based on Ubuntu LTS.
Can I switch from Solus to Zorin 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.