How to Install and Run Latest Manjaro on VirtualBox

Want to try Manjaro Linux without messing up your current setup? VirtualBox makes it easy. Here’s a straightforward guide to getting the latest Manjaro up and running on VirtualBox.

What You’ll Need

• VirtualBox installed on your computer (Windows, macOS, or Linux)
• The latest Manjaro ISO (download from manjaro.org)
• At least 2GB RAM (more is better)
• Around 20GB free disk space

Step 1: Download and Install VirtualBox

• Head over to virtualbox.org and download the latest version.
• Install it like any other application for your OS.
• (Optional but recommended) Download and install the VirtualBox Extension Pack for better USB and peripheral support.

Step 2: Download the Latest Manjaro ISO

• Go to manjaro.org/download.
• Choose your favorite edition (XFCE, KDE Plasma, GNOME, etc.).
• Download the ISO file.

Step 3: Create a New Virtual Machine

1. Open VirtualBox and click “New.”
2. Name your VM (e.g., “Manjaro”).
3. Set Type to “Linux” and Version to “Arch Linux (64-bit)” (Manjaro is based on Arch).
4. Click Next.

Step 4: Assign Memory and Hard Disk

• RAM: 2GB minimum, 4GB+ recommended.
• Hard Disk: Choose “Create a virtual hard disk now.” Set at least 20GB. Use “VDI” and “Dynamically allocated.”
• Click Create.

Tip: Need more disk space later? Check out this guide on How to Enlarge a Virtual Machine’s Disk in VirtualBox or VMware.

Step 5: Set Up the ISO

1. Select your new VM and click Settings.
2. Go to Storage, select “Empty” under Controller: IDE.
3. On the right, click the disk icon and select “Choose a disk file.”
4. Pick the Manjaro ISO you downloaded.

Step 6: Tweak a Few Settings (Optional but Helpful)

• System > Processor: Bump up to 2 CPUs if you can.
• Display > Video Memory: Max it out for smoother experience (128MB+).
• Network: Default is NAT, which works fine for most.

Step 7: Boot and Install Manjaro

1. Click Start.
2. Manjaro will boot from the ISO. Choose “Boot with open source drivers.”
3. Once you reach the live desktop, double-click “Install Manjaro.”
4. Follow the installer steps. The defaults are usually fine for virtual machines.
5. Let the install finish, then reboot. When prompted, remove the ISO (go to Settings > Storage and set the ISO back to “Empty”).

Step 8: Install VirtualBox Guest Additions (for a Better Experience)

1. Boot into your new Manjaro system.
2. Open Terminal and run:
   sudo pacman -Syu virtualbox-guest-utils
3. Reboot the VM.

This gives you better screen resizing, clipboard sharing, and seamless mouse integration.

You’re Done!

Now you have the latest Manjaro running safely in VirtualBox. Explore, customize, and see if Manjaro is right for you—no risk, all reward.

Have questions or tips? Drop them in the comments below!

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!