Artix Linux vs Void Linux
Artix Linux: Arch Linux without systemd. Void Linux: An independent rolling system with runit. 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 | Artix Linux | Void Linux |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #29 | #30 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Arch Linux | Independent |
| Release model | Rolling | Rolling |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, Xfce, more | Xfce (live image) or your choice |
| Package management | Pacman · AUR (community) | XBPS |
| Init system | OpenRC, runit, s6 or dinit | runit |
| Experience level | Advanced | Advanced |
| Suggested RAM | 2 GB+ | 2 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64, i686, aarch64 |
| First released | 2017 | 2008 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Development, Older hardware | Development, Older hardware |
Key differences
- Artix Linux is based on Arch Linux, while Void Linux is based on Independent.
- Artix Linux ships KDE Plasma, Xfce, more; Void Linux ships Xfce (live image) or your choice.
- Software comes from Pacman · AUR (community) on Artix Linux and XBPS on Void Linux.
- Artix Linux uses OpenRC, runit, s6 or dinit as its init system; Void Linux uses runit.
Choose Artix Linux if…
- choice of four init systems
- arch packages and AUR access
- graphical and base images
Some Arch packages assume systemd
Full Artix Linux profileChoose Void Linux if…
- fast boot with runit
- glibc and musl variants
- independent, well-documented package tooling
Systemd-specific guides need adapting
Full Void Linux profileArtix Linux vs Void Linux: FAQ
Is Artix Linux better than Void Linux?
Neither is better for everyone. Artix Linux is the stronger pick for a different set of needs; Void Linux for a different set of needs.
Which uses less RAM, Artix Linux or Void Linux?
Both need about 2 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop. The desktop environment affects memory use more than the distribution.
Is Artix Linux based on Void Linux?
No. Artix Linux is based on Arch Linux; Void Linux is based on Independent.
Can I switch from Artix Linux to Void 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.