Devuan vs Zorin OS
Devuan: Debian without systemd, with a choice of init. Zorin OS: A gentle switch from the desktop you know. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersZorin OSZorin OS 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 stabilityDevuanDevuan changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | Devuan | Zorin OS |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #37 | #7 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Debian | Ubuntu LTS |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | Xfce, KDE Plasma, more | GNOME-based (Xfce in Lite) |
| Package management | APT | APT · Flatpak · Snap |
| Init system | sysVinit, OpenRC or runit | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 2 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2014 | 2008 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Servers, Everyday use, Older hardware | Everyday use, Older hardware |
Key differences
- Devuan is based on Debian, while Zorin OS is based on Ubuntu LTS.
- Devuan ships Xfce, KDE Plasma, more; Zorin OS ships GNOME-based (Xfce in Lite).
- Software comes from APT on Devuan and APT · Flatpak · Snap on Zorin OS.
- Devuan uses sysVinit, OpenRC or runit as its init system; Zorin OS uses systemd.
- We suggest about 2 GB of RAM for Devuan and 4 GB for Zorin OS.
- Devuan is best for intermediate users; Zorin 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 Zorin OS if…
- familiar desktop layouts
- graphical tools for common tasks
- ubuntu-compatible software ecosystem
Some layouts and bundles require a paid edition
Full Zorin OS profileDevuan vs Zorin OS: FAQ
Is Devuan better than Zorin OS?
Neither is better for everyone. Devuan is the stronger pick for older hardware, long-term stability; Zorin OS for beginners.
Which uses less RAM, Devuan or Zorin OS?
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 Zorin OS?
No. Devuan is based on Debian; Zorin OS is based on Ubuntu LTS.
Can I switch from Devuan to Zorin 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.