Linux manjaro vs ubuntu

Ubuntu is the most popular Debian-based Linux distribution for desktops and servers.

And Manjaro Linux is an Arch-based distro tailored for desktops.

Both are entirely different when it comes to user experience and features.

However, one of the common grounds is the desktop environment when considering Manjaro’s GNOME edition with Ubuntu.

But, what exactly are the differences?

There's no doubt that GNOME is an excellent desktop environment for beginners and experienced users alike, but it may not be everyone's cup of tea.

That said, you can actually get other modified versions of Ubuntu with different DEs called Ubuntu flavors (Kubuntu, Lubuntu, Ubuntu Budgie, and more). Examples include Ubuntu 21.04, Ubuntu 21.10, and Ubuntu 22.10.

Note that the non-LTS releases involve changes that may affect your workflow and user experience.

Really, that's the beauty of Linux: most software is free and designed to be interchangeable, so mixing and matching your favorite aspects of different distros is a real possibility.

To that end, we'll try to just focus on the factual differences between Manjaro and Ubuntu and note when something that may be a nice default in one but possible in the other.

Manjaro Has Three Official Editions

When you go to download Manjaro, you'll find it comes in three variants with three different desktop environments (DEs): Plasma, GNOME, and Xfce.

You'll also prefer Ubuntu if you're new to Linux or just prefer not to mess with the inner workings of a computer through the command line.

But often when people talk about their preferred distro it really comes down to the overall "feel" of the operating system. They are well-tested and stable Ubuntu Linux distributions when compared to unofficial or newer spins of Ubuntu with another desktop environment.

However, Ubuntu flavours do not get five years of software support; instead, you will be limited to three years of support for LTS versions.

With Manjaro, you can choose three official editions: XFCE, KDE, and GNOME.

It could prove to be slower, as per your system configuration and over the year as you use it.

In addition to that, Manjaro Linux has access to AUR, which opens up access to almost every software that you may not find in Ubuntu’s software center.

So, in terms of the software ecosystem and the package manager, Manjaro Linux does provide many advantages over Ubuntu.

Ease of Use and Targeted Users

Ubuntu desktop is primarily tailored for ease of use.

Manjaro uses the Pacman package manager, which is known for its simplicity and speed. That means you may not truly know which is for you until you try it. You will have to choose the packages carefully to install in Manjaro Linux and keep an eye on your configurations to ensure that an update does not break your system experience.

As for Ubuntu, you do not need to stress about the software updates, especially when considering the LTS version.

It is maintained by Canonical Ltd. Ubuntu uses the Advanced Package Tool (APT) for package management.

Hence, Manjaro has a huge advantage over Ubuntu in terms of app availability.

Ubuntu Is a Little More Newbie-Friendly

What's Manjaro's biggest strength is also its weakness.

Choosing a Linux distribution can be hard with so many choices. In contrast, visit Ubuntu's official download page and you'll get you just one desktop option: Ubuntu with GNOME.

If it's critical that your computer stays completely functional at all times, you'll probably want Ubuntu. Are software tools available on both Ubuntu and Manjaro?

Here, we shall look at the differences in both the Linux distributions at certain key points.

Release Cycle

Ubuntu offers two different release cycles, considering the version you pick.

If you prefer bleeding-edge update over stability and a faster overall desktop experience, Manjaro is a great choice. For example, it's faster to install apps using Pamac than APT and Snap. You can configure this in the Software & Updates settings.

Conclusion#

Both Manjaro Linux and Ubuntu have their own strengths and weaknesses.

No matter the desktop environment, you stick to the rolling release model.

You do have some community editions with Budgie, MATE, LXQt, and more as well.

Package Manager or Software Ecosystem

You shouldn’t have trouble finding most of the essential Linux apps on both the distros.

However, Manjaro Linux gets an edge with a snappier experience using Pamac as its package manager.

Compared to the software center on Ubuntu, Manjaro Linux offers a better experience for quickly installing/updating the software.

But, it gives more control to change the layout and few other options.

Table of Contents#

1. Fundamental Concepts
2. Usage Methods
3. Common Practices
4. Best Practices
5. Conclusion
6. References

Fundamental Concepts#

Manjaro Linux#

Manjaro Linux is an independently developed Linux distribution based on the Arch Linux operating system.

On the other hand, Ubuntu is a well-established and beginner-friendly distribution with strong community support and a wide range of software available.

Ultimately, the choice between Manjaro Linux and Ubuntu depends on your technical expertise, specific requirements, and personal preferences.