My experience with Arch and Linux Mint

I’ve been using Linux for almost a decade now and have spent enough time with Arch and LinuxMint to share my experience. Remember, this article is based on my experience and you may have a different experience as Linux might behave differently on different hardware.

Before we begin, I have a hint to pass on: After using Arch and LinuxMint for years on different hardware, I’ve finally settled down on Linux Mint. But there are users who settled on Arch after using Linux Mint so sit back, relax, and let me share my experience with Arch and Linux Mint.

1. Installation Process

Arch Linux: Installing Arch is a manual process that offers a high level of control and customization. Users often describe it as a journey that requires patience and a willingness to learn. The installation involves setting up partitions, configuring the bootloader, and manually installing each component of the system. This process allows users to tailor the system precisely to their needs, but it can be daunting for beginners.

But Arch has introduced an installer which eliminates all the manual processes that you had to follow previously to get it up and running. But I believe you must go through the manual installation process.

Sure, for the first few times, you might break the system but trust me, I have learned a lot about Linux just by reading the ArchWiki, the best documentation for Linux on the planet. Another reason to love Linux.

Linux Mint: In contrast, Linux Mint offers a streamlined and user-friendly installation process. Mint’s installer guides users through the setup with minimal technical jargon, making it accessible even for those new to Linux. This simplicity makes Mint an appealing choice for beginners who want to get up and running quickly without delving into the complexities of system configuration.

This is the reason why Linux Mint is often considered the best choice for beginners.

2. Learning Curve

Arch Linux: The learning curve for Arch is steep, as it requires a deeper understanding of Linux fundamentals. The Arch Wiki is an invaluable resource, providing comprehensive documentation that helps users learn by doing. Many users find this challenging yet rewarding, as it forces them to engage with the system at a granular level.

In my experience, Arch definitely had a steep learning curve. As I was moving from Ubuntu which comes with all the essentials out of the box, Arch won’t give you anything which you didn’t ask for in this installation. The good part is you learn what package was used for what purpose.

Linux Mint: Mint is designed to be beginner-friendly, with an out-of-the-box experience that requires less technical know-how. Its interface is intuitive for those familiar with Windows, easing the transition for new users.

On the other hand, I find the default layout of Linux Mint a little boring but it works out of the box. But with some customisation here and there, you can make it as per your liking.

3. Customization and Control

Every Linux distribution is equally customizable so if you know how a distro works, the customisation factor might not be relevant for you. It all comes down to how you can customise the Linux right from the installation.

Arch Linux: One of Arch’s strengths is its unparalleled customization options. Users can modify everything from the kernel to the desktop environment, creating a system that is uniquely theirs. This level of control is ideal for those who enjoy tinkering and optimizing their setup.

Whenever I need a bare-bone Linux for my personal use which consumes as few resources as it can, I use Arch Linux.

Linux Mint: While Mint offers fewer customization options compared to Arch, it provides enough flexibility for most users’ needs. Its pre-configured settings are sufficient for those who prefer a ready-to-go experience without extensive tweaking.

I believe Linux Mint is not built to have an extensive number of customisations compared to something like Arch but it tries to give all the necessary tools from the beginning. So it is built for the masses including non-techy uses.

4. Package Management

Arch Linux (Pacman and AUR): Arch uses Pacman as its package manager, which is known for its speed and simplicity. The Arch User Repository (AUR) provides access to a vast array of software, including bleeding-edge packages that might not be available in other distributions.

This is my favourite reason why I love Linux. When you want to install a package which is not available in the default or third-party repository, you build it from the source. AUR solves this problem where you will find most of the packages ready to install using the package manager.

And those packages will get updated when you perform the system update as AUR is tightly integrated into Arch Linux.

Linux Mint (APT): Mint uses APT for package management, emphasizing stability and ease of use. While it may not have the latest software versions like Arch, it ensures that updates are stable and well-tested before release.

As Linux Mint uses the LTS version of Ubuntu, which is focused on stability. So you will never get the most recent software but it also reduces the chances of system break. As it is based on Ubuntu, it is the most supported Linux distribution and you will find .deb packages for almost every Linux tool that is available.

5. System Performance

Arch Linux: Thanks to its minimal installation approach, Arch can be configured to be extremely lightweight and fast. Users often report improved speed and responsiveness due to the absence of unnecessary bloatware.

But here’s the thing. Many users first try to configure Arch in the most minimal way possible and end up installing multiple software. Nothing wrong with it but it breaks the whole idea of a minimal operating system.

Linux Mint: Mint balances performance with user-friendly features, providing a smooth experience on most hardware configurations. It may use more resources than a minimal Arch setup but remains efficient for everyday tasks.

Yes, I believe Linux Mint is an everyday operating system where it packs the power of Linux so it won’t consume many resources and will give you the least hassle possible.

6. Community and Documentation

Arch Linux: The Arch community is large and active, with extensive documentation available through the Arch Wiki. This resource is crucial for troubleshooting and learning more about the system.

As Arch too has a very large audience base, you will find a solution to your problem without any issues.

Linux Mint: Mint has an active community with user-centric forums that focus on support and troubleshooting. The community’s friendliness makes it a welcoming environment for newcomers.

Here’s where the Linux Mint shines. As I mentioned earlier, it is based on Ubuntu, the most popular Linux distribution in the world for desktop usage. So when you combine Ubuntu’s stability + large user base, It makes the best Linux distribution and a community that will hold your hands when you need them the most.

7. Updates and Stability

Arch Linux: There is a misconception that Arch Linux is not stable. Unless and until you are on the testing branch of Arch Linux, I won’t call it unstable. The only caveat here is that you must know what you are doing with your system. As a rolling-release distribution, Arch provides constant updates that keep the system cutting-edge but can sometimes affect stability if not managed carefully.

Linux Mint: Mint follows a more conservative update model, prioritizing stability and long-term support over having the latest software versions. So if you consider long-term stability and hassle-free experience, you should go with Linux Mint.

8. Target Audience

Arch Linux is best suited for power users who enjoy customizing their systems and learning through experimentation.

Linux Mint on the other hand is ideal for users seeking a hassle-free, polished Linux experience without needing to dive deep into system internals.

Final Thoughts

Using Arch taught me valuable lessons about Linux’s inner workings through hands-on problem-solving and customization projects like setting up encrypted boot processes or optimizing desktop environments. However, when I needed a stable system for daily tasks without constant maintenance, I found myself appreciating Linux Mint’s reliability and ease of use.

Both Arch and Linux Mint have their strengths depending on user needs. For those who love to tinker and learn by doing, Arch offers unmatched control and customization opportunities. On the other hand, if you prefer a stable system that works out of the box with minimal fuss, Linux Mint is an excellent choice.

Personally, I found value in both experiences—Arch for its educational journey and Mint for its practicality in daily use. In conclusion, your choice between Arch and Linux Mint should reflect your technical comfort level and what you seek from your operating system: control or convenience.