Devuan vs Ubuntu
Devuan: Debian without systemd, with a choice of init. Ubuntu: Broad support, from your laptop to your server. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersUbuntuUbuntu 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 stabilityTieBoth are a similar fit here.
Specs compared
| Feature | Devuan | Ubuntu |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #37 | #1 |
| Latest version | — | 26.04.1 (Aug 31, 2026) |
| Based on | Debian | Debian |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | Xfce, KDE Plasma, more | GNOME |
| Package management | APT | APT · Snap |
| Init system | sysVinit, OpenRC or runit | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 2 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64, aarch64 |
| First released | 2014 | 2004 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Servers, Everyday use, Older hardware | Everyday use, Development, Servers |
Key differences
- Devuan ships Xfce, KDE Plasma, more; Ubuntu ships GNOME.
- Software comes from APT on Devuan and APT · Snap on Ubuntu.
- Devuan uses sysVinit, OpenRC or runit as its init system; Ubuntu uses systemd.
- We suggest about 2 GB of RAM for Devuan and 4 GB for Ubuntu.
- Devuan is best for intermediate users; Ubuntu 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 Ubuntu if…
- long-term support release options
- extensive documentation and vendor support
- desktop and server editions
Snap is integrated into the default experience
Full Ubuntu profileDevuan vs Ubuntu: FAQ
Is Devuan better than Ubuntu?
Neither is better for everyone. Devuan is the stronger pick for older hardware; Ubuntu for beginners.
Which uses less RAM, Devuan or Ubuntu?
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 Ubuntu?
No. Devuan is based on Debian; Ubuntu is based on Debian.
Can I switch from Devuan to Ubuntu 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.