Devuan vs SparkyLinux
Devuan: Debian without systemd, with a choice of init. SparkyLinux: Debian stable or testing, with many desktop choices. 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 hardwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Latest softwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Long-term stabilityDevuanDevuan changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | Devuan | SparkyLinux |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #37 | #50 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Debian | Debian Stable / Testing |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | Xfce, KDE Plasma, more | LXQt, KDE Plasma, Xfce, MATE |
| Package management | APT | APT · APTus |
| Init system | sysVinit, OpenRC or runit | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Intermediate |
| Suggested RAM | 2 GB+ | 2 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64, aarch64 |
| First released | 2014 | 2012 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Servers, Everyday use, Older hardware | Everyday use, Older hardware |
Key differences
- Devuan is based on Debian, while SparkyLinux is based on Debian Stable / Testing.
- Devuan ships Xfce, KDE Plasma, more; SparkyLinux ships LXQt, KDE Plasma, Xfce, MATE.
- Software comes from APT on Devuan and APT · APTus on SparkyLinux.
- Devuan uses sysVinit, OpenRC or runit as its init system; SparkyLinux uses systemd.
Choose Devuan if…
- choice of init system
- debian-compatible packages
- suitable for servers and desktops
Some software expects systemd
Full Devuan profileChoose SparkyLinux if…
- stable and semi-rolling lines
- many desktop editions
- handy APTus installers
Testing-based line can break more often
Full SparkyLinux profileDevuan vs SparkyLinux: FAQ
Is Devuan better than SparkyLinux?
Neither is better for everyone. Devuan is the stronger pick for long-term stability; SparkyLinux for a different set of needs.
Which uses less RAM, Devuan or SparkyLinux?
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 SparkyLinux?
No. Devuan is based on Debian; SparkyLinux is based on Debian Stable / Testing.
Can I switch from Devuan to SparkyLinux 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.