AlmaLinux
The Enterprise Successor
- Enterprise-grade stability
- CentOS successor
- Strong community support
- Regular security updates
- Less cutting-edge software
- Heavier system requirements
Best for
Enterprise environments
AlmaLinux vs Void Linux
AlmaLinux and Void Linux offer distinct advantages to different types of users. This page explores their unique features, strengths, and ideal use cases to help you decide which Linux distribution is right for you.
Void Linux
The Independent Choice
- Rolling release model
- Unique packaging system
- Lightweight and fast
- BSD-like init system
- Smaller user base
- Less beginner-friendly
Best for
Advanced users
TL;DR: Pick AlmaLinux for enterprise stability. Pick Void Linux for a lightweight, customizable experience.
Side-by-side comparison
How they stack up across key categories.
Ease of use
AlmaLinux
AlmaLinux offers a familiar environment for CentOS users with extensive documentation.
Linux
Void Linux requires more manual configuration, suitable for experienced users.
Desktop feel
AlmaLinux
AlmaLinux provides a classic, stable desktop experience with GNOME.
Linux
Void Linux allows for highly customizable desktops, often using lighter environments like XFCE.
Stability
AlmaLinux
AlmaLinux prioritizes stability, making it ideal for servers and enterprise use.
Linux
Void Linux's rolling release model can introduce occasional instability, but generally remains reliable.
Updates
AlmaLinux
AlmaLinux follows a predictable update schedule with frequent security patches.
Linux
Void Linux provides continuous updates as part of its rolling release model.
Software access
AlmaLinux
AlmaLinux supports a wide range of software typical of RHEL-based distributions.
Linux
Void Linux uses XBPS, offering a unique selection of packages and rapid updates.
Privacy
AlmaLinux
AlmaLinux offers standard privacy features typical of RHEL-based systems.
Linux
Void Linux is privacy-conscious, with minimal telemetry and user tracking.
Community & docs
AlmaLinux
AlmaLinux benefits from a strong community and comprehensive documentation.
Linux
Void Linux has a smaller community, but active forums and a dedicated user base.
Gaming
AlmaLinux
AlmaLinux can handle gaming but is not specifically optimized for it.
Linux
Void Linux, with lighter desktop environments, can be tuned for gaming efficiency.
Pros & cons summary
AlmaLinux
Pros
- AlmaLinux provides enterprise-grade stability, making it ideal for server environments.
- As a successor to CentOS, it offers a familiar environment for CentOS users.
- It has a strong community backing, ensuring well-maintained documentation and support.
- Regular security updates are prioritized to ensure system integrity.
- Compatible with RHEL, enabling access to a wide range of enterprise software.
Cons
- AlmaLinux tends to lag behind cutting-edge software releases due to its focus on stability.
- System requirements may be heavier compared to more lightweight distributions.
Void Linux
Pros
- Void Linux uses a rolling release model, ensuring access to the latest software.
- It features a unique packaging system, XBPS, which is fast and efficient.
- The system is lightweight, making it suitable for older hardware.
- Void uses the runit init system, which provides fast boot times and simplicity.
- Independently developed, offering a unique take on Linux distributions.
Cons
- The user base is smaller, which may impact the availability of community support.
- The distribution is less beginner-friendly, with a steeper learning curve.
- Documentation can be sparse compared to more mainstream distributions.
Which should you pick?
Quick recommendations for common scenarios.
Switching from Windows
Pick: AlmaLinux
It offers a more familiar environment for those used to traditional desktops.
Following Tutorials
Pick: Either
Both have good documentation, but Void may require more advanced knowledge.
Older Hardware
Pick: Void Linux
Its lightweight nature makes it ideal for older systems.
Gaming
Pick: Void Linux
Its customizable and lightweight configuration can optimize performance.
Work/Professional Use
Pick: AlmaLinux
Its stability and enterprise support make it suitable for professional environments.
Simple Daily Desktop
Pick: AlmaLinux
Provides a straightforward, stable environment for everyday tasks.
FAQ
Quick answers to common questions.
What is the relationship between AlmaLinux and CentOS?
AlmaLinux is a fork of CentOS, created to provide a free alternative to RHEL after CentOS shifted focus to CentOS Stream.
Which distro is more beginner-friendly?
AlmaLinux is generally more beginner-friendly due to its stable environment and extensive documentation.
How do the performance and speed compare?
Void Linux is lightweight and often faster, especially on older hardware, while AlmaLinux focuses on stability, which may impact speed.
Can I try these distros before installing?
Yes, both distros offer live environments that you can boot from a USB to try before installing.
How is the software compatibility?
AlmaLinux has broad compatibility with enterprise software, while Void Linux offers a unique selection of packages through its XBPS system.
What about hardware support?
AlmaLinux benefits from compatibility with hardware supported by RHEL. Void Linux supports a wide range of hardware but may require more manual setup.
Describe the release cycles of each distro.
AlmaLinux follows a stable release cycle similar to RHEL, while Void Linux uses a rolling release model for continuous updates.
Is it easy to switch between these distros?
Switching involves backing up data and reinstalling, as they have different base systems. Each offers unique features, so choose based on your needs.
Compare another pair?
Generate a clean "vs" page for any two distros.