AlmaLinux vs Rocky Linux: how they differ
AlmaLinux and Rocky Linux are often considered side by side. This page compares what each one is built on, how it looks, how software is installed, how updates arrive and what hardware it needs.
Key differences
- Foundation: both are built on RHEL-compatible, so much of the help, software and troubleshooting advice for one applies to the other.
- Desktop: both use GNOME.
- Software tools: both use dnf, so install commands are the same.
- Releases: both follow long-term releases that stay supported for years.
- Memory: about 2 GB for AlmaLinux against about 2 GB for Rocky Linux is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Choose AlmaLinux if
You are among the people running servers or workstations who want Red Hat Enterprise Linux compatibility and long support.
Choose Rocky Linux if
You are among the people running servers or workstations who want Red Hat Enterprise Linux compatibility and long support.
Quick answers
- Which is easier for a beginner? Neither is aimed at first-time users. If this is your first Linux system, try a beginner-friendly distribution first.
- Which suits older hardware? They ask for a similar amount of memory.
- Can I try both? Yes. Start each from a live USB drive without installing, or put both on one drive with Ventoy.
Browse the AlmaLinux USB drive or the Rocky Linux USB drive. Learn more: what is AlmaLinux and what is Rocky Linux.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, AlmaLinux or Rocky Linux?
Neither is better for everyone. Choose by what you need: AlmaLinux suits people running servers or workstations who want Red Hat Enterprise Linux compatibility and long support, while Rocky Linux suits people running servers or workstations who want Red Hat Enterprise Linux compatibility and long support.
Can I install both AlmaLinux and Rocky Linux?
Yes. Install each one on its own partition, or try both from a live USB drive first. See dual booting for the idea, which also works between two Linux systems.
Which gets updates faster, AlmaLinux or Rocky Linux?
AlmaLinux uses long-term releases that stay supported for years; Rocky Linux uses long-term releases that stay supported for years.