EndeavourOS

Overview

EndeavourOS is a free, open-source Linux distribution based on Arch Linux, designed to combine Arch’s flexibility and rolling-release model with a user-friendly installation process and a vibrant community. Launched in 2019 as a successor to Antergos, it offers a graphical installer (Calamares) and multiple desktop environments, making it accessible to both intermediate Linux users and those new to Arch. EndeavourOS emphasizes customization, minimal pre-installed software, and access to the Arch User Repository (AUR), positioning it as a “terminal-centric” yet approachable Arch-based system.

History and Development

EndeavourOS emerged in May 2019 after the discontinuation of Antergos, an Arch-based distribution. Antergos moderators, led by Bryan Poerwoatmodjo, rallied the community to create a new distribution focused on Arch’s core principles with a simpler setup. Key milestones include:

• July 2019: First release, using an offline installer based on Portergos (an Antergos fork) due to issues with Antergos’ Cnchi installer.
• December 2019: Introduced the Calamares net-installer, offering multiple desktop environments (e.g., Xfce, KDE Plasma, GNOME).
• 2019–2021: Launched Discovery magazine (discontinued in April 2021 due to lack of writers) to share Arch tips and package news.
• 2023: Discontinued community editions (e.g., Sway, Qtile, BSPWM) with the “Galileo” release due to maintainer shortages.
• 2025: Latest release, “Endeavour Mercury” (March 19, 2025), supports modern UEFI systems and offers desktop choices like Xfce, Plasma, and Cinnamon.

Funded by donations, EndeavourOS remains community-driven, with active development on GitHub and support via forums, Matrix, and Telegram.

Main Features

1. Calamares Installer: A graphical installer with online (choose from Xfce, KDE Plasma, GNOME, Cinnamon, MATE, Budgie, LXQt, LXDE, i3-wm) and offline (default Xfce or KDE Plasma) modes, simplifying Arch’s typically manual setup.
2. Rolling Release: Inherits Arch’s continuous updates, ensuring the latest software without major version upgrades.
3. Arch User Repository (AUR): Access to community-maintained packages via the yay package manager, expanding software availability.
4. Welcome App: Guides users through initial setup, provides tools (e.g., GParted, MHWD for drivers), and links to documentation and forums.
5. Minimal Bloat: Ships with essential software (e.g., Firefox, Yay), leaving customization to users.
6. Multilingual Support: Supports Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, English, and more, aligning with global accessibility needs.

Advantages and Limitations

Advantages

• User-Friendly Arch: Simplifies Arch’s complex installation with Calamares, ideal for users intimidated by pacstrap.
• Highly Customizable: Offers multiple desktop environments and window managers, with minimal pre-configured theming for user control.
• Bleeding-Edge Updates: Rolling release ensures the latest software and kernels, perfect for developers and enthusiasts.
• Strong Community: Active, helpful support via forums, Matrix, and Telegram, praised for responsiveness.
• Lightweight: Xfce and minimal setups perform well on older hardware (e.g., 10-year-old laptops).

Limitations

• Potential Instability: Rolling releases may introduce bugs or regressions, requiring user vigilance.
• No Default Graphical Package Manager: Relies on pacman and yay via terminal, which may challenge beginners.
• Intermediate Knowledge Required: While easier than Arch, it’s less polished than Manjaro or Ubuntu, suiting users comfortable with command-line tasks.
• Smaller Community: Compared to Ubuntu or Manjaro, support may be less immediate due to a smaller user base.
• Discontinued Features: Community editions (e.g., Sway, BSPWM) and Discovery magazine were dropped, limiting options.

Summary

EndeavourOS is a versatile Arch-based Linux distribution that balances Arch’s power and flexibility with a beginner-friendly installer and community support. Since 2019, it has grown from Antergos’ legacy into a popular choice for intermediate users, offering a rolling-release model, AUR access, and diverse desktop environments. While its terminal-centric nature and potential instability may not suit absolute beginners, its lightweight performance and customization make it ideal for FOSS enthusiasts.