Reasons Not to Choose Manjaro Linux: Exploring the Downsides

Manjaro Linux is a popular Linux distribution based on Arch Linux, known for its user-friendly interface and pre-configured setup. While it has gained a loyal following for simplifying Arch’s complexity, Manjaro is not without its flaws. For users seeking stability, transparency, and community alignment, Manjaro might not always be the ideal choice. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why you might want to think twice before choosing Manjaro Linux as your operating system.

Delayed Package Updates #

Manjaro’s rolling release model is one of its selling points, but it comes with a significant caveat: delayed package updates. Unlike Arch Linux, which provides bleeding-edge software updates almost instantly, Manjaro holds back updates to test them for stability. While this approach aims to create a more reliable experience, it can frustrate users who want the latest software features or security patches as soon as they are available.

Questionable Package Management Practices #

Manjaro’s approach to managing its repositories has raised concerns in the Linux community. Unlike Arch, which relies on a vast network of mirrors and community contributions, Manjaro’s team curates its own repositories. This centralization can lead to bottlenecks and potential issues if the maintainers fail to keep up with updates. There have been instances where Manjaro’s repositories fell out of sync, leading to broken packages or outdated software.

Dependency on a Small Development Team #

Manjaro is maintained by a relatively small team compared to larger distributions like Ubuntu or Fedora. While this team has done an admirable job, the limited resources can sometimes lead to slow issue resolution, missed updates, or less robust quality assurance. A smaller team also increases the risk of critical gaps if key contributors become unavailable.

Stability Concerns #

Despite its efforts to test packages before release, Manjaro is not immune to stability issues. Users have reported system breakages following updates, particularly when managing software dependencies or proprietary drivers. While these problems are not unique to Manjaro, they undermine its promise of being a stable rolling-release distribution.

Lack of Community Alignment with Arch Linux #

Manjaro markets itself as being “based on Arch,” but its relationship with Arch Linux is somewhat contentious. Manjaro diverges significantly from Arch in terms of philosophy and package management. Arch users often criticize Manjaro for misrepresenting itself as a gateway to Arch while introducing complexities that deviate from the simplicity and transparency of Arch’s design.

Bloated Default Installation #

Manjaro’s out-of-the-box experience is designed to be beginner-friendly, but it comes at the cost of bloat. The default installation includes pre-installed software and desktop customizations that some users find unnecessary. For those who prefer a minimalist approach, this added software can feel intrusive and counterproductive.

Proprietary Software and Drivers #

While Manjaro’s inclusion of proprietary drivers and codecs is convenient for many users, it may not align with the ideals of free and open-source software (FOSS). For those who prioritize FOSS principles, this inclusion can be a dealbreaker.

Security Concerns #

Manjaro has faced criticism for its handling of security updates. For example, critical updates may be delayed during the repository testing phase, leaving systems vulnerable. Additionally, there have been instances where package signing issues raised concerns about the distribution’s overall security practices.

Documentation and Support Limitations #

While Manjaro has its own forums and user guides, its documentation is not as extensive as Arch Linux’s renowned Arch Wiki. Many Manjaro users rely on the Arch Wiki for troubleshooting, but differences between the two distributions can make this documentation less effective. This reliance on Arch resources can be frustrating for users who expect seamless compatibility.

Overlapping Goals with Other Distributions #

Manjaro exists in a space crowded with other beginner-friendly distributions like Ubuntu, Linux Mint, and Fedora. Each of these distributions offers its own set of advantages, such as long-term support (Ubuntu), out-of-the-box usability (Linux Mint), or cutting-edge features (Fedora). For many users, these alternatives provide a more compelling value proposition than Manjaro.

Potential Overhead for Advanced Users #

For users who are familiar with Arch Linux or other barebones distributions, Manjaro’s pre-configured setup can feel restrictive or unnecessary. Advanced users may find themselves undoing Manjaro’s customizations to achieve the minimal, tailored environment they desire. In such cases, starting directly with Arch Linux might be a better option.

Conclusion #

Manjaro Linux has undoubtedly made Arch Linux accessible to a broader audience, but it’s not without its shortcomings. Delayed updates, stability concerns, and philosophical divergences from Arch make it a less-than-ideal choice for some users. Additionally, its small development team and reliance on curated repositories introduce potential risks that other distributions mitigate more effectively.

Before choosing Manjaro, it’s essential to evaluate your priorities. If you’re looking for cutting-edge software, greater transparency, or alignment with FOSS principles, other distributions like Arch Linux, Fedora, or Debian may be better suited to your needs. However, for users seeking a beginner-friendly rolling release with minimal configuration, Manjaro can still be a viable option—provided you’re aware of its limitations.