Slackware vs Void Linux
Slackware: The oldest maintained distribution, simple by design. Void Linux: An independent rolling system with runit. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- GamingVoid LinuxVoid Linux gets newer drivers and kernels faster.
- Older hardwareVoid LinuxSimilar memory needs, but Void Linux offers a lighter desktop option.
- Latest softwareVoid LinuxVoid Linux uses a rolling model; Slackware is stable.
- Long-term stabilitySlackwareSlackware changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | Slackware | Void Linux |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #24 | #30 |
| Latest version | 15.0 (Feb 3, 2022) | — |
| Based on | Independent | Independent |
| Release model | Stable | Rolling |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, Xfce | Xfce (live image) or your choice |
| Package management | pkgtool · slackpkg | XBPS |
| Init system | BSD-style init | runit |
| Experience level | Advanced | Advanced |
| Suggested RAM | 2 GB+ | 2 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64, i686 | x86_64, i686, aarch64 |
| First released | 1993 | 2008 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Servers, Development | Development, Older hardware |
Key differences
- Slackware follows a stable release model; Void Linux is rolling.
- Slackware ships KDE Plasma, Xfce; Void Linux ships Xfce (live image) or your choice.
- Software comes from pkgtool · slackpkg on Slackware and XBPS on Void Linux.
- Slackware uses BSD-style init as its init system; Void Linux uses runit.
Choose Slackware if…
- simple, transparent system design
- very long project history
- minimal distribution-specific tooling
No automatic dependency resolution
Full Slackware 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 profileSlackware vs Void Linux: FAQ
Is Slackware better than Void Linux?
Neither is better for everyone. Slackware is the stronger pick for long-term stability; Void Linux for gaming, older hardware, latest software.
Which uses less RAM, Slackware or Void Linux?
Both need about 2 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop. The desktop environment affects memory use more than the distribution.
Is Slackware based on Void Linux?
No. Slackware is based on Independent; Void Linux is based on Independent.
Can I switch from Slackware 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.