Devuan vs Lubuntu
Devuan: Debian without systemd, with a choice of init. Lubuntu: A lightweight Ubuntu flavour with LXQt. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersLubuntuLubuntu is rated beginner; Devuan is intermediate.
- GamingTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Older hardwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Latest softwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Long-term stabilityDevuanDevuan changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | Devuan | Lubuntu |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #37 | #34 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Debian | Ubuntu |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | Xfce, KDE Plasma, more | LXQt |
| Package management | APT | APT · Snap |
| Init system | sysVinit, OpenRC or runit | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 2 GB+ | 2 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2014 | 2011 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Servers, Everyday use, Older hardware | Older hardware, Everyday use |
Key differences
- Devuan is based on Debian, while Lubuntu is based on Ubuntu.
- Devuan ships Xfce, KDE Plasma, more; Lubuntu ships LXQt.
- Software comes from APT on Devuan and APT · Snap on Lubuntu.
- Devuan uses sysVinit, OpenRC or runit as its init system; Lubuntu uses systemd.
- Devuan is best for intermediate users; Lubuntu 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 Lubuntu if…
- light LXQt desktop
- ubuntu package base
- simple, familiar layout
64-bit only in current releases
Full Lubuntu profileDevuan vs Lubuntu: FAQ
Is Devuan better than Lubuntu?
Neither is better for everyone. Devuan is the stronger pick for long-term stability; Lubuntu for beginners.
Which uses less RAM, Devuan or Lubuntu?
Both need about 2 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop. The desktop environment affects memory use more than the distribution.
Is Devuan based on Lubuntu?
No. Devuan is based on Debian; Lubuntu is based on Ubuntu.
Can I switch from Devuan to Lubuntu 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.