Manjaro vs Garuda Linux: how they differ
Manjaro and Garuda 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 Arch, so much of the help, software and troubleshooting advice for one applies to the other.
- Desktop: Manjaro uses Xfce, KDE Plasma or GNOME; Garuda Linux uses KDE Plasma.
- Software tools: both use pacman, so install commands are the same.
- Releases: both follow a rolling release, so updates arrive continuously with no big version jumps.
- Memory: about 4 GB for Manjaro against about 8 GB for Garuda Linux is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Choose Manjaro if
You are among the people who want Arch's software with an easier installer and curated updates.
Choose Garuda Linux if
You are among the people with a capable computer who want a polished, gaming-friendly Arch-based desktop.
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? Manjaro asks for less 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 Manjaro USB drive or the Garuda Linux USB drive. Learn more: what is Manjaro and what is Garuda Linux.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Manjaro or Garuda Linux?
Neither is better for everyone. Choose by what you need: Manjaro suits people who want Arch's software with an easier installer and curated updates, while Garuda Linux suits people with a capable computer who want a polished, gaming-friendly Arch-based desktop.
Can I install both Manjaro and Garuda 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, Manjaro or Garuda Linux?
Manjaro uses a rolling release, so updates arrive continuously with no big version jumps; Garuda Linux uses a rolling release, so updates arrive continuously with no big version jumps.