Manjaro 23.0 with KDE Plasma: The User-Friendly Linux Alternative to Windows OS

Introduction to Manjaro 23.0 with KDE Plasma

The landscape of operating systems has long been dominated by Windows, but increasingly, users are seeking alternatives that offer more control, better privacy, and a refreshing change from the mainstream. Enter Manjaro 23.0 with KDE Plasma—a sophisticated Linux distribution that combines the power and flexibility of open-source software with an intuitive, visually appealing interface. As Windows users face challenges from forced updates, privacy concerns, and resource-heavy requirements, Manjaro presents itself as a compelling alternative that doesn’t require users to sacrifice functionality or ease of use.

Manjaro Linux has established itself as one of the most accessible and user-friendly distributions in the Linux ecosystem. The latest 23.0 release, codenamed “Uranos,” featuring the KDE Plasma desktop environment, takes this accessibility to new heights with improvements in hardware compatibility, system stability, and user experience. Whether you’re a curious Windows user looking to explore alternatives, a privacy advocate seeking greater control over your computing environment, or simply someone interested in the growing world of Linux, Manjaro 23.0 offers a pathway that combines the best of both worlds: the freedom and security of Linux with the familiar comfort and visual polish that Windows users have come to expect.

The Evolution of Manjaro: From Niche Distribution to Windows Alternative

To understand why Manjaro 23.0 with KDE Plasma stands as a viable Windows alternative today, it’s helpful to trace its evolutionary path. Manjaro began as an Arch Linux-based distribution in 2011, founded by Philip Müller, Roland Singer, and Guillaume Benoit. Their vision was to create a more accessible version of Arch Linux, which, while powerful and flexible, had a reputation for being difficult for beginners.

Over the years, Manjaro has grown from a small community project to one of the most popular Linux distributions globally. Its development philosophy has consistently centered around making a powerful, cutting-edge operating system that doesn’t require advanced technical knowledge to install and use—a direct contrast to its Arch Linux parent, which typically demands more technical expertise.

The integration of KDE Plasma as one of Manjaro’s flagship desktop environments was a strategic choice that has paid dividends. KDE Plasma offers a visually rich, customizable interface that Windows users find familiar yet more flexible. With each release, Manjaro has refined this experience, addressing pain points that traditionally kept users tethered to Windows:

Simplified installation process with a graphical installer
Hardware detection and driver installation
User-friendly software management
Regular, stable updates without forced reboots
Comprehensive documentation and community support

The release of Manjaro 23.0 represents the culmination of these efforts—a mature, stable, and polished operating system that can genuinely challenge Windows in both functionality and user experience.

Key Features of Manjaro 23.0 with KDE Plasma

Manjaro 23.0 “Uranos” with KDE Plasma introduces several key features and improvements that enhance its position as a user-friendly Windows alternative. Let’s explore what makes this release stand out:

Modern, Customizable Desktop Environment

The KDE Plasma desktop environment in Manjaro 23.0 offers a visually stunning interface that rivals—and in many ways surpasses—what Windows provides. The default layout features a familiar taskbar at the bottom, a start menu-like application launcher, and a system tray. However, unlike Windows, KDE Plasma offers unprecedented customization options:

Widgets and Plasmoids: Users can add functional elements to their desktop, from weather forecasts to system monitors.
Desktop Effects: Smooth animations and transitions that enhance the visual experience without sacrificing performance.
Themes and Styles: Comprehensive theming options that allow users to change everything from window decorations to icon sets.
Multiple Desktop Layouts: Preset configurations that can mimic Windows, macOS, or unique layouts optimized for productivity.

The default Manjaro theme for KDE Plasma features a modern, clean aesthetic with a dark color scheme that’s easy on the eyes and perfect for extended work sessions.

Rolling Release Model with Stability Safeguards

Manjaro follows a rolling release model, meaning users receive continuous updates rather than waiting for major version releases (as with Windows). This approach offers several advantages:

Always Up-to-Date Software: Users have access to the latest applications and features.
No Need for System Reinstallation: The system evolves continuously without disruptive major upgrades.
Stability Testing: Unlike pure rolling release distributions, Manjaro tests updates before releasing them to users, creating a balance between cutting-edge features and stability.

Manjaro 23.0 refines this process further with improved update notifications and a more robust package management system.

Hardware Compatibility and Performance

One historical barrier to Linux adoption has been hardware compatibility. Manjaro 23.0 addresses this with:

Enhanced Hardware Detection: The Manjaro Hardware Detection tool automatically identifies and configures hardware components.
Expanded Driver Support: Simplified installation of proprietary drivers for NVIDIA graphics cards and other hardware that requires non-open-source drivers.
Optimized Kernel Options: Manjaro offers several kernel options through its kernel manager, allowing users to choose between stability and support for newer hardware.

Performance is another area where Manjaro 23.0 shines. The system is notably lighter on resources than Windows, particularly Windows 11 with its increased system requirements. Even on older hardware that might struggle with recent Windows versions, Manjaro provides a smooth, responsive experience.

Software Availability and Management

Manjaro 23.0 comes with an impressive software ecosystem that covers virtually all needs previously met by Windows applications:

Pamac Package Manager: A graphical tool that makes installing, updating, and removing software as simple as using an app store.
Access to Multiple Repositories: Users can access software from Manjaro repositories, Arch User Repository (AUR), and Flatpak, providing one of the largest software collections available on any platform.
Pre-installed Applications: The KDE edition comes with a thoughtfully curated selection of applications for everyday tasks, including Firefox for web browsing, Thunderbird for email, and LibreOffice for productivity.

For those transitioning from Windows, Manjaro makes it easy to find alternatives to familiar software or, in many cases, run the same applications through compatibility layers like Wine or by using Flatpak versions.

The KDE Plasma Desktop: A Familiar Yet Enhanced Experience

The KDE Plasma desktop environment deserves special attention as it forms the core of the user experience in this Manjaro edition. KDE Plasma 5.27, included in Manjaro 23.0, represents the pinnacle of this desktop environment’s development, offering features that make Windows users feel at home while introducing powerful capabilities that aren’t available in Microsoft’s operating system.

User Interface Elements That Windows Users Will Recognize

KDE Plasma shares many interface elements with Windows, making the transition smoother:

Application Launcher: The KDE menu works similarly to the Windows Start menu, providing easy access to applications, settings, and system functions.
System Tray: Notification area for running applications and system status indicators.
Window Management: Familiar minimize, maximize, and close buttons, plus snap assist features for organizing windows.
File Manager: Dolphin file manager offers a layout similar to File Explorer but with additional features.

These similarities provide immediate familiarity, reducing the learning curve for Windows migrants.

Advanced Features That Surpass Windows

Beyond the familiar basics, KDE Plasma offers capabilities that Windows users might find surprisingly powerful:

Activities: A concept that goes beyond virtual desktops, allowing users to create different workspaces with unique sets of applications and layouts for different tasks or projects.
KDE Connect: Integration with mobile devices that far exceeds what Windows offers, allowing file transfers, notification syncing, remote control, and more.
Detailed System Settings: Granular control over system behavior, appearance, and functionality that Windows simply doesn’t match.
Desktop Effects: Configurable visual effects that enhance usability without sacrificing performance.

These advanced features demonstrate how Manjaro with KDE Plasma doesn’t just match Windows functionality but extends beyond it in meaningful ways.

Customization: Making Your Desktop Truly Yours

Perhaps the most significant advantage of KDE Plasma over Windows is its approach to customization. While Windows allows limited personalization, KDE Plasma treats customization as a core feature:

Global Themes: Change the entire look and feel with a single click.
Widget Styles: Modify how interface elements like buttons and menus appear.
Color Schemes: Adjust the color palette system-wide or per application.
Window Decorations: Change how window frames look and behave.
Desktop Layouts: Rearrange or completely change how desktop elements are organized.
Shortcuts and Gestures: Create custom keyboard shortcuts and mouse gestures for frequently used actions.

This level of customization means users can create a computing environment perfectly tailored to their preferences and workflow—something Windows users often find liberating after years of working within Microsoft’s more limited customization options.

Transitioning from Windows: What to Expect

For Windows users considering Manjaro 23.0 with KDE Plasma, understanding what to expect during the transition can help set realistic expectations and ensure a smooth migration experience.

Installation Process: Simpler Than You Might Think

Many potential Linux users worry about complex installation procedures, but Manjaro’s installer is designed with newcomers in mind:

Graphical Installer: The Calamares installer provides a user-friendly, step-by-step process with clear explanations.
Dual-Boot Option: Users can install Manjaro alongside Windows, choosing which operating system to use at startup.
Automatic Partitioning: The installer can handle disk partitioning automatically, though manual options are available for advanced users.
Hardware Detection: The installer automatically detects and configures hardware components.

The entire installation process typically takes 15-30 minutes, comparable to a Windows installation but with fewer reboots and no lengthy update processes afterward.

Finding Alternative Applications

One of the biggest concerns for Windows users is software compatibility. Manjaro 23.0 addresses this in several ways:

Native Alternatives: Most common Windows applications have Linux equivalents that offer similar functionality (e.g., LibreOffice instead of Microsoft Office, GIMP instead of Photoshop).
Cross-Platform Software: Many popular applications now offer Linux versions (e.g., Firefox, Chrome, VS Code, Spotify).
Wine Compatibility Layer: For Windows-only applications, Wine allows many Windows programs to run directly on Linux.
Flatpak and Snap Support: These packaging technologies make it easier for developers to distribute software across Linux distributions.

Manjaro’s software manager makes finding these alternatives straightforward, often suggesting equivalent applications when searching for Windows software.

Learning Curve and Productivity Impact

New Manjaro users coming from Windows should expect some adjustment period, but the KDE Plasma edition minimizes this through its familiar interface:

Initial Adjustment: Most users report needing about 1-2 weeks to feel fully comfortable with the new environment.
Productivity Dip and Recovery: A slight productivity decrease during the transition is normal, but many users report increased productivity after adaptation due to Manjaro’s efficiency and customization options.
Different, Not Difficult: Most challenges come from differences in how tasks are accomplished rather than increased complexity.

The Manjaro community, with its forums and documentation, provides excellent support for new users during this transition period.

Performance Comparison: Manjaro 23.0 vs. Windows

One of the most compelling reasons to consider Manjaro as a Windows alternative is its performance profile. Let’s examine how Manjaro 23.0 with KDE Plasma compares to recent Windows versions across several key metrics:

System Requirements and Hardware Utilization

Manjaro 23.0 with KDE Plasma has significantly lower system requirements than Windows 10 or 11:

Minimum RAM: Manjaro can run comfortably with 2GB RAM (though 4GB is recommended), while Windows 11 requires 4GB minimum and runs better with 8GB+.
Processor Requirements: Manjaro supports older processors that Windows 11 explicitly excludes due to TPM and other requirements.
Storage Space: A full Manjaro installation with applications typically uses 10-15GB, compared to Windows 11’s 64GB minimum requirement.
Background Processes: Manjaro runs fewer background processes, leaving more resources available for user applications.

This efficiency means Manjaro can breathe new life into hardware that struggles with modern Windows versions.

Boot Times and Responsiveness

Speed is another area where Manjaro demonstrates clear advantages:

Boot Time: On comparable hardware, Manjaro typically boots 30-50% faster than Windows.
Wake from Sleep: Instant resume from sleep without the delay often experienced in Windows.
Application Launch: Native Linux applications generally launch faster due to the more efficient resource management.
System Responsiveness Under Load: Manjaro maintains responsiveness even when system resources are heavily utilized.

These performance characteristics translate to a more fluid, less frustrating user experience, particularly on older or mid-range hardware.

Long-term System Health

Windows systems are known to degrade in performance over time, requiring occasional reinstallation or reset. Manjaro’s architecture largely avoids this issue:

No Registry Fragmentation: Manjaro doesn’t use a registry system like Windows, eliminating a common source of performance degradation.
Package Management: The clean installation and removal of software prevents the accumulation of leftover files and settings.
File System Efficiency: Linux file systems like ext4 maintain performance better over time than NTFS.
Update Process: Updates replace only what’s needed without accumulating redundant files.

Many Manjaro users report running the same installation for years without the performance decline that Windows users often experience.

Privacy and Security: A Fundamental Advantage

In an era of increasing digital surveillance and security threats, Manjaro 23.0 offers significant privacy and security advantages over Windows.

Privacy Considerations

Windows has faced criticism for its data collection practices, which have expanded with each version. Manjaro takes a fundamentally different approach:

No Telemetry: Manjaro doesn’t collect user data or usage information by default.
No Advertising ID: Unlike Windows, Manjaro doesn’t assign users an advertising identifier used for tracking across applications.
Transparent Operations: As open-source software, all of Manjaro’s code can be inspected, ensuring there are no hidden data collection mechanisms.
User Control: When data is needed (such as for crash reports), the user is explicitly asked for permission.

This privacy-centric approach appeals to users who value digital sovereignty and control over their personal information.

Security Architecture

Manjaro’s security model differs significantly from Windows, offering several advantages:

User Permission Model: The Linux permission system prevents applications from making system-wide changes without explicit authorization.
Repository-Based Software: Applications installed from official repositories are vetted and maintained, reducing the risk of malware.
Reduced Attack Surface: The architecture of Linux systems presents fewer attack vectors for malware.
Transparent Security Updates: Security patches are issued quickly and can be applied without rebooting in many cases.

While no operating system is completely immune to security threats, Manjaro’s security model provides strong protection against common attack vectors that plague Windows systems.

Community-Driven Security Response

The open-source nature of Manjaro creates a different security ecosystem than Windows:

Many Eyes Principle: The open-source code is continuously reviewed by developers worldwide, often leading to faster identification of security issues.
Rapid Patching: When vulnerabilities are discovered, they’re typically patched quickly due to the collaborative nature of open-source development.
No Security Through Obscurity: Rather than hiding security mechanisms, Manjaro relies on robust, peer-reviewed security practices.

This community-driven approach often results in more thorough security practices and faster responses to emerging threats.

Application Ecosystem: Meeting Daily Needs

A critical factor for any Windows alternative is its ability to provide the applications users need for their daily tasks. Manjaro 23.0 offers a robust application ecosystem that covers most use cases.

Pre-installed Applications

Manjaro 23.0 with KDE Plasma comes with a thoughtfully selected set of applications:

Internet: Firefox web browser, Thunderbird email client
Office: LibreOffice suite (Writer, Calc, Impress, etc.)
Multimedia: VLC media player, Elisa music player
Graphics: Gwenview image viewer, Spectacle screenshot tool
Utilities: Ark archive manager, KCalc calculator, Kate text editor
System Tools: System Monitor, Discover software center, Manjaro Settings Manager

These applications cover most everyday needs right out of the box, eliminating the need to immediately search for and install basic software.

Software Installation and Management

Adding new software in Manjaro is straightforward and often easier than in Windows:

Pamac Package Manager: A graphical tool that provides a store-like experience for browsing, installing, and updating applications.
Access to AUR: The Arch User Repository greatly expands available software beyond official repositories.
Flatpak Integration: Support for Flatpak packages provides access to many popular applications in a distribution-independent format.
Command-Line Options: Advanced users can utilize powerful command-line tools for software management.

This multi-layered approach to software distribution means that most applications Windows users rely on either have Linux versions or viable alternatives available in Manjaro.

Gaming on Manjaro

Gaming has traditionally been a Windows stronghold, but Manjaro 23.0 has made significant strides in this area:

Steam and Proton: Valve’s Proton compatibility layer allows many Windows games to run on Linux with minimal setup.
Native Linux Games: A growing library of games with native Linux versions.
Lutris: A game management platform that simplifies installing and running games from various sources.
Performance Optimizations: Manjaro includes kernel optimizations and up-to-date graphics drivers that benefit gaming performance.

While not every Windows game works perfectly, the situation has improved dramatically in recent years, making Manjaro a viable platform for many gamers.

Professional and Creative Work: Can Manjaro Replace Windows in the Workplace?

Many users wonder if Manjaro can support professional workflows traditionally tied to Windows. The answer depends on specific needs but is increasingly positive for many professions.

Office Productivity

For standard office tasks, Manjaro provides excellent alternatives:

LibreOffice: A comprehensive office suite compatible with Microsoft Office formats.
OnlyOffice: An office suite with exceptional Microsoft Office format compatibility.
WPS Office: A suite with an interface very similar to Microsoft Office.
Web-Based Alternatives: Google Workspace and Microsoft 365 web versions work well in Linux browsers.

Most office workers find these alternatives sufficient for daily tasks, though some specialized features of Microsoft Office might not be fully replicated.

Creative Production

Creative professionals have increasingly viable options on Manjaro:

Graphics and Design: GIMP, Inkscape, and Krita provide powerful alternatives to Photoshop and Illustrator.
Video Editing: Kdenlive, DaVinci Resolve (available for Linux), and Blender’s video editor offer professional-grade video editing.
Audio Production: Ardour, LMMS, and Audacity support sophisticated audio workflows.
3D Modeling and Animation: Blender provides industry-standard 3D capabilities.

While there’s still a learning curve when transitioning from Adobe or other proprietary creative suites, many professionals have successfully made the switch to open-source alternatives on Linux.

Development and Technical Work

For developers and technical professionals, Manjaro often provides a superior environment to Windows:

Development Tools: Native support for programming languages and development environments without the workarounds often needed in Windows.
Terminal and Scripting: The Linux command line offers powerful capabilities that Windows Command Prompt or even PowerShell can’t match.
Web Development: The LAMP/LEMP stack (Linux, Apache/Nginx, MySQL/MariaDB, PHP/Python/Perl) runs natively without virtualization.
DevOps and System Administration: Native Docker support and better compatibility with server environments.

Many developers find that switching to Manjaro actually increases their productivity after the initial adjustment period.

Community and Support: The Invisible Advantage

One of Manjaro’s greatest strengths is its community and support ecosystem, which differs significantly from the corporate support model of Windows.

The Manjaro Community

Manjaro has cultivated an active, helpful community that serves as an invaluable resource:

Manjaro Forums: A central hub where users can ask questions, share solutions, and discuss features.
User-Created Documentation: Community-maintained wikis and guides that cover virtually every aspect of the system.
Social Media Presence: Active communities on Reddit, Discord, and other platforms provide real-time help and discussion.
Local User Groups: In many areas, Linux user groups provide in-person support and networking opportunities.

This community-based support model often provides faster, more thorough assistance than commercial support channels.

Official Documentation and Resources

Beyond community support, Manjaro maintains excellent official resources:

Manjaro Wiki: Comprehensive documentation covering installation, configuration, and troubleshooting.
Manjaro Handbook: A user guide specifically designed for newcomers transitioning from other operating systems.
Release Notes and Announcements: Detailed information about updates and changes.
Issue Tracking: Transparent bug reporting and feature request systems.

These resources are designed with user accessibility in mind, making them valuable for both beginners and experienced users.

Learning Resources for New Users

For those new to Linux, Manjaro provides several pathways to build knowledge:

Built-in Help: Many Manjaro applications include comprehensive help documentation.
Video Tutorials: Both official and community-created tutorials cover common tasks and troubleshooting.
Manjaro’s Learning Curve Philosophy: The system is designed to be immediately usable while gradually introducing more advanced concepts as users become comfortable.

This layered approach to learning makes Manjaro one of the most accessible entry points to the Linux ecosystem for Windows users.

Real-world Use Cases: Who’s Switching and Why

Understanding who is successfully switching from Windows to Manjaro and their motivations provides valuable context for those considering a similar move.

Home Users and Enthusiasts

Many home users have embraced Manjaro for various reasons:

Privacy Concerns: Individuals uncomfortable with Windows’ data collection practices.
Hardware Rejuvenation: Users with older hardware that struggles with newer Windows versions.
Customization Enthusiasts: People who enjoy tailoring their computing environment to their exact preferences.
Learning and Exploration: Those interested in understanding computing at a deeper level than Windows typically allows.

These users often report higher satisfaction with their computing experience after adjusting to Manjaro’s different approach.

Educational Settings

Educational institutions have found Manjaro valuable for several reasons:

Cost Efficiency: Eliminating licensing costs allows budget allocation to other educational resources.
Educational Value: Linux provides students with insights into operating system concepts and open-source software development.
Reduced Maintenance: Better security and stability mean less IT staff time spent on system maintenance.
Software Availability: Extensive educational software available through repositories.

From elementary schools to universities, educational institutions have successfully deployed Manjaro and other Linux distributions as Windows alternatives.

Small Business and Professional Use

Small businesses and professionals have found Manjaro meets their needs while offering advantages over Windows:

Cost Reduction: Elimination of licensing fees for operating systems and many applications.
Reliability: Less downtime due to crashes, malware, or update issues.
Security: Reduced vulnerability to ransomware and other threats common to Windows systems.
Customization: Ability to tailor the working environment to specific business workflows.

While large enterprises often have complex legacy software requirements that may limit Linux adoption, small businesses frequently find the transition more feasible and beneficial.

Limitations and Considerations: When Manjaro Might Not Be the Right Choice

Despite its many strengths, Manjaro isn’t the perfect solution for every user or use case. Understanding its limitations helps set realistic expectations.

Software Compatibility Challenges

Some specific software categories remain challenging in Manjaro and other Linux distributions:

Specialized Professional Software: Some industry-specific applications (like certain CAD programs, accounting software, or specialized scientific tools) may not have Linux versions or viable alternatives.
Proprietary Formats and DRM: Some digital rights management systems and proprietary formats may have limited support.
Some Gaming Titles: Despite significant progress in Linux gaming, some games with aggressive anti-cheat systems or certain technologies may not work properly.

Users heavily dependent on specific Windows-only software should research Linux compatibility before switching.

Hardware Considerations

While Manjaro has excellent hardware support, some considerations remain:

Very New Hardware: The newest hardware components might experience a delay before optimal Linux support is available.
Certain Peripheral Devices: Some specialized peripherals might have limited functionality if manufacturers don’t provide Linux drivers.
Hybrid Graphics Systems: While supported, some laptop systems with dual graphics (NVIDIA Optimus, for example) might require additional configuration for optimal performance.

Most standard hardware works well, but users with exotic or cutting-edge components should research compatibility beforehand.

Learning Curve and Workflow Adjustments

The transition to Manjaro requires some adjustment, which may be challenging for certain users:

Different Problem-Solving Approaches: Troubleshooting in Linux often involves different methods than in Windows.
Command Line Familiarity: While not strictly necessary for basic use, some tasks are more efficiently handled via command line.
Different Application Workflows: Alternative applications may accomplish the same tasks but through different interfaces and procedures.

Users unwilling or unable to invest time in learning new approaches might find the transition frustrating despite Manjaro’s user-friendly design.

Getting Started with Manjaro 23.0: Practical Next Steps

For readers interested in exploring Manjaro 23.0 with KDE Plasma as a Windows alternative, here are practical next steps to begin the journey.

Try Before You Commit

Manjaro offers several ways to test the system without committing to a full installation:

Live USB Experience: Create a bootable USB drive to test Manjaro directly on your hardware without installation.
Virtual Machine Testing: Use VirtualBox or similar software to run Manjaro within Windows for exploration.
Dual-Boot Setup: Install Manjaro alongside Windows, choosing which to use at startup.

These approaches allow users to gradually become familiar with Manjaro while maintaining access to their Windows environment.

Installation and Initial Setup

When ready for installation, the process is straightforward:

Download: Obtain the official Manjaro KDE image from the Manjaro website.
Create Installation Media: Use tools like Rufus (on Windows) or the built-in USB writer on Manjaro to create a bootable drive.
Installation Process: Boot from the USB drive and follow the graphical installer’s steps.
Post-Installation Setup: After installation, run the initial system update and install any additional drivers needed.

The Manjaro installer guides users through these steps with clear explanations and options.

Resources for Continuing Education

To continue learning and get the most from Manjaro:

Manjaro Wiki: The official documentation covering all aspects of the system.
Manjaro Forums: A place to ask questions and learn from other users’ experiences.
Video Tutorials: Many content creators offer detailed Manjaro tutorials on platforms like YouTube.
Books and Courses: Resources on Linux fundamentals apply to Manjaro and can deepen understanding.

Investing time in these resources accelerates the learning curve and helps users discover Manjaro’s full potential.

Conclusion: Is Manjaro 23.0 with KDE Plasma Right for You?

Manjaro 23.0 with KDE Plasma represents one of the most compelling alternatives to Windows available today. Its combination of user-friendly design, powerful capabilities, and open-source philosophy offers a refreshing change from the limitations and frustrations many Windows users experience.

For users concerned about privacy, tired of forced updates and reboots, frustrated by system bloat, or simply curious about alternatives, Manjaro provides a mature, stable platform that can handle most computing needs. The KDE Plasma desktop environment offers a familiar yet enhanced experience that makes the transition from Windows as smooth as possible while introducing powerful new capabilities.

That said, Manjaro isn’t for everyone. Those heavily dependent on specific Windows-only software without viable alternatives, or unwilling to invest time in learning new approaches, might find the transition challenging despite Manjaro’s user-friendly design.

The beauty of Manjaro is that you can try it without commitment through live USB drives or virtual machines. This low-risk exploration allows potential users to evaluate whether Manjaro meets their needs before making any permanent changes to their computing environment.

In an era where digital autonomy, privacy, and performance matter more than ever, Manjaro 23.0 with KDE Plasma stands as a testament to what’s possible when software is designed to serve users rather than corporate interests. Whether as a complete Windows replacement or as a secondary system for specific tasks, Manjaro offers a computing experience worth exploring.