Linux Mint vs Void Linux
Linux Mint: A familiar desktop. A comfortable place to start. Void Linux: An independent rolling system with runit. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersLinux MintLinux Mint is rated beginner; Void Linux is advanced.
- GamingVoid LinuxVoid Linux gets newer drivers and kernels faster.
- Older hardwareVoid LinuxVoid Linux needs about 2 GB of RAM versus 4 GB.
- Latest softwareVoid LinuxVoid Linux uses a rolling model; Linux Mint is stable.
- Long-term stabilityLinux MintLinux Mint changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | Linux Mint | Void Linux |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #2 | #30 |
| Latest version | 22.3 (Jan 11, 2026) | — |
| Based on | Ubuntu LTS | Independent |
| Release model | Stable | Rolling |
| Desktop | Cinnamon, MATE, Xfce | Xfce (live image) or your choice |
| Package management | APT · Flatpak | XBPS |
| Init system | systemd | runit |
| Experience level | Beginner | Advanced |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 2 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64, i686, aarch64 |
| First released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Everyday use, Older hardware, Development | Development, Older hardware |
Key differences
- Linux Mint is based on Ubuntu LTS, while Void Linux is based on Independent.
- Linux Mint follows a stable release model; Void Linux is rolling.
- Linux Mint ships Cinnamon, MATE, Xfce; Void Linux ships Xfce (live image) or your choice.
- Software comes from APT · Flatpak on Linux Mint and XBPS on Void Linux.
- Linux Mint uses systemd as its init system; Void Linux uses runit.
- We suggest about 4 GB of RAM for Linux Mint and 2 GB for Void Linux.
- Linux Mint is best for beginner users; Void Linux for advanced users.
Choose Linux Mint if…
- familiar desktop layout with useful defaults
- graphical software and update managers
- choose Xfce for a lighter desktop
Packages can be older than on rolling distributions
Full Linux Mint profileChoose Void Linux if…
- fast boot with runit
- glibc and musl variants
- independent, well-documented package tooling
Systemd-specific guides need adapting
Full Void Linux profileLinux Mint vs Void Linux: FAQ
Is Linux Mint better than Void Linux?
Neither is better for everyone. Linux Mint is the stronger pick for beginners, long-term stability; Void Linux for gaming, older hardware, latest software.
Which uses less RAM, Linux Mint or Void Linux?
Void Linux is lighter: we suggest about 2 GB versus 4 GB. The desktop you choose affects memory use more than the distribution itself.
Is Linux Mint based on Void Linux?
No. Linux Mint is based on Ubuntu LTS; Void Linux is based on Independent.
Can I switch from Linux Mint to Void 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.