It’s not about Arch itself being a unique choice, it’s about how Arch looks very different from user to user because they not only had the option but the requirement to install nearly everything but the Kernel themselves.
The result is that no two Arch users end up with the same OS, just the same kernel and package manager.
90% of Arch users run the exact same installation you get when you copy-paste the example commands from the installation guide without diving into linked pages, then add a user with default groups and install Gnome.
While I don’t think it’s as high as 90% of users, I admit I didn’t think about people who would subject themselves to Arch just to not take advantage of what Arch has to offer.
(But seriously, why would anyone choose to do this when they can just install Mint)
I would say arch is more of the buzz lightyear shelf meme, you think you’re being unique and cool but really its probably the most popular enthusiast distro
I have met 3 arch users irl.
One was a hacker man kid (unironically one of the best developers I’ve met), messy hair, hoodie but other wise a regular kid.
One was his friend, jock kind of kid. Not necessarily good at programming but he did program and was enthusiastic about it.
Another is a CS major, 6ft tall and fit. Not much else to say about him. He studies CS, you can infer whatever else you want.
And obviously me (btw), not that I’ve met myself.
It’s not about Arch itself being a unique choice, it’s about how Arch looks very different from user to user because they not only had the option but the requirement to install nearly everything but the Kernel themselves.
The result is that no two Arch users end up with the same OS, just the same kernel and package manager.
90% of Arch users run the exact same installation you get when you copy-paste the example commands from the installation guide without diving into linked pages, then add a user with default groups and install Gnome.
While I don’t think it’s as high as 90% of users, I admit I didn’t think about people who would subject themselves to Arch just to not take advantage of what Arch has to offer.
(But seriously, why would anyone choose to do this when they can just install Mint)