In the Linux world, Arch Linux and Ubuntu are two significant participants. Both receive much attention, have devoted fanbases, and get utilized as distribution platforms for other systems. Because Ubuntu and Arch Linux are so unlike, it will raise questions among new users. So, if you’re new to these operating systems, Arch Linux vs Ubuntu is an excellent comparison to make because each of these distributions has generated a whole family of derivative distributions that are significant players in their own right. But which is the superior option?
This article will describe the Linux distributions Ubuntu and Arch Linux and provide information to assist you in deciding.
Basics Of Ubuntu
In 2004, the Ubuntu Foundation got established to create a more user-friendly Linux distribution. Ubuntu is a term that means “compassion to others.” It’s a Linux-based operating system designed to bring newcomers to the Linux train. While it differs significantly from Windows and macOS in appearance, it has a relatively simple learning curve.
Ubuntu is available in various varieties, including desktop environments like LXQt, MATE, and Xfce. It’s also one of the most popular Linux distributions for newcomers.
Fact: Canonical Ltd. commercially sponsors Ubuntu, a prominent Debian-based distribution.
Basics Of Arch Linux
Arch Linux is a free and open-source Linux distribution that allows you to customize and control your system to your heart’s content. Arch adheres to the KISS philosophy (Keep It Simple, Stupid) whenever feasible. Linux distributions are popular for their simplicity and ease of use; however, Arch Linux defies this stereotype by allowing users to customize everything while maintaining functionality.
Arch Linux is extremely popular among Linux users for a variety of reasons. Arch is a Linux distribution that gives you an actual Linux experience. While going about your daily chores, you learn new things about Linux.
Fact: Canonical Ltd. commercially sponsors Ubuntu, a prominent Debian-based distribution.
Arch Linux Vs Ubuntu Which One To Choose?
There are so many distros to select from that it’s easy to become overwhelmed. It’s also impossible to compare distributions without first trying them out. Both Ubuntu and Arch Linux have core ideas reflected in their user interfaces. Let’s take a look at a few key points.
Arch Linux Vs Ubuntu – Installation
Arch Linux provides a live installation CD that does not include an installer. Ubuntu’s graphical installer and live DVDs make it perfect for newcomers and those who don’t want to fiddle with or configure every part of their system. Yes, you can create any Arch system you want, but it’s far simpler to make a mistake, and it takes time to get something suitable for everyday usage.
Installing the newest versions of Ubuntu takes roughly 20 to 30 minutes, whereas installing Arch Linux OS might take up to an hour. Ubuntu is a clear winner as it is only one of these variants that comes with an actual installer
Arch Linux Vs Ubuntu – Third-party Packages and Software Compatibility
The software repositories for both Arch and Ubuntu are enormous. In the case of Ubuntu, You won’t feel like you’re falling behind unless you’re using Ubuntu LTS. Ubuntu’s software is frequently updated, although it isn’t always the most up-to-date.
The Arch User Repository (AUR), on the other hand, collects all of Arch’s packages in one location and contains a wide range of applications, including some that are somewhat esoteric.
Note: To install packages from the AUR repository on Arch Linux, you should install a program called AUR Helper. Snap is a utility included with Ubuntu that installs third-party packages from the Snap Store.
Read Our CentOS Vs Ubuntu Comparison Here.
Arch Linux Vs Ubuntu – Security
The LTS kernel and the AppArmor security module get included in Ubuntu 20.04, and it also comes with a Livepatch application that automatically installs kernel fixes. Aside from that, Ubuntu’s developers are continually scanning for vulnerabilities and responding with security fixes.
Although Arch allows you to install an LTS kernel, it lacks a feature similar to Live Patch. To utilize this security module, you must change and regenerate the grub config file. Installing the arch-audit package is the best approach to check for vulnerabilities on Arch Linux.
Arch Linux Vs Ubuntu – Multimedia
Many of the most popular multimedia programs are available straight away in both versions’ default repositories. Both provide quick access to the most up-to-date graphics drivers for NVIDIA and AMD devices. Arch may have an advantage for AMD users because it includes the most recent versions of Mesa and the Linux kernel.
Arch Linux Vs Ubuntu – Release Cycle
Unlike Arch, Ubuntu follows a predictable release schedule, with new releases every six months and long-term maintenance releases every two years. Most people are aware of no big releases, system-wide updates, or version numbers, and all that is required is a frequent package update to ensure that one has the most recent version of Arch Linux and all of its components.
Arch Linux Vs Ubuntu – Who’s it For?
Arch Linux is ideal for advanced users who want more control over their computers. Although it is not as user-friendly as Ubuntu, it is an excellent location to learn about the operating system. Ubuntu has a lot of online documentation and tutorials that are valuable for folks who want something that works.
Bottom Line
To summarize, you can’t go wrong with either Arch Linux Vs Ubuntu, and there isn’t a clear winner because both of these distributions excel at what they do. If you want to install and run as quickly as possible without worrying about things breaking, Ubuntu is the way to go.
On the other hand, Arch allows you to create your system in whatever way you like. It’s fast, light, and quite effective. There is no such thing as a perfect distribution, so build your own. Instead of Arch, you’d want to use Ubuntu on a server because it comes with reliable packages. Both operating systems are excellent for laptops and desktop computers.
