Arch Linux
Build the system you want. Keep learning.
What is Arch Linux?
Arch Linux is a rolling distribution built around user choice and clear documentation. You select the desktop and components, and maintain the result through regular updates. It rewards readers who are comfortable with a terminal and willing to investigate changes before upgrading.
Who is Arch Linux for?
Arch Linux fits best for development, gaming and older hardware. Where it ranks in our lists:
- #2 of 14: best rolling release Linux distros
- #2 of 15: best Linux distros for 2 GB of RAM
- #4 of 13: best Linux distros for gaming
- #4 of 18: best lightweight Linux distros for old laptops
- #5 of 29: best Linux distros for programming and development
- #6 of 37: best Linux distros for 4 GB of RAM
Pros
- Highly configurable installation
- Rolling access to current packages
- Detailed ArchWiki documentation
Cons
- Requires active maintenance and attention to news
- AUR packages are user-maintained and need review
Arch Linux system requirements
For a comfortable desktop with a modern web browser, plan for about 2 GB of RAM, and less is workable with a light desktop. Arch Linux is available for x86_64. Leave at least 25 GB of storage for the system and applications. These figures are editorial guidance; check the official documentation for minimums.
What does Arch Linux look like?
Arch Linux has no default desktop. The installation image boots to a text console logged in as root, with a short message pointing to the installation guide and the iwctl tool for Wi-Fi. You either follow the guide by hand or run archinstall, a menu-driven installer where you choose disks, users and a profile such as GNOME, KDE Plasma or Hyprland. After installing, Arch looks like whichever desktop you picked, mostly unthemed.
Try Arch Linux before you install
Write the image to a USB stick and boot it as a live session to test Wi-Fi, graphics, sound, and suspend on your own computer. A browser trial on DistroSea shows the desktop, but cannot verify your hardware.
Compare Arch Linux with…
Best Arch Linux alternatives
Arch Linux: common questions
What is Arch Linux based on?
Arch Linux is an independent distribution; it is not derived from another Linux distribution. It uses Pacman · AUR (community) for software and systemd as its init system.
Is Arch Linux good for beginners?
Not usually. Arch Linux expects hands-on configuration and maintenance. Beginners are better served by Linux Mint, Ubuntu, or Zorin OS.
How much RAM does Arch Linux need?
We suggest about 2 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop experience with a modern browser. This is editorial guidance, not the project’s official minimum, which can be lower. It runs on x86_64.
What desktop does Arch Linux use?
Arch Linux lets you choose your own desktop environment during or after installation.
Is Arch Linux a rolling release?
Yes. Arch Linux updates continuously, so there are no version upgrades to perform.
Is Arch Linux free?
Yes, Arch Linux is free to download and use.