Linux Mint vs Manjaro: how they differ
Linux Mint and Manjaro 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: Linux Mint is built on Ubuntu, while Manjaro is built on Arch.
- Desktop: Linux Mint uses Cinnamon; Manjaro uses Xfce, KDE Plasma or GNOME.
- Software tools: Linux Mint uses apt and Flatpak; Manjaro uses pacman, so the commands you learn for one do not carry over.
- Releases: Linux Mint uses long-term releases that stay supported for years; Manjaro uses a rolling release, so updates arrive continuously with no big version jumps.
- Memory: about 4 GB for Linux Mint against about 4 GB for Manjaro is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Choose Linux Mint if
You are among the people moving from Windows who want a familiar, conservative desktop that rarely changes.
Choose Manjaro if
You are among the people who want Arch's software with an easier installer and curated updates.
Quick answers
- Which is easier for a beginner? Linux Mint is generally the easier first step.
- 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 Linux Mint USB drive or the Manjaro USB drive. Learn more: what is Linux Mint and what is Manjaro.
Software commands compared
- Linux Mint:
sudo apt install name - Manjaro:
sudo pacman -S name
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Linux Mint or Manjaro?
Neither is better for everyone. Choose by what you need: Linux Mint suits people moving from Windows who want a familiar, conservative desktop that rarely changes, while Manjaro suits people who want Arch's software with an easier installer and curated updates.
Can I install both Linux Mint and Manjaro?
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, Linux Mint or Manjaro?
Linux Mint uses long-term releases that stay supported for years; Manjaro uses a rolling release, so updates arrive continuously with no big version jumps.