CentOS Stream vs Devuan
CentOS Stream: The continuously delivered upstream of RHEL. 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 hardwareDevuanSimilar memory needs, but Devuan offers a lighter desktop option.
- Latest softwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Long-term stabilityTieBoth are a similar fit here.
Specs compared
| Feature | CentOS Stream | Devuan |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #39 | #37 |
| Latest version | 10 (Dec 12, 2024) | — |
| Based on | RHEL upstream | Debian |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | GNOME (optional) | Xfce, KDE Plasma, more |
| Package management | DNF · RPM | APT |
| Init system | systemd | sysVinit, OpenRC or runit |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Intermediate |
| Suggested RAM | 2 GB+ | 2 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64, aarch64, ppc64le, s390x | x86_64 |
| First released | 2019 | 2014 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Servers, Development | Servers, Everyday use, Older hardware |
Key differences
- CentOS Stream is based on RHEL upstream, while Devuan is based on Debian.
- CentOS Stream ships GNOME (optional); Devuan ships Xfce, KDE Plasma, more.
- Software comes from DNF · RPM on CentOS Stream and APT on Devuan.
- CentOS Stream uses systemd as its init system; Devuan uses sysVinit, OpenRC or runit.
Choose CentOS Stream if…
- preview of upcoming RHEL changes
- open contribution path to RHEL
- enterprise tooling
Updates arrive before RHEL’s testing is complete
Full CentOS Stream profileChoose Devuan if…
- choice of init system
- debian-compatible packages
- suitable for servers and desktops
Some software expects systemd
Full Devuan profileCentOS Stream vs Devuan: FAQ
Is CentOS Stream better than Devuan?
Neither is better for everyone. CentOS Stream is the stronger pick for a different set of needs; Devuan for older hardware.
Which uses less RAM, CentOS Stream or Devuan?
Both need about 2 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop. The desktop environment affects memory use more than the distribution.
Is CentOS Stream based on Devuan?
No. CentOS Stream is based on RHEL upstream; Devuan is based on Debian.
Can I switch from CentOS Stream 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.