EndeavourOS
Arch made simple
- Rolling release model
- Arch Linux base
- Active community support
- Easy to install
- Less stable than fixed releases
- Requires some command-line knowledge
Best for
Arch enthusiasts
EndeavourOS vs Rocky Linux
EndeavourOS and Rocky Linux are two distinct Linux distributions catering to different audiences. EndeavourOS offers a user-friendly Arch-based experience, while Rocky Linux provides a stable, enterprise-grade solution. This page explores their unique attributes to help you decide which suits your needs best.
Rocky Linux
Enterprise-ready stability
- Enterprise-grade stability
- Community-driven development
- RHEL compatibility
- Long-term support
- Slower release cycle
- Less focus on desktop enhancement
Best for
Enterprise servers
TL;DR: Pick EndeavourOS for an Arch-based desktop experience. Choose Rocky Linux for enterprise-grade stability and support.
Side-by-side comparison
How they stack up across key categories.
Ease of use
EndeavourOS
EndeavourOS simplifies the Arch Linux experience with a guided installer and community support.
Linux
Rocky Linux focuses on stability and predictability, making it slightly less user-friendly for desktop users.
Desktop feel
EndeavourOS
EndeavourOS offers multiple desktop environments, providing a customizable desktop experience.
Linux
Rocky Linux is not primarily focused on desktop environments but can be configured for such use.
Stability
EndeavourOS
As a rolling release, EndeavourOS prioritizes cutting-edge updates, which may introduce stability issues.
Linux
Rocky Linux provides excellent stability, ideal for enterprise use and servers.
Updates
EndeavourOS
Frequent updates ensure access to the latest software but require vigilance from users.
Linux
Long-term support and a slower update cycle prioritize stability and security.
Software access
EndeavourOS
Access to the Arch User Repository (AUR) allows for a wide range of software options.
Linux
RHEL compatibility ensures access to enterprise-grade software and tools.
Privacy
EndeavourOS
EndeavourOS respects user privacy with minimal data collection.
Linux
Rocky Linux maintains privacy standards suitable for enterprise environments.
Community & docs
EndeavourOS
A vibrant community provides extensive support and documentation for users.
Linux
Rocky Linux has a growing community and offers solid documentation for enterprise users.
Gaming
EndeavourOS
EndeavourOS's access to the latest software and AUR makes it a good choice for gamers.
Linux
Not primarily focused on gaming, but can be configured for gaming use.
Pros & cons summary
EndeavourOS
Pros
- EndeavourOS uses a rolling release model, ensuring users have access to the latest software updates and features.
- Being based on Arch Linux, it provides a high degree of customization and access to the AUR (Arch User Repository).
- The distribution has an active and welcoming community, offering extensive support and resources.
- EndeavourOS offers a straightforward installation process with multiple desktop environment choices, making it accessible for users familiar with Linux.
Cons
- The rolling release model can introduce instability, as new updates might cause system issues.
- Users need to have some familiarity with the command line to manage system updates and installations effectively.
- Documentation can be less comprehensive compared to more mainstream distributions.
Rocky Linux
Pros
- Rocky Linux focuses on providing enterprise-grade stability, making it ideal for production environments.
- It is developed by a community-driven organization, ensuring transparency and community input.
- Fully compatible with Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), it offers a seamless transition for RHEL users.
- The distribution provides long-term support, ensuring security and maintenance updates over extended periods.
Cons
- The slower release cycle means newer software versions are not available immediately.
- Primarily focused on servers and enterprise environments, it may lack desktop-focused features out of the box.
- The community, while growing, is still smaller compared to other enterprise distributions.
Which should you pick?
Quick recommendations for common scenarios.
Switching from Windows
Pick: EndeavourOS
EndeavourOS provides a flexible, user-friendly transition for users familiar with Windows.
Following tutorials
Pick: EndeavourOS
EndeavourOS's Arch base offers extensive tutorials and guides online.
Older hardware
Pick: Either
Both distros can be configured for performance on older hardware, though EndeavourOS may offer more lightweight desktop options.
Gaming
Pick: EndeavourOS
Access to the latest drivers and software makes EndeavourOS suitable for gaming.
Work/professional use
Pick: Rocky Linux
Rocky Linux offers the stability and support necessary for professional environments.
Simple daily desktop
Pick: EndeavourOS
EndeavourOS provides an easy-to-use, customizable experience for daily desktop use.
FAQ
Quick answers to common questions.
What is the relationship between EndeavourOS and Rocky Linux?
EndeavourOS is based on Arch Linux, while Rocky Linux is a community-driven rebuild of RHEL. They cater to different user bases and have different goals.
Which is more beginner-friendly?
EndeavourOS is more beginner-friendly for desktop users due to its guided installer, while Rocky Linux is better suited for users with enterprise experience.
How do they compare in performance and speed?
EndeavourOS might offer more up-to-date software, possibly enhancing performance, while Rocky Linux focuses on stability, which can be critical for enterprise workloads.
Can I try these distros before installing?
Yes, both EndeavourOS and Rocky Linux offer live sessions that allow you to try the system without installing it on your machine.
How compatible are they with software?
EndeavourOS provides access to a wide range of software via the Arch repositories and AUR, while Rocky Linux is compatible with enterprise-grade software.
What hardware support do they offer?
EndeavourOS supports a wide range of hardware thanks to the latest kernel updates, while Rocky Linux ensures compatibility with enterprise hardware solutions.
How do their release cycles differ?
EndeavourOS follows a rolling release model for continuous updates, while Rocky Linux opts for a stable, long-term support cycle.
Is it easy to switch between them?
Switching requires reinstalling the system as they cater to different needs and have different package management systems, but data migration is possible with proper planning.
Compare another pair?
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