AlmaLinux vs Manjaro Linux

AlmaLinux and Manjaro Linux compared on the facts that matter: release model, desktop, package management, init system, memory floor and installation size.

Side by side

AlmaLinuxManjaro Linux
Familyrpmarch
Release modelVersioned releasesRolling release
DesktopGNOMEXfce
Package managerDNF (RPM)pacman + Pamac (GTK)
Init systemsystemdsystemd
Immutable rootNoNo
Wayland by defaultYesMixed
Minimum RAM1.5 GB—
ISO size1.5 GB5.2 GB
Latest kernel—7.1
Releases archived2038
Latest release—12 August 2026

What differs

Release model

AlmaLinux uses versioned releases, while Manjaro Linux uses rolling releases.

Package manager

AlmaLinux ships DNF (RPM); Manjaro Linux ships pacman + Pamac (GTK).

Shared traits

Both systems share more than they differ: the table above lines up the current facts side by side.

Verdict

Both are solid choices for their goals — the practical differences are in the table and the points above. Full range tables for each are on their distro pages.

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FAQ

Which one is easier for beginners?

Check the installer row and minimum RAM: a graphical installer with a low memory floor is the friendlier first step.

Where do the numbers come from?

From the current release snapshots of each distribution archived by the linux2u.ru team.