EndeavourOS vs MX Linux

EndeavourOS and MX Linux are both popular choices for Linux users, each offering unique strengths. This page explores their differences in usability, updates, and community support to help you decide which better suits your needs.

Endeavouros Icon

EndeavourOS

The Arch way, simplified

  • Arch-based with easy installation
  • Rolling release model for latest software
  • Highly customizable desktop environments
  • Strong community support
  • Can overwhelm beginners with choices
  • Requires more manual configuration
Best for Arch enthusiasts
Mx Linux Icon

MX Linux

Stable and user-friendly

  • Debian-based stability
  • Excellent hardware compatibility
  • Comprehensive set of tools
  • Live USB support with persistence
  • Not a rolling release
  • Limited desktop environment choices
Best for Everyday desktop use

TL;DR: Pick EndeavourOS for latest software and customization. Pick MX Linux for stability and ease of use.

Side-by-side comparison

How they stack up across key categories.

Ease of use

EndeavourOS

EndeavourOS simplifies the Arch experience with an easy installer but still requires familiarity with Linux.

Linux

MX Linux is very user-friendly, offering a smooth out-of-the-box experience suitable for beginners.

Desktop feel

EndeavourOS

EndeavourOS allows for extensive customization with multiple desktop environments available.

Linux

MX Linux primarily uses XFCE, offering a traditional and efficient desktop experience.

Stability

EndeavourOS

As a rolling release, EndeavourOS might experience occasional instability with new updates.

Linux

MX Linux is based on Debian Stable, ensuring a highly reliable and stable system.

Updates

EndeavourOS

EndeavourOS provides continuous updates, keeping software current but needing regular attention.

Linux

MX Linux follows a stable release cycle, with updates focused on security and stability.

Software access

EndeavourOS

Access to the AUR gives EndeavourOS users an extensive array of software options.

Linux

MX Linux provides a robust selection of software from Debian repositories and additional MX tools.

Privacy

EndeavourOS

EndeavourOS, like Arch, respects user privacy with minimal telemetry.

Linux

MX Linux emphasizes privacy with strong default settings and minimal data collection.

Community & docs

EndeavourOS

EndeavourOS has a growing community with excellent documentation and support forums.

Linux

MX Linux boasts a dedicated community and comprehensive documentation, making it accessible for all users.

Gaming

EndeavourOS

EndeavourOS, with its access to the latest drivers and software, is well-suited for gaming.

Linux

MX Linux can handle gaming but might require manual updates for the latest drivers and tools.

Pros & cons summary

EndeavourOS

Pros

  • EndeavourOS offers a user-friendly installer that simplifies the process of setting up an Arch-based system.
  • As a rolling release distro, it provides access to the latest software updates and features.
  • Users can choose from multiple desktop environments during installation, allowing for a tailored experience.
  • The community is active and supportive, offering guidance for both new and advanced users.
  • The integration with Arch's AUR (Arch User Repository) provides extensive software availability.

Cons

  • New users might find the myriad of options and configurations overwhelming compared to more streamlined distros.
  • EndeavourOS requires more manual configuration post-installation, which can be challenging for those unfamiliar with Linux.

MX Linux

Pros

  • MX Linux is renowned for its stability, being based on Debian, which ensures a reliable experience.
  • The distro includes a wide range of tools and utilities designed to simplify system management and customization.
  • MX Linux offers excellent out-of-the-box hardware support, making it suitable for a variety of systems.
  • The option to run as a live USB with persistence is great for testing and portability.
  • MX's MX Tools provide a unique suite of applications for easy system configuration and maintenance.

Cons

  • As a non-rolling release, it does not offer the latest software as quickly as rolling distros like EndeavourOS.
  • The default XFCE desktop environment, while lightweight and efficient, might not appeal to users seeking more modern interfaces.

Which should you pick?

Quick recommendations for common scenarios.

💻

Switching from Windows

Pick: MX Linux

MX Linux offers a more familiar and stable environment for newcomers.

📚

Following Linux tutorials

Pick: EndeavourOS

EndeavourOS aligns closely with Arch, making it ideal for learning and following diverse Linux tutorials.

🖥️

Older hardware

Pick: MX Linux

MX Linux's lightweight XFCE desktop is optimized for older systems, providing better performance.

🎮

Gaming

Pick: EndeavourOS

With its access to the latest drivers and AUR, EndeavourOS is ideal for gaming enthusiasts.

💼

Work/professional use

Pick: MX Linux

MX Linux's stability and comprehensive toolset make it a solid choice for professional environments.

🖱️

Simple daily desktop

Pick: Either

Both distros provide reliable options for everyday desktop use, depending on user preference for updates.

FAQ

Quick answers to common questions.

How are EndeavourOS and MX Linux related?

They are not directly related but share the Linux base. EndeavourOS is Arch-based, while MX Linux is based on Debian.

Which is more beginner-friendly?

MX Linux is more beginner-friendly due to its stable and intuitive setup, whereas EndeavourOS requires more Linux knowledge.

Which performs better?

Performance depends on use case; MX Linux is optimized for stability, while EndeavourOS offers cutting-edge software, which can affect speed.

Can I try them before installing?

Yes, both distros offer live environments that allow you to test them without installation, with MX Linux also supporting persistence.

What about software compatibility?

EndeavourOS has a wider range of software through AUR, while MX Linux benefits from Debian's extensive repositories.

How is hardware support?

MX Linux generally offers better out-of-the-box hardware support, while EndeavourOS may require additional configuration for certain devices.

What are the release cycles?

EndeavourOS is a rolling release with continuous updates, while MX Linux follows a stable, less frequent release cycle.

How easy is switching between them?

Switching involves reinstalling, as they use different package managers and base systems, but both have supportive communities to assist.

Compare another pair?

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