Devuan vs Linux Mint Debian Edition
Devuan: Debian without systemd, with a choice of init. Linux Mint Debian Edition: Linux Mint’s desktop on a pure Debian base. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersLinux Mint Debian EditionLinux Mint Debian Edition 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 Debian Edition |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #37 | Not ranked |
| Latest version | — | lmde7 (Oct 14, 2025) |
| Based on | Debian | Debian Stable |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | Xfce, KDE Plasma, more | Cinnamon |
| 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 | 2010 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Servers, Everyday use, Older hardware | Everyday use, Older hardware |
Key differences
- Devuan is based on Debian, while Linux Mint Debian Edition is based on Debian Stable.
- Devuan ships Xfce, KDE Plasma, more; Linux Mint Debian Edition ships Cinnamon.
- Software comes from APT on Devuan and APT · Flatpak on Linux Mint Debian Edition.
- Devuan uses sysVinit, OpenRC or runit as its init system; Linux Mint Debian Edition uses systemd.
- We suggest about 2 GB of RAM for Devuan and 4 GB for Linux Mint Debian Edition.
- Devuan is best for intermediate users; Linux Mint Debian Edition 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 Debian Edition if…
- mint tools and Cinnamon on Debian
- no Snap packages
- familiar Windows-like layout
Only a Cinnamon edition
Full Linux Mint Debian Edition profileDevuan vs Linux Mint Debian Edition: FAQ
Is Devuan better than Linux Mint Debian Edition?
Neither is better for everyone. Devuan is the stronger pick for older hardware, long-term stability; Linux Mint Debian Edition for beginners.
Which uses less RAM, Devuan or Linux Mint Debian Edition?
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 Debian Edition?
No. Devuan is based on Debian; Linux Mint Debian Edition is based on Debian Stable.
Can I switch from Devuan to Linux Mint Debian Edition 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.