I installed Arch on my low-end PC over four months ago after trying out Linux Mint for a couple of months. I'm really fascinated by Linux, especially how powerful the terminal is. I switched to Arch because it's super lightweight and totally customizable. I've been learning how to tackle Linux problems, like making config files and setting up an auto shutdown timer, often with the help of chatbots. But I keep wondering: what really makes Arch different from other distros like Fedora, Mint, or Kali? I can download and do pretty much the same things on various distros, so do people choose a distro just for its pre-configured settings or specific packages, or is there more to it?
4 Answers
Unlike many other distros that come with a set of pre-installed programs, Arch lets you install only what you need from the start. This can save time because you won't have to remove unnecessary programs after installation. Plus, because Arch is a rolling release, you don’t have to wait for major updates; they come as soon as they're ready, which is perfect if your hardware is cutting-edge.
Arch makes it easier to tailor your system to fit your exact needs. Most users end up with either bloated systems or missing components. With Arch, you can configure it just how you want from the get-go, which might take some time initially, but it results in a streamlined system using fewer resources. If you want something more beginner-friendly first, consider trying Endeavor OS as a stepping stone before jumping into Arch.
Most Linux kernels are developed by the same teams, so they’re similar overall, but the real variation comes from how each distro handles applications, updates, and desktop environments. They might all run the same base applications, but the experience in managing those differs significantly between distros.
I’ve found Arch to be a bit trickier with updates, so I personally prefer a stable Debian base. It really depends on what you're looking for—everyone has their own preferences!
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