Gentoo Linux vs Slackware
Gentoo Linux: Compile and tune every part of the system. Slackware: The oldest maintained distribution, simple by design. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- GamingGentoo LinuxGentoo Linux gets newer drivers and kernels faster.
- Older hardwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Latest softwareGentoo LinuxGentoo Linux uses a rolling model; Slackware is stable.
- Long-term stabilitySlackwareSlackware changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | Gentoo Linux | Slackware |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #22 | #24 |
| Latest version | — | 15.0 (Feb 3, 2022) |
| Based on | Independent | Independent |
| Release model | Rolling | Stable |
| Desktop | Your choice | KDE Plasma, Xfce |
| Package management | Portage (source and binary) | pkgtool · slackpkg |
| Init system | OpenRC or systemd | BSD-style init |
| Experience level | Advanced | Advanced |
| Suggested RAM | 2 GB+ | 2 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64, aarch64, i686 | x86_64, i686 |
| First released | 2002 | 1993 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Development, Servers | Servers, Development |
Key differences
- Gentoo Linux follows a rolling release model; Slackware is stable.
- Gentoo Linux ships Your choice; Slackware ships KDE Plasma, Xfce.
- Software comes from Portage (source and binary) on Gentoo Linux and pkgtool · slackpkg on Slackware.
- Gentoo Linux uses OpenRC or systemd as its init system; Slackware uses BSD-style init.
Choose Gentoo Linux if…
- fine-grained control with USE flags
- choice of init system
- excellent Handbook and wiki
Compiling takes time and power
Full Gentoo Linux profileChoose Slackware if…
- simple, transparent system design
- very long project history
- minimal distribution-specific tooling
No automatic dependency resolution
Full Slackware profileGentoo Linux vs Slackware: FAQ
Is Gentoo Linux better than Slackware?
Neither is better for everyone. Gentoo Linux is the stronger pick for gaming, latest software; Slackware for long-term stability.
Which uses less RAM, Gentoo Linux or Slackware?
Both need about 2 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop. The desktop environment affects memory use more than the distribution.
Is Gentoo Linux based on Slackware?
No. Gentoo Linux is based on Independent; Slackware is based on Independent.
Can I switch from Gentoo Linux to Slackware 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.