Devuan vs Puppy Linux
Devuan: Debian without systemd, with a choice of init. Puppy Linux: Tiny, runs from RAM, and boots almost anywhere. 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 hardwarePuppy LinuxPuppy Linux needs about 1 GB of RAM versus 2 GB.
- Latest softwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Long-term stabilityDevuanDevuan changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | Devuan | Puppy Linux |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #37 | #36 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Debian | Varies (Ubuntu, Debian or Slackware packages) |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | Xfce, KDE Plasma, more | JWM and other window managers |
| Package management | APT | PPM · varies by release |
| Init system | sysVinit, OpenRC or runit | BusyBox init |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Intermediate |
| Suggested RAM | 2 GB+ | 1 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64, i686 |
| First released | 2014 | 2003 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Servers, Everyday use, Older hardware | Older hardware |
Key differences
- Devuan is based on Debian, while Puppy Linux is based on Varies (Ubuntu, Debian or Slackware packages).
- Devuan ships Xfce, KDE Plasma, more; Puppy Linux ships JWM and other window managers.
- Software comes from APT on Devuan and PPM · varies by release on Puppy Linux.
- Devuan uses sysVinit, OpenRC or runit as its init system; Puppy Linux uses BusyBox init.
- We suggest about 2 GB of RAM for Devuan and 1 GB for Puppy Linux.
Choose Devuan if…
- choice of init system
- debian-compatible packages
- suitable for servers and desktops
Some software expects systemd
Full Devuan profileChoose Puppy Linux if…
- very small download and memory use
- runs entirely from RAM
- useful as a rescue system
Different variants behave differently
Full Puppy Linux profileDevuan vs Puppy Linux: FAQ
Is Devuan better than Puppy Linux?
Neither is better for everyone. Devuan is the stronger pick for long-term stability; Puppy Linux for older hardware.
Which uses less RAM, Devuan or Puppy Linux?
Puppy Linux is lighter: we suggest about 1 GB versus 2 GB. The desktop you choose affects memory use more than the distribution itself.
Is Devuan based on Puppy Linux?
No. Devuan is based on Debian; Puppy Linux is based on Varies (Ubuntu, Debian or Slackware packages).
Can I switch from Devuan to Puppy Linux 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.