Wondering which is better for developers and power users? This EndeavourOS vs Garuda Linux comparison highlights installation style, desktop experience, performance, community support, and more to help you choose confidently.
Why Compare EndeavourOS vs Garuda Linux?
Both are Arch-based, but they serve different users. EndeavourOS offers minimalism and flexibility, while Garuda focuses on performance and polish right out of the box.
Quick Comparison Table
| Aspect | EndeavourOS | Garuda Linux |
|---|---|---|
| Installer | Calamares, minimal | Calamares, feature-rich |
| Desktop Environments | Choice, minimal setup | Pre-configured KDE, Xfce, etc. |
| Kernel | Linux (LTS optional) | Zen kernel by default |
| Filesystem | ext4/Btrfs optional | Btrfs + Snapper snapshots |
| Performance tweaks | User-installed | Pre-enabled zRAM, fstrim, compression |
| Ease of Use | Granular control | Out‑of‑box polish |
| Community | Welcoming Arch-focused | Growing and gaming‑oriented |
1. Installation Experience
EndeavourOS uses Calamares to offer a lean installation—simple and close to vanilla Arch. You’ll choose DE and add only what you need.
Garuda Linux also uses Calamares, but includes pre-installed themes, performance tools, and utilities like the Zen kernel and Snapper snapshots for automatic rollback.
2. System Customization & Desktop
EndeavourOS: Full Control
After install, you configure everything: from desktop choice to filesystem and kernel. Ideal for users who want total control.
Garuda Linux: Polished Defaults
Out-of-box includes zRAM, Btrfs with automatic snapshots, performance tools, and the flashy ‘Dr460nized’ KDE — ready for daily use and gaming.
3. Performance & Kernel Choices
Garuda’s default Zen kernel is tuned for responsive desktop performance :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}. However, forums note its gains are often mild versus stability considerations :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}. You can install the same kernels on Endeavour both distros.
4. Community & Support
EndeavourOS provides a friendly, Arch-focused community centered on helping users learn and tweak :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
Garuda Linux forums are growing and geared toward performance-focused users. Many tools and themes make it beginner-friendly despite its power-oriented features :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
FAQs: EndeavourOS vs Garuda Linux
Can I use the Zen kernel on EndeavourOS?
Yes—it’s available in Arch repos and can be installed via `sudo pacman -S linux-zen linux-zen-headers` :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
Does Garuda support Btrfs snapshots?
Yes—Garuda ships with Btrfs, Snapper, and bootloader snapshot support enabled by default :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
Which is lighter on resources?
EndeavourOS has minimal overhead. Garuda uses extra RAM for zRAM and visual effects but has performance tweaks built-in :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.
Conclusion: Which One Wins?
Choosing between EndeavourOS vs Garuda Linux comes down to your priorities:
- Go with EndeavourOS if you prefer a lightweight, DIY approach with full control.
- Choose Garuda Linux if you want a polished, performance-optimized system with useful tools out of the box.
Ready to Make Your Choice?
Select the distro that fits your style—minimal freedom or polished performance—and start your Arch journey today. Want more detailed walkthroughs or setup guides? Visit our Arch Distros Hub.
Official Arch Wiki: Arch-based distributions
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