Devuan vs Peppermint OS
Devuan: Debian without systemd, with a choice of init. Peppermint OS: A light Debian-based desktop with minimal defaults. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersPeppermint OSPeppermint OS 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 | Peppermint OS |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #37 | #45 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Debian | Debian Stable |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | Xfce, KDE Plasma, more | Xfce |
| Package management | APT | APT · Flatpak |
| 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 | 2010 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Servers, Everyday use, Older hardware | Older hardware, Everyday use |
Key differences
- Devuan is based on Debian, while Peppermint OS is based on Debian Stable.
- Devuan ships Xfce, KDE Plasma, more; Peppermint OS ships Xfce.
- Software comes from APT on Devuan and APT · Flatpak on Peppermint OS.
- Devuan uses sysVinit, OpenRC or runit as its init system; Peppermint OS uses systemd.
- Devuan is best for intermediate users; Peppermint OS 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 Peppermint OS if…
- lean install with Debian underneath
- devuan variant without systemd
- simple welcome tools
Community-maintained with a small team
Full Peppermint OS profileDevuan vs Peppermint OS: FAQ
Is Devuan better than Peppermint OS?
Neither is better for everyone. Devuan is the stronger pick for long-term stability; Peppermint OS for beginners.
Which uses less RAM, Devuan or Peppermint OS?
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 Peppermint OS?
No. Devuan is based on Debian; Peppermint OS is based on Debian Stable.
Can I switch from Devuan to Peppermint OS 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.