Manjaro and Solus are two popular Linux distributions that offer distinct approaches to desktop computing. This page explores their key differences, strengths, and scenarios where each might be the better choice.
The comfortable choice
Designed for everyone
TL;DR: Pick Manjaro for a user-friendly Arch experience. Choose Solus for a sleek, independent desktop.
How they stack up across key categories.
Manjaro offers an Arch-based experience with a simplified installation process and user-friendly interface.
Solus provides a straightforward setup with a focus on a clean, intuitive user experience through its Budgie desktop.
Manjaro supports multiple desktop environments, allowing users to customize their experience to their liking.
Solus focuses on the Budgie desktop, offering a consistent and polished user interface.
As a rolling release, Manjaro can occasionally face stability challenges with new updates.
Solus combines rolling updates with a focus on stability, ensuring reliability alongside new features.
Manjaro's rolling release model provides the latest software updates continuously.
Solus also follows a rolling release model but carefully curates updates to maintain system stability.
Manjaro has access to Arch's extensive AUR repository, offering a vast array of software options.
Solus has a smaller repository but covers the essentials for most users, with a focus on curated applications.
Manjaro respects user privacy and offers tools to enhance privacy settings.
Solus prioritizes user privacy and does not include unnecessary telemetry.
Manjaro benefits from a large and active community with extensive documentation and forums.
Solus has a smaller community, but it is dedicated and provides helpful resources and forums.
Manjaro's access to the AUR and excellent hardware support make it a good choice for gaming.
Solus offers good performance for gaming, with support for Steam and other gaming platforms.
Quick recommendations for common scenarios.
Pick: Manjaro
Manjaro offers a familiar desktop environment with extensive resources for newcomers.
Pick: Manjaro
Its Arch base means many tutorials and resources are readily applicable.
Pick: Solus
Solus is optimized for performance, making it suitable for older systems.
Pick: Either
Both distros offer good support for gaming, including Steam and proprietary drivers.
Pick: Solus
Solus offers stable performance with essential productivity tools.
Pick: Solus
Solus provides a clean, easy-to-use interface ideal for daily tasks.
Quick answers to common questions.
No, Manjaro is based on Arch Linux, while Solus is an independent distribution developed from scratch.
Manjaro is generally more beginner-friendly due to its larger community and extensive resources. However, Solus is also accessible for newcomers.
Solus is optimized for performance and tends to run efficiently on various hardware. Manjaro also performs well but can be more resource-intensive depending on the desktop environment.
Yes, both Manjaro and Solus offer live versions that you can boot from a USB to try before installing them on your system.
Both distros have good software compatibility, but Manjaro has access to the extensive Arch User Repository (AUR), providing more options.
Manjaro has excellent hardware support, especially for newer devices. Solus also supports a wide range of hardware but may have limitations with certain components.
Both are rolling release distributions, meaning they continuously update rather than following a traditional release cycle. Solus emphasizes stability in its updates.
Switching involves backing up your data and reinstalling the desired system. While it's straightforward, it requires some preparation, especially for managing data and software configurations.
Generate a clean "vs" page for any two distros.
