antiX vs Puppy Linux
antiX: Fast, systemd-free, and happy on very old PCs. Puppy Linux: Tiny, runs from RAM, and boots almost anywhere. 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 hardwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Latest softwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Long-term stabilityTieBoth are a similar fit here.
Specs compared
| Feature | antiX | Puppy Linux |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #35 | #36 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Debian Stable | Varies (Ubuntu, Debian or Slackware packages) |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | IceWM, JWM, Fluxbox, herbstluftwm | JWM and other window managers |
| Package management | APT | PPM · varies by release |
| Init system | sysVinit or runit | BusyBox init |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Intermediate |
| Suggested RAM | 1 GB+ | 1 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64, i686 | x86_64, i686 |
| First released | 2007 | 2003 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Older hardware | Older hardware |
Key differences
- antiX is based on Debian Stable, while Puppy Linux is based on Varies (Ubuntu, Debian or Slackware packages).
- antiX ships IceWM, JWM, Fluxbox, herbstluftwm; Puppy Linux ships JWM and other window managers.
- Software comes from APT on antiX and PPM · varies by release on Puppy Linux.
- antiX uses sysVinit or runit as its init system; Puppy Linux uses BusyBox init.
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 Puppy Linux if…
- very small download and memory use
- runs entirely from RAM
- useful as a rescue system
Different variants behave differently
Full Puppy Linux profileantiX vs Puppy Linux: FAQ
Is antiX better than Puppy Linux?
Neither is better for everyone. antiX is the stronger pick for a different set of needs; Puppy Linux for a different set of needs.
Which uses less RAM, antiX or Puppy Linux?
Both need about 1 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop. The desktop environment affects memory use more than the distribution.
Is antiX based on Puppy Linux?
No. antiX is based on Debian Stable; Puppy Linux is based on Varies (Ubuntu, Debian or Slackware packages).
Can I switch from antiX to Puppy Linux 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.