antiX vs Devuan
antiX: Fast, systemd-free, and happy on very old PCs. Devuan: Debian without systemd, with a choice of init. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- GamingTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Older hardwareantiXantiX needs about 1 GB of RAM versus 2 GB.
- Latest softwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Long-term stabilityDevuanDevuan changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | antiX | Devuan |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #35 | #37 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Debian Stable | Debian |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | IceWM, JWM, Fluxbox, herbstluftwm | Xfce, KDE Plasma, more |
| Package management | APT | APT |
| Init system | sysVinit or runit | sysVinit, OpenRC or runit |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Intermediate |
| Suggested RAM | 1 GB+ | 2 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64, i686 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2007 | 2014 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Older hardware | Servers, Everyday use, Older hardware |
Key differences
- antiX is based on Debian Stable, while Devuan is based on Debian.
- antiX ships IceWM, JWM, Fluxbox, herbstluftwm; Devuan ships Xfce, KDE Plasma, more.
- antiX uses sysVinit or runit as its init system; Devuan uses sysVinit, OpenRC or runit.
- We suggest about 1 GB of RAM for antiX and 2 GB for Devuan.
Choose antiX if…
- runs in very little memory
- systemd-free with a choice of init
- 32-bit images still available
Window managers feel spartan
Full antiX profileChoose Devuan if…
- choice of init system
- debian-compatible packages
- suitable for servers and desktops
Some software expects systemd
Full Devuan profileantiX vs Devuan: FAQ
Is antiX better than Devuan?
Neither is better for everyone. antiX is the stronger pick for older hardware; Devuan for long-term stability.
Which uses less RAM, antiX or Devuan?
antiX is lighter: we suggest about 1 GB versus 2 GB. The desktop you choose affects memory use more than the distribution itself.
Is antiX based on Devuan?
No. antiX is based on Debian Stable; Devuan is based on Debian.
Can I switch from antiX to Devuan without losing files?
Back up your home folder first. If /home is on a separate partition you can reinstall without formatting it, but a clean install with restored backups is safest.