Devuan vs Linux Mint
Devuan: Debian without systemd, with a choice of init. Linux Mint: A familiar desktop. A comfortable place to start. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersLinux MintLinux Mint is rated beginner; Devuan is intermediate.
- GamingTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Older hardwareDevuanDevuan needs about 2 GB of RAM versus 4 GB.
- Latest softwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Long-term stabilityDevuanDevuan changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | Devuan | Linux Mint |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #37 | #2 |
| Latest version | — | 22.3 (Jan 11, 2026) |
| Based on | Debian | Ubuntu LTS |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | Xfce, KDE Plasma, more | Cinnamon, MATE, Xfce |
| Package management | APT | APT · Flatpak |
| Init system | sysVinit, OpenRC or runit | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 2 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2014 | 2006 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Servers, Everyday use, Older hardware | Everyday use, Older hardware, Development |
Key differences
- Devuan is based on Debian, while Linux Mint is based on Ubuntu LTS.
- Devuan ships Xfce, KDE Plasma, more; Linux Mint ships Cinnamon, MATE, Xfce.
- Software comes from APT on Devuan and APT · Flatpak on Linux Mint.
- Devuan uses sysVinit, OpenRC or runit as its init system; Linux Mint uses systemd.
- We suggest about 2 GB of RAM for Devuan and 4 GB for Linux Mint.
- Devuan is best for intermediate users; Linux Mint for beginner users.
Choose Devuan if…
- choice of init system
- debian-compatible packages
- suitable for servers and desktops
Some software expects systemd
Full Devuan profileChoose Linux Mint if…
- familiar desktop layout with useful defaults
- graphical software and update managers
- choose Xfce for a lighter desktop
Packages can be older than on rolling distributions
Full Linux Mint profileDevuan vs Linux Mint: FAQ
Is Devuan better than Linux Mint?
Neither is better for everyone. Devuan is the stronger pick for older hardware, long-term stability; Linux Mint for beginners.
Which uses less RAM, Devuan or Linux Mint?
Devuan is lighter: we suggest about 2 GB versus 4 GB. The desktop you choose affects memory use more than the distribution itself.
Is Devuan based on Linux Mint?
No. Devuan is based on Debian; Linux Mint is based on Ubuntu LTS.
Can I switch from Devuan to Linux Mint 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.