EndeavourOS
The Arch Gateway
- Arch-based with easy setup
- Rolling release model for up-to-date software
- Strong community support
- Minimal initial install with customization options
- Requires some Linux experience
- Less beginner-friendly than some distros
EndeavourOS and Parrot OS both offer unique advantages tailored to different audiences. Whether you're seeking a customizable Arch experience or a secure OS with privacy features, this page has you covered.
The Arch Gateway
Security and Privacy Focused
TL;DR: Pick EndeavourOS for Arch simplicity. Pick Parrot OS for security and privacy.
How they stack up across key categories.
EndeavourOS simplifies the Arch experience with a guided installer, making it more accessible.
Parrot OS requires more technical knowledge, especially with its security toolset, posing a steeper learning curve.
Offers a vanilla desktop experience that users can tailor to their liking, often using Xfce.
Provides a polished MATE desktop environment, focused on efficiency and usability.
Rolling release model means stability depends on timely updates and user maintenance.
Stable with regular updates, though the inclusion of numerous security tools can introduce complexity.
Frequent updates typical of a rolling release, ensuring the latest software availability.
Regular updates that include security patches and new tool enhancements.
Access to the extensive Arch User Repository (AUR) for a wide range of software packages.
Comes with pre-installed security tools and access to Debian repositories for additional software.
Does not focus specifically on privacy features but benefits from the broader Linux ecosystem's privacy options.
Designed with privacy in mind, featuring tools for anonymous browsing and secure communication.
Strong community support and extensive documentation derived from Arch Linux.
Active community focused on security expertise, with comprehensive guides and forums.
Arch base allows for easy access to gaming tools and libraries like Steam.
Not specifically optimized for gaming, though general Linux gaming support is available.
Quick recommendations for common scenarios.
Pick: EndeavourOS
Provides a familiar desktop environment and access to a wide range of software.
Pick: EndeavourOS
Arch-based system aligns well with many online Linux tutorials and guides.
Pick: Parrot OS
Its lightweight design ensures smooth performance on older machines.
Pick: EndeavourOS
Access to the AUR and Arch's latest packages makes it a great choice for gamers.
Pick: Parrot OS
Security tools and privacy features are ideal for work environments requiring confidentiality.
Pick: Either
Both offer stable environments for everyday use with distinct features suited to different needs.
Quick answers to common questions.
EndeavourOS is based on Arch Linux, while Parrot OS is based on Debian. They serve different user bases with their unique focuses.
EndeavourOS is somewhat more beginner-friendly due to its easier installation process, although both require some Linux knowledge.
Both distros perform well, but Parrot OS is more lightweight, making it suitable for older hardware or resource-constrained environments.
Yes, both EndeavourOS and Parrot OS offer live environments that allow users to test the system before committing to an installation.
EndeavourOS, through Arch, and Parrot OS, via Debian, support a wide range of software. However, specific tools may vary due to their different repositories.
Both distros support a broad range of hardware. EndeavourOS benefits from Arch's support, while Parrot OS leverages Debian's extensive compatibility.
EndeavourOS follows a rolling release model, while Parrot OS is based on Debian's stable release, with regular updates for security tools.
Switching between them requires reinstalling the OS, as they are based on different foundations (Arch vs. Debian), but user data can be migrated with proper backups.
Generate a clean "vs" page for any two distros.