Manjaro vs EndeavourOS: A Comprehensive Comparison for Linux Enthusiasts

If you’re exploring Arch-based Linux, you’ve come across Manjaro vs EndeavourOS . Both offer powerful rolling-release systems but differ in installer, updates, and system philosophy. This guide compares their strengths to help you decide.

Side-by-Side Comparison Manjaro vs EndeavourOS

Aspect	Manjaro	EndeavourOS
Installer	Calamares with GUI tools	Calamares, minimal default
Update Model	Curated, slight delay	Direct from Arch, bleeding-edge
Package Management	Pamac GUI + AUR	pacman + yay (CLI)
Pre-installed Tools	Settings manager, drivers, codecs	Minimal base, terminal-centric
Stability	More stable, less breakage	Some report fewer update issues
Community	Large & corporate-backed	Smaller, passionate community

1. Installation: GUI-Heavy vs Minimal

Manjaro

Its Calamares installer includes hardware drivers, codecs, and desktop choices—all preconfigured—ideal for users wanting a polished, ready-to-run system.

EndeavourOS

Also uses Calamares, but installs a lean base system. You select and install desktop environments and tools after setup, offering full customization.

2. Update & Stability

Reddit users note:

“EndeavourOS… follows Arch’s changes so your system won’t break like Manjaro.” :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Manjaro delays updates for stability, but some users find those tweaks can cause breakages. EndeavourOS sticks closely to upstream Arch—less tweaking, fewer surprises.

3. Package Management Experience

Manjaro

Pamac provides a GUI interface for easy app installations and updates, including AUR support out of the box.

EndeavourOS

Relies on pacman and yay in the terminal. Users praise its simplicity and compatibility:

“Better AUR compatibility… gui tools are nice, but not essential.” :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

4. Performance & Resource Use

Manjaro includes more default packages, causing slightly higher RAM usage. Reddit and benchmarks show minimal speed differences, but EndeavourOS often boots faster and uses fewer resources. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

5. Community & Support

Manjaro benefits from a large, official support network and corporate backing. EndeavourOS offers a tighter-knit, Arch-focused community, praised for its helpfulness. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

FAQ: Common Questions

Is Manjaro safer for beginners?

Yes—its curated repos and GUI tools make it beginner-friendly. It’s a strong choice for new users wanting a smooth setup.

Can I switch from Manjaro to EndeavourOS?

Many users have—and report fewer update issues and closer alignment with Arch after switching. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

Which is closer to Arch?

EndeavourOS is essentially Arch with a GUI installer and minimal extras, mirroring the vanilla Arch experience more closely than Manjaro. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

Conclusion: Manjaro vs EndeavourOS

Your choice depends on your goals:

• Choose Manjaro if you want an easy setup, polished experience, and stability with GUI tools and curated updates.
• Choose EndeavourOS if you prefer full control, closer-to-Arch functionality, and community-driven flexibility.

Ready to Decide?

Pick your ideal distro—whether that’s the friendly convenience of Manjaro or the hands-on power of EndeavourOS. For setup tutorials and community tips, visit our Linux Guides section.

Official Arch Wiki: Arch-based distributions