Arch Linux aims to provide a Do-It-Yourself (DIY) experience to tinkerers looking to customize various elements of their Linux system.
Things like building packages to customizing the desktop, everything counts.
The out-of-the-box experience depends on the user who installs and sets up Arch Linux. Hence, it can easily cater to users looking for different packages, desktop environments, and more.
On the other hand, Ubuntu targets users who want a hassle-free pre-configured setup for their Linux system.
These users want essential tools installed, ensuring it all works as it is supposed to. In other words, the user gets an ideal desktop experience without worrying about setting it up.
Ubuntu does not want users to put more effort into improving their experience. Instead, they present it as they think would suit most users.
2.Installation
Undoubtedly, Ubuntu provides a more straightforward installation method, given that you get a GUI to help install it to your desktop.
You will have to rely on what the desktop environment offers out of the box; there are no custom-made improvements for you. If you want something different, you will have to tweak things to make it happen.
4. File System
Most users do not need to worry about the file system used by their Linux distribution.
Hence, Ubuntu sticks with ext4 for its file system, a robust file system with all the essentials needed for a modern computing experience.
However, if you want to choose a different file system for various benefits over the most-commonly used ext4, Arch Linux can come in handy.
5. App ecosystem
Ubuntu offers support for a wide range of applications. Undoubtedly, this is why most of the popular Linux distributions are based on Ubuntu.
Despite that, it is often considered a strong point for Arch Linux because the number of packages offered overall could be more extensive than what Ubuntu features.
You can use some AUR helpers to improve the experience.
Overall, if you want a single portal to easily manage/install software, Ubuntu
6. Minimal vs Bloat Experience
This is purely based on preferences. Just because Arch Linux lets you control everything when you set it up, you can choose to install a minimum number of packages.
In contrast, Ubuntu comes pre-installed with several utilities. For some, Ubuntu can come in handy for the presence of valuable tools.
7. Freedom to Choose vs. Restrictions
8. Community Support
Ubuntu, with its vast user base offers massive community support. There are numerous forums/portals to guide Ubuntu users and help troubleshoot issues.
Arch Linux wiki is probably one of the most extensive documentation if you want to explore yourself.
9. Release Schedule
Ubuntu offers a Long-Term Support version that receives minor updates for five years or more (for enterprises).
The LTS version is better suited for users who do not want experience-breaking changes with every update.
For more information, you can explore our resource on Ubuntu’s release cycles and end of life.
Arch Linux does not bother with any of these; instead, it relies on a rolling-release schedule. You receive updates as they come, whether it’s minor/major.
10.Hardware Compatibility
11. Stability
If you do not need your distro to fail or encounter an error, Ubuntu should be a better choice.
In the case of Arch Linux, the answer is not straightforward, and it can work well or go down with an update.
Arch Linux is not inherently stable, and you need to maintain it yourself to ensure that nothing breaks with customization and updates.
Final Thoughts: What Should You Pick?
Keeping stability, compatibility, app ecosystem, and the learning curve in mind, Ubuntu is perfectly suitable for anyone who wants to get things done on their computer instead of tweaking the experience.
Arch Linux comes on top for users looking to customize their desktop experience to suit their workflow and choose to have some of the latest and greatest stuff.
Arch Linux can be an exciting experience if you are looking for an adventure, but overwhelming for some compared to Ubuntu.
So, considering all that, what do you think you will choose? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions: If You Still Haven’t Picked One
Some of you still might have questions to come up with a conclusion, here’s an FAQ to address that:
Is Arch Better than Ubuntu?
Yes, and no. Arch Linux is technically better, but you also need to think about its stability, app ecosystem, and the learning curve to maintain it. So, you need to re-evaluate the answer to this question based on your preferences.
Which is faster, Ubuntu or Arch?
Arch Linux, with a minimal installation setup. But, the answer will change as per your configuration.
Note that Ubuntu is not noticeably slower, but just because it includes more packages out of the box, some might find it bloated.
Should I switch to Arch Linux from Ubuntu?
If you want to tweak your experience, and want the latest/greatest packages all the time without worrying about stability, Arch Linux is your friend.
If you think that you just need the essentials to carry out the tasks on your PC, Ubuntu should suffice.