EndeavourOS vs Tails

EndeavourOS and Tails represent two unique takes on Linux: one focuses on making Arch Linux accessible, while the other prioritizes privacy. This page examines their strengths, weaknesses, and ideal use cases to help you make an informed choice.

Endeavouros Icon

EndeavourOS

Arch made easy

  • Arch Linux foundation
  • Active and helpful community
  • Wide range of desktop environments
  • Rolling release model
  • Requires some Linux knowledge
  • Less user-friendly than some alternatives
Best for Arch enthusiasts
Tails Icon

Tails

Privacy-focused OS

  • Strong privacy and security
  • Amnesic mode for data protection
  • Tor integration
  • Runs from a USB stick
  • Limited software availability
  • Not suited for regular desktop use
Best for Privacy advocates

TL;DR: Pick EndeavourOS for a user-friendly Arch experience. Pick Tails for enhanced privacy.

Side-by-side comparison

How they stack up across key categories.

Ease of use

EndeavourOS

EndeavourOS offers a more accessible Arch experience with easy installation and configuration tools.

Tails

Tails is designed for specific use cases and is not intended for everyday use, but is straightforward for its intended purpose.

Desktop feel

EndeavourOS

EndeavourOS provides a customizable desktop environment based on user choice during installation.

Tails

Tails uses GNOME with a focus on simplicity and security, offering a consistent look and feel.

Stability

EndeavourOS

As a rolling release, EndeavourOS receives frequent updates, which can impact stability.

Tails

Tails prioritizes security over stability, but is generally stable for its intended use.

Updates

EndeavourOS

EndeavourOS follows a rolling release model, providing continuous updates.

Tails

Tails releases updates regularly to address security vulnerabilities and improve functionality.

Software access

EndeavourOS

EndeavourOS has access to Arch's vast repository and AUR, offering a wide range of software.

Tails

Tails offers a limited selection of software focused on privacy and security.

Privacy

EndeavourOS

EndeavourOS does not specifically focus on privacy beyond standard Linux practices.

Tails

Tails is built around privacy, with features like Tor integration and amnesic mode.

Community & docs

EndeavourOS

The EndeavourOS community is active and provides comprehensive documentation and support.

Tails

Tails has extensive documentation focused on privacy and security practices.

Gaming

EndeavourOS

EndeavourOS supports gaming through Steam and Lutris, thanks to Arch's repositories.

Tails

Tails is not suitable for gaming due to its focus on security and privacy.

Pros & cons summary

EndeavourOS

Pros

  • EndeavourOS is based on Arch Linux, providing access to the Arch User Repository (AUR) and a vast array of software packages.
  • The community is known for being very welcoming and provides extensive support via forums and online resources.
  • Users can choose from multiple desktop environments, such as Xfce, KDE Plasma, and GNOME, during installation.
  • As a rolling release, EndeavourOS offers frequent updates, ensuring users have the latest software and features.

Cons

  • EndeavourOS, while easier than Arch itself, still requires some command-line knowledge and understanding of Linux systems.
  • Compared to more beginner-friendly distros like Ubuntu, EndeavourOS may seem less intuitive for new users.

Tails

Pros

  • Tails is designed for privacy, leaving no trace on the physical machine after use.
  • It includes an amnesic mode that ensures no data is saved between sessions unless specified by the user.
  • Tails comes pre-configured with Tor, providing anonymous internet browsing out of the box.
  • The entire operating system runs from a USB stick, making it portable and easy to use on any compatible device.

Cons

  • Due to its focus on security, Tails limits the software that can be installed, restricting user options.
  • Tails is not intended for daily use as a primary OS due to its design for temporary sessions and limited persistence.

Which should you pick?

Quick recommendations for common scenarios.

💻

Switching from Windows

Pick: EndeavourOS

EndeavourOS provides a more familiar desktop experience with a wide range of applications.

🔍

Following tutorials

Pick: EndeavourOS

The vast Arch community provides numerous tutorials that can be easily followed.

🖥️

Older hardware

Pick: EndeavourOS

Offers lightweight desktop environments suitable for older machines.

🎮

Gaming

Pick: EndeavourOS

Supports gaming through Steam and Lutris with access to necessary drivers.

💼

Work/professional use

Pick: EndeavourOS

Provides a stable environment with access to productivity tools.

🧑‍💻

Simple daily desktop

Pick: Either

EndeavourOS for versatility, Tails for privacy-focused tasks.

FAQ

Quick answers to common questions.

Are EndeavourOS and Tails related?

No, EndeavourOS is based on Arch Linux, while Tails is based on Debian. They serve different purposes.

Which is more beginner-friendly?

EndeavourOS is more beginner-friendly compared to Tails, which is designed for privacy rather than ease of use.

How do these distros perform in terms of speed?

EndeavourOS provides a fast experience due to its lightweight nature, while Tails focuses on privacy, which may impact speed.

Can I try these distros before installing?

Yes, both EndeavourOS and Tails can be run from a live USB to try them out without installation.

What about software compatibility?

EndeavourOS offers extensive software support via Arch’s repositories, while Tails limits software to maintain security.

How is hardware support?

EndeavourOS benefits from Arch's wide hardware support, while Tails works well on most hardware but focuses on security.

How are the release cycles?

EndeavourOS is a rolling release, constantly updated. Tails has a set release schedule focusing on security updates.

Can I switch between these distros easily?

Switching between EndeavourOS and Tails involves different installation processes since they serve different purposes.

Compare another pair?

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