EndeavourOS vs Linux Lite

EndeavourOS and Linux Lite are two distinct Linux distributions catering to different user needs. EndeavourOS offers an Arch-based experience with rolling updates, while Linux Lite provides a lightweight and user-friendly environment ideal for beginners. This page explores their pros, cons, and best use cases.

Endeavouros Icon

EndeavourOS

Arch-based simplicity

  • Arch-based with easy installer
  • Access to AUR for more software
  • Rolling release model
  • Active and helpful community
  • Less beginner-friendly than some other distros
  • Requires more manual configuration
Best for Advanced users
Linux Lite Icon

Linux Lite

Beginner-friendly simplicity

  • Lightweight and resource-efficient
  • User-friendly with familiar interface
  • Out-of-the-box functionality
  • Strong community support
  • Limited customization options
  • Not a rolling release
Best for Older hardware

TL;DR: Pick EndeavourOS for an Arch-based system with cutting-edge updates. Choose Linux Lite for a lightweight, user-friendly experience on older hardware.

Side-by-side comparison

How they stack up across key categories.

Ease of use

EndeavourOS

EndeavourOS provides a simplified Arch installation but requires some Linux knowledge for effective use.

Lite

Linux Lite is designed with ease of use in mind, offering a familiar interface ideal for beginners.

Desktop feel

EndeavourOS

EndeavourOS uses a variety of desktop environments, allowing users to choose based on preference.

Lite

Linux Lite uses the XFCE desktop, offering a simple and efficient user experience resembling older Windows layouts.

Stability

EndeavourOS

Being a rolling release, EndeavourOS is stable but requires attention to updates to ensure system health.

Lite

Linux Lite's fixed release cycle provides a stable and tested environment, ideal for users who prefer less frequent updates.

Updates

EndeavourOS

EndeavourOS follows a rolling release model, ensuring users always have the latest software.

Lite

Linux Lite provides updates through a fixed cycle, which may delay new software releases but ensures stability.

Software access

EndeavourOS

Access to the AUR in EndeavourOS means a vast array of software is just a command away.

Lite

Linux Lite offers essential software out-of-the-box, with additional packages available through its repositories.

Privacy

EndeavourOS

EndeavourOS, being Arch-based, aligns with Arch's philosophy of user autonomy and privacy.

Lite

Linux Lite respects user privacy and does not include telemetry by default.

Community & docs

EndeavourOS

EndeavourOS benefits from both its own community and the extensive Arch Linux documentation.

Lite

Linux Lite has a dedicated community focused on providing guidance and support for new users.

Gaming

EndeavourOS

EndeavourOS supports gaming well due to its rolling nature and access to the latest drivers.

Lite

Linux Lite is capable of gaming but may require additional setup for optimal performance.

Pros & cons summary

EndeavourOS

Pros

  • EndeavourOS offers an easy-to-use installer for an Arch-based system, making it accessible while retaining Arch's flexibility.
  • The Arch User Repository (AUR) provides users with access to a vast library of software beyond official repositories.
  • As a rolling release, EndeavourOS ensures users always have access to the latest software updates without needing a complete reinstall.
  • The community around EndeavourOS is active and provides extensive support through forums and online resources.

Cons

  • EndeavourOS is less beginner-friendly due to its Arch roots, which require users to have some familiarity with Linux.
  • While the installation is simplified, users may need to manually configure certain aspects of the system post-installation.
  • Documentation, while extensive, can be overwhelming for new users unfamiliar with Arch Linux.

Linux Lite

Pros

  • Linux Lite is designed to be lightweight, making it ideal for older or less powerful hardware.
  • The XFCE desktop environment provides a familiar and user-friendly interface that is easy for Windows switchers to navigate.
  • Linux Lite includes a wide range of pre-installed software, providing immediate functionality after installation.
  • The community offers robust support through forums, making it easy for newcomers to find help.

Cons

  • Linux Lite's focus on simplicity means it offers fewer customization options compared to more advanced distros like EndeavourOS.
  • Unlike rolling release models, Linux Lite follows a fixed release cycle, meaning software updates may lag behind.
  • While the system is stable, it may not appeal to users looking for cutting-edge software versions.

Which should you pick?

Quick recommendations for common scenarios.

💻

Switching from Windows

Pick: Linux Lite

Linux Lite offers a familiar interface and easy transition for Windows users.

🖥️

Following tutorials

Pick: EndeavourOS

EndeavourOS aligns with Arch, making it ideal for those following Arch Linux tutorials.

🖴

Using older hardware

Pick: Linux Lite

Linux Lite is optimized for performance on older machines with limited resources.

🎮

Gaming

Pick: EndeavourOS

EndeavourOS's rolling release keeps gaming-related software up-to-date, ensuring better performance.

💼

Work/professional use

Pick: Either

Both distros can be configured for professional use depending on specific software needs.

🖱️

Simple daily desktop

Pick: Linux Lite

Linux Lite provides a straightforward and efficient environment for daily desktop tasks.

FAQ

Quick answers to common questions.

Are EndeavourOS and Linux Lite related?

EndeavourOS is based on Arch Linux, while Linux Lite is based on Ubuntu. They are not directly related but share open-source roots.

Which is more beginner-friendly?

Linux Lite is more beginner-friendly, offering a familiar desktop experience and extensive documentation tailored for new users.

How do they compare in terms of performance?

Linux Lite is more lightweight and efficient for older hardware, whereas EndeavourOS can be tailored for performance with a more hands-on approach.

Can I try these distros before installing?

Yes, both EndeavourOS and Linux Lite offer live sessions that allow you to test them directly from the installation media.

What about software compatibility?

EndeavourOS offers extensive compatibility through the AUR, while Linux Lite provides a curated set of software with additional options via Ubuntu's repositories.

How is hardware support in each distro?

Linux Lite tends to have better out-of-the-box hardware support due to its Ubuntu base, while EndeavourOS may require additional configuration.

What are the release cycles for these distros?

EndeavourOS is a rolling release, providing constant updates. Linux Lite follows a fixed release cycle, focusing on stability.

Is it easy to switch between these distros?

Switching requires reinstalling the system, but both distros offer straightforward installation processes to make the transition smoother.

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