A recent ZDNet article compares two user-friendly rolling release Linux distributions: Rhino Linux, based on Ubuntu, and EndeavorOS, based on Arch Linux. Both offer continuous updates without major upgrades, but they cater to slightly different users. Rhino Linux edges out for those newer to Linux due to its Ubuntu foundation.
Rolling release distributions deliver software updates continuously in small increments, keeping systems current without large version jumps. This approach ensures users get the latest features, bug fixes, and security patches promptly.
Rhino Linux builds on Ubuntu's development branch to provide rolling updates, avoiding long-term support cycles. It features a customized Xfce desktop, dubbed the Unicorn Desktop, with a modern GNOME-like aesthetic including a top panel, floating dock, and Ulauncher app launcher. Package management is unified through Rhino PKG (rpk), a command-line wrapper supporting APT, Pacstall, Flatpak, and Snap from a single interface. While no built-in graphical package installer exists, users can add Synaptic for APT via command line. Additional perks include automatic workspace creation, built-in window tiling, hot corners, and drag-and-drop functionality. The distribution suits users comfortable with basic command-line tasks, offering Ubuntu's inherent user-friendliness.
In contrast, EndeavorOS simplifies Arch Linux's complexity with a graphical Calamares installer supporting desktops like KDE Plasma, Xfce, and GNOME. It ships with essential tools only, using pacman for packages and yay for the Arch User Repository. A welcome app aids updates, mirror management, and software installation, while automatic GPU detection installs necessary drivers, easing NVIDIA setups. KDE Plasma provides a tweakable, performant desktop. The distribution appeals to those seeking Arch's power without its installation hurdles, backed by a supportive community.
The comparison highlights Rhino Linux's advantage for Linux newcomers due to its Ubuntu base and multi-package support, versus EndeavorOS's focus on Arch efficiency and performance. Neither is ideal for absolute beginners without command-line basics, but both excel for intermediate users preferring rolling releases.
