Beyond Ubuntu: Exploring Arch Linux and Manjaro
For many Linux beginners, Ubuntu is the go-to distribution. However, as users gain more experience, they may find themselves seeking more flexibility and power. This is where Arch Linux and Manjaro come in – two popular distributions that cater to users with a do-it-yourself attitude.
The Rise of Arch and Manjaro
Historically, a decrease in adoption by gamers has been an early indicator of an operating system being dropped. According to boilingstream.com, Ubuntu’s popularity among gamers has declined significantly since 2019. In contrast, Arch and Manjaro have gained popularity, with Arch surpassing Ubuntu in adoption rates.
Arch Linux: A Minimalist Approach
Arch Linux is known for its minimalist approach, focusing on customization and simplicity. The installation process is command-line based, making it more complex and less beginner-friendly. However, Arch users can rely on the comprehensive ArchWiki documentation and the support of the community.
Manjaro: A User-Friendly Alternative
Manjaro is based on Arch Linux but offers a more user-friendly experience. The installation process is GUI-based, and the distribution comes with pre-installed applications such as Pamac, a graphical package manager. Manjaro also offers different flavors, each with its own desktop environment.
Comparison Time
So, how do Arch and Manjaro compare? Let’s take a look at some key areas:
Rolling-Release Model
Both Arch and Manjaro follow a rolling-release model, ensuring that users receive frequent updates and don’t need to reinstall their system. However, Manjaro maintains its own independent repositories, which can lead to a delay in updates compared to Arch.
Package Management
Both distributions use Pacman as their package manager, but Manjaro also offers a graphical tool called Pamac. Additionally, Manjaro has access to the Arch User Repository (AUR), which provides user-produced content.
Drivers
Manjaro makes it easier to install drivers, especially GPU drivers, with its hardware detection tool (MHWD). Arch users, on the other hand, need to find and install drivers manually.
Installation Procedure
Arch’s installation process is more complex and requires manual configuration. Manjaro’s installation process is GUI-based and offers different flavors with predefined desktop environments.
Security
Arch’s security depends on user configuration, while Manjaro has faced criticism in the past for downplaying security practices. However, both distributions provide resources for users to harden their systems.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between Arch and Manjaro depends on personal preference. Arch is ideal for advanced users who want complete control over their system, while Manjaro offers a more user-friendly experience. If you’re looking for a balance between flexibility and ease of use, Manjaro might be the perfect starting point.