EndeavourOS
Arch for everyone
- Arch-based simplicity
- Rolling release model
- Minimalist installation
- Strong community support
- Steeper learning curve
- Limited pre-installed software
Best for
Arch enthusiasts
EndeavourOS vs Pop!_OS
EndeavourOS and Pop!_OS are two popular Linux distributions catering to different user needs. This comparison covers their features, strengths, and ideal use cases, helping you choose the right one.
Pop!_OS
Linux for creators
- User-friendly interface
- Optimized for gaming
- Excellent hardware support
- Frequent, reliable updates
- Heavier on system resources
- Less customization flexibility
Best for
Creative professionals
TL;DR: Pick EndeavourOS for a customizable, Arch-based experience. Choose Pop!_OS for a user-friendly setup and optimized hardware support.
Side-by-side comparison
How they stack up across key categories.
Ease of use
EndeavourOS
EndeavourOS targets users familiar with Linux, providing a less guided experience but with powerful customization options.
Pop!_OS
Pop!_OS offers a more guided and user-friendly experience, ideal for newcomers and those seeking a polished interface.
Desktop feel
EndeavourOS
EndeavourOS provides a lightweight and customizable desktop environment, suiting users who prefer minimalism.
Pop!_OS
Pop!_OS delivers a sleek and modern desktop feel, focusing on aesthetics and functionality right out of the box.
Stability
EndeavourOS
As a rolling release, EndeavourOS provides the latest updates, which might affect stability for some users.
Pop!_OS
Pop!_OS offers stable updates that are thoroughly tested, ensuring a reliable experience for all users.
Updates
EndeavourOS
EndeavourOS follows a rolling release model, allowing continuous updates without needing major upgrades.
Pop!_OS
Pop!_OS follows a more traditional release cycle, offering regular and predictable updates.
Software access
EndeavourOS
EndeavourOS provides access to the Arch User Repository (AUR), offering a vast range of software packages.
Pop!_OS
Pop!_OS comes with a curated selection of software, with easy access to additional applications through its app store.
Privacy
EndeavourOS
EndeavourOS does not include telemetry by default, offering a privacy-focused environment.
Pop!_OS
Pop!_OS respects user privacy with no telemetry, providing a secure environment for users.
Community & docs
EndeavourOS
EndeavourOS has a strong community and leverages Arch's extensive documentation.
Pop!_OS
Pop!_OS benefits from System76's support and has an active community with helpful resources.
Gaming
EndeavourOS
EndeavourOS can be configured for gaming, leveraging Arch's flexibility and the AUR for game-related packages.
Pop!_OS
Pop!_OS is optimized for gaming with built-in drivers and support for popular gaming platforms.
Pros & cons summary
EndeavourOS
Pros
- EndeavourOS provides a streamlined way to access the power of Arch Linux without the complex installation process.
- The rolling release model ensures users receive the latest software updates and features continuously.
- Its minimalist approach allows users to build their system from the ground up, installing only what they need.
- The community is highly active and supportive, providing assistance and comprehensive documentation.
Cons
- Newcomers to Linux might find the learning curve steep compared to more user-friendly distros.
- Users may need to manually install and configure a broader range of software and tools post-installation.
Pop!_OS
Pros
- Pop!_OS offers a sleek, intuitive user interface that's especially welcoming to new Linux users.
- It includes out-of-the-box support for gaming, with drivers and optimizations for a seamless experience.
- The OS is developed by System76 and optimized for its hardware, ensuring robust support and performance.
- It features frequent updates that maintain system stability and introduce new features regularly.
Cons
- The default Gnome-based environment may demand more system resources than lighter alternatives.
- While polished, the desktop environment offers less flexibility for deep customization compared to other distros.
Which should you pick?
Quick recommendations for common scenarios.
Switching from Windows
Pick: Pop!_OS
Its user-friendly interface and polished experience make it ideal for Windows switchers.
Following tutorials
Pick: EndeavourOS
Its Arch base is well-documented, making it easier to find tutorials and guides.
Older hardware
Pick: EndeavourOS
Its minimalist approach allows for a lightweight setup that can run efficiently on older systems.
Gaming
Pick: Pop!_OS
Optimized drivers and configurations provide a seamless gaming experience.
Work/professional use
Pick: Pop!_OS
Offers a stable and secure environment with excellent hardware support.
Simple daily desktop
Pick: Either
Both provide reliable systems for everyday tasks, depending on user preference for customization.
FAQ
Quick answers to common questions.
What is the relationship between EndeavourOS and Pop!_OS?
They are separate projects with different goals: EndeavourOS is Arch-based, while Pop!_OS is built on Ubuntu.
Which distro is more beginner-friendly?
Pop!_OS is generally considered more beginner-friendly due to its polished user interface and ease of use.
How do the distros compare in terms of performance and speed?
EndeavourOS can be lighter and faster on older hardware due to its minimalist approach, while Pop!_OS is optimized for modern systems.
Can I try these distros before installing?
Yes, both offer live environments that allow you to test features and compatibility before installation.
How do these distros handle software compatibility?
EndeavourOS uses Arch's AUR for extensive software access, while Pop!_OS provides a curated set of applications with additional options via its app store.
What about hardware support?
Pop!_OS excels in hardware support, especially for System76 devices, while EndeavourOS relies on Arch's broad hardware compatibility.
How often do these distros release updates?
EndeavourOS follows a rolling release model with continuous updates, whereas Pop!_OS has regular, scheduled updates.
Is it easy to switch between these distros?
Switching involves reinstalling the OS, but both provide straightforward installation processes. User data should be backed up beforehand.
Compare another pair?
Generate a clean "vs" page for any two distros.