openSUSE and Rocky Linux are two well-regarded Linux distributions, each catering to different user needs. Whether you seek a versatile desktop experience or enterprise-grade stability, this comparison highlights their key differences to help you decide.
The versatile choice
The enterprise staple
TL;DR: Pick openSUSE for desktop flexibility. Choose Rocky Linux for enterprise stability.
How they stack up across key categories.
openSUSE can be complex for newcomers due to its vast configuration options and tools like YaST.
Rocky Linux offers a straightforward experience tailored for stability, though not as beginner-friendly for desktop users.
openSUSE provides varied desktop environments with strong customization features.
Rocky Linux is more focused on simplicity and reliability, often using GNOME as its default DE.
openSUSE Leap is renowned for stability, while Tumbleweed provides cutting-edge updates.
Rocky Linux is designed for long-term stability, closely following RHEL's release cycle.
openSUSE Tumbleweed offers rolling updates, while Leap follows a fixed release schedule.
Rocky Linux follows RHEL's update cycle, focusing on security and stability over frequent updates.
openSUSE has a vast repository and supports Flatpak and Snap for additional applications.
Rocky Linux provides access to EPEL and other enterprise-focused repositories for software.
openSUSE emphasizes user privacy with customizable security settings.
Rocky Linux maintains strong privacy protocols, aligning with RHEL's enterprise security standards.
openSUSE has a large, active community and detailed documentation available.
Rocky Linux boasts a rapidly growing community and comprehensive documentation.
openSUSE supports gaming through Steam and Lutris, though not as optimized as gaming-centric distros.
Rocky Linux is not specifically designed for gaming, focusing more on enterprise applications.
Quick recommendations for common scenarios.
Pick: openSUSE
Its flexible desktop environments and strong community support make the transition smoother.
Pick: Either
Both distros have extensive documentation and active communities to support learning.
Pick: openSUSE
openSUSE's flexibility allows for lighter desktop environments that perform better on older machines.
Pick: openSUSE
Better support for gaming platforms like Steam and Lutris.
Pick: Rocky Linux
Its enterprise focus and RHEL compatibility make it ideal for professional environments.
Pick: openSUSE
Offers a more comprehensive desktop experience with a variety of user-friendly environments.
Quick answers to common questions.
openSUSE is a community-driven project sponsored by SUSE, while Rocky Linux is a community-driven rebuild of RHEL, focusing on enterprise needs.
openSUSE may be more approachable for beginners due to its variety of desktop environments and community support. Rocky Linux is more enterprise-focused.
Both distros are optimized for performance, but openSUSE might offer more speed flexibility with different desktop environments and Tumbleweed's latest updates.
Yes, both openSUSE and Rocky Linux offer live versions that can be run from a USB or DVD without installing to your hard drive.
openSUSE supports a wide range of software through its repositories, Flatpak, and Snap, while Rocky Linux focuses on enterprise software compatibility.
Both distros offer strong hardware support, but openSUSE's broader community might provide quicker support for consumer hardware. Rocky Linux aligns with enterprise hardware.
openSUSE Tumbleweed is rolling, updating continuously. Leap follows a regular release schedule. Rocky Linux follows RHEL's cycle, focusing on stable updates.
Switching involves reinstalling the operating system and configuring settings. Both have strong communities to assist with transitions.
Generate a clean "vs" page for any two distros.
