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When it comes to Arch-based distributions, EndeavourOS and Arch Linux are often compared. Both are rooted in Arch, which is known for its rolling release model, flexibility, and cutting-edge software. However, they cater to different user needs. In this post, we’ll explore the key differences between EndeavourOS and Arch Linux, helping you decide which one is best for you.
1. Philosophy and Approach
Arch Linux: The DIY Linux Distro
- Arch Linux follows the principle of KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid), providing a bare-bones base system that leaves most things up to the user.
- Arch is designed for experienced Linux users who enjoy building their systems from the ground up. It provides no hand-holding, meaning users are responsible for everything, from partitioning the hard drive to configuring system settings.
- Arch offers maximum flexibility, but it comes at the cost of a steeper learning curve and more time spent on setup.
EndeavourOS: A Friendlier Arch Experience
- EndeavourOS, on the other hand, is designed to make the Arch experience more accessible while staying close to Arch’s core principles.
- It’s essentially Arch Linux with a user-friendly installer and some additional tools to help new users get started quickly, without sacrificing the flexibility Arch offers.
- EndeavourOS gives you a minimal setup similar to Arch, but it provides a more approachable installation process and additional community support, making it a great option for users who want to use Arch but don’t want to deal with the complexity of a manual install.
2. Installation: Manual vs Guided
Arch Linux: The True Arch Installation
- The installation process for Arch Linux is manual and requires users to configure everything step by step through the command line. This includes partitioning the disk, installing a bootloader, configuring networking, setting up the desktop environment, and much more.
- The official Arch installation guide is comprehensive, but the process can still be overwhelming for beginners. It’s best suited for users who are comfortable with the terminal and enjoy configuring their system from scratch.
EndeavourOS: Easy-to-Follow Installation
- EndeavourOS uses the Calamares installer, which makes the installation process much easier and more approachable. It provides a graphical installer that allows users to select their language, time zone, disk partitioning, and desktop environment, all with a few clicks.
- Although it’s not as hands-on as Arch’s installation process, EndeavourOS offers users a minimal yet functional system after installation, and users can always opt for a more advanced setup later if desired.
3. System Customization: Full Control vs Pre-configured
Arch Linux: Full Customization
- One of the key strengths of Arch Linux is its customization. Because it’s a minimal base system, Arch gives users complete control over what gets installed and how the system is configured.
- Arch’s package manager (pacman) and rolling release model provide access to the latest software, and users can fine-tune every aspect of their system, from the kernel to the desktop environment.
- This is ideal for users who want total control and are comfortable with manual configuration.
EndeavourOS: Pre-configured but Flexible
- EndeavourOS provides a more pre-configured system with desktop environments and a set of tools designed to simplify setup. This allows users to have a usable system right after installation without needing to configure everything themselves.
- However, users still have plenty of room to customize their systems, as EndeavourOS keeps things close to Arch’s core philosophy. You can always install additional packages, tweak settings, and adjust the system to fit your needs.
4. Stability and Updates: Pure Arch vs Curated Updates
Arch Linux: Cutting-Edge but Riskier
- Arch Linux follows a rolling release model, which means you get the latest software and updates as soon as they’re available. While this keeps your system up to date, it also means there’s a higher risk of encountering bugs or issues after an update.
- Since Arch provides the most recent packages from the official Arch repositories, users need to be ready to handle occasional breakages or conflicts.
EndeavourOS: More Stable, but Still Cutting-Edge
- EndeavourOS is based on Arch Linux and follows the same rolling release model, but it offers curated updates to ensure that the system remains more stable.
- The team behind EndeavourOS may delay updates slightly to test packages for compatibility, which can result in fewer issues than a pure Arch setup.
- However, you still get access to the latest software thanks to EndeavourOS’ use of the Arch repositories and AUR.
5. Package Management and Software Availability
Arch Linux: AUR and Pacman
- Arch Linux uses pacman as its package manager, which is fast and efficient. The official Arch repositories contain thousands of packages, and Arch users also have access to the Arch User Repository (AUR), where they can find a vast collection of community-maintained packages.
- Since Arch provides minimal software out of the box, you’ll likely need to install many packages manually via pacman or an AUR helper like yay.
EndeavourOS: AUR and Pacman with Added Convenience
- EndeavourOS uses pacman as well, but it includes some additional tools to make the package management process easier, such as Pamac (a graphical AUR helper) and Octopi.
- These tools provide a more user-friendly experience when searching for, installing, and managing packages. You still have access to all the software Arch offers through the AUR and official repositories, but EndeavourOS makes it simpler to interact with.
6. Community and Support: Arch’s Documentation vs EndeavourOS’s Community
Arch Linux: Comprehensive but DIY
- Arch Linux has one of the most extensive and well-maintained documentation resources in the Linux world: the Arch Wiki. However, because Arch is primarily community-driven, support is often less direct, and users must rely on the Arch forums or IRC for assistance.
- The Arch community is known for its DIY mindset, which means that while you can get help, you’ll often need to figure out solutions yourself or ask detailed questions.
EndeavourOS: More Accessible Community
- EndeavourOS has a smaller but helpful community that focuses on providing support specifically for EndeavourOS users. Since EndeavourOS is designed to be more beginner-friendly, it offers a more approachable support system.
- Users also have access to Arch’s documentation and EndeavourOS-specific forums and resources, making it easier for those who are newer to Linux or Arch to get help.
Which One Should You Choose?
- Choose Arch Linux if:
- You prefer a minimal, customizable base system and want full control over every aspect of your installation.
- You’re comfortable with manual configuration and enjoy the process of setting up your system from scratch.
- You’re looking for the cutting-edge software and don’t mind the occasional risk of system breakages.
- Choose EndeavourOS if:
- You want an Arch-like experience with a simpler, more user-friendly installer.
- You’d like a pre-configured system with some helpful tools and a smoother entry point into the Arch ecosystem.
- You prefer a balance between customization and a more stable experience.
Final Thoughts
Both EndeavourOS and Arch Linux offer the power and flexibility of Arch, but they approach it in different ways. Arch Linux is perfect for experienced users who want complete control over their system and are comfortable with manual setup. EndeavourOS, on the other hand, is great for users who want to dive into the Arch world but prefer a more accessible, guided experience with plenty of room for customization.
No matter which one you choose, you’ll be able to enjoy the power and flexibility of Arch Linux, but with different levels of effort required to get there.
