AlmaLinux and Rocky Linux are two of the top contenders for those seeking a community-driven, RHEL-compatible distribution. This page dives into their strengths, weaknesses, and optimal use cases, helping you choose the best option for your specific needs.
The reliable choice
Community-driven stability
TL;DR: Pick AlmaLinux for reliable server deployments. Pick Rocky Linux for community-driven stability.
How they stack up across key categories.
AlmaLinux provides a straightforward installation process and strong community support for new server users.
Rocky Linux offers a simple installation and configuration process, appealing to both beginners and experienced users.
AlmaLinux is more server-focused, offering limited desktop customizations.
Rocky Linux also focuses on server use but can be adapted for desktop with additional configurations.
AlmaLinux delivers excellent stability with its RHEL compatibility, suitable for enterprise use.
Rocky Linux is known for its stability and reliability, making it ideal for critical applications.
AlmaLinux follows a structured update schedule, ensuring security and feature enhancements.
Rocky Linux provides timely updates that align closely with RHEL's release cycle.
AlmaLinux offers robust software repositories, leveraging RHEL's extensive package base.
Rocky Linux provides access to a wide range of software packages through its compatibility with RHEL.
AlmaLinux does not collect user data, maintaining user privacy by default.
Rocky Linux also respects user privacy, with no data collection policies.
AlmaLinux boasts a growing and active community, with comprehensive documentation available.
Rocky Linux has a strong, rapidly expanding community and provides detailed documentation.
AlmaLinux is not primarily designed for gaming but can be configured for such purposes.
Rocky Linux focuses on server stability, with gaming support requiring additional setup.
Quick recommendations for common scenarios.
Pick: Either
Both offer familiar environments with strong community support, good for new Linux users.
Pick: Rocky Linux
Rocky Linux has a rapidly growing community with a wealth of tutorials and guides.
Pick: AlmaLinux
AlmaLinux can be configured to run on older hardware with minimal resource requirements.
Pick: Either
Both can be set up for gaming, though neither is optimized out-of-the-box.
Pick: Rocky Linux
Rocky Linux's stability and RHEL compatibility make it ideal for professional environments.
Pick: AlmaLinux
AlmaLinux offers a straightforward setup for desktop users, with a focus on simplicity.
Quick answers to common questions.
Both distributions emerged as community-driven replacements for CentOS, aiming to provide a free, open-source alternative that maintains binary compatibility with RHEL.
Both are relatively beginner-friendly, though Rocky Linux's growing community might offer more resources and tutorials for newcomers.
Performance and speed are generally comparable between AlmaLinux and Rocky Linux, as both are optimized for stability and efficiency.
Yes, both AlmaLinux and Rocky Linux offer live ISOs that allow you to try the system without installing it.
Both distributions maintain full compatibility with RHEL, meaning they can run a wide array of software packages available for enterprise environments.
Hardware support is robust for both distros, benefiting from RHEL's extensive hardware compatibility lists.
Both follow a release cycle closely aligned with RHEL, offering regular updates and long-term support.
Switching between the two is relatively straightforward due to their binary compatibility with RHEL, though some configuration adjustments may be necessary.
Generate a clean "vs" page for any two distros.
