CentOS Stream
The Rolling Server
- Continuous updates
- Strong enterprise backing
- Reliable performance
- Wide community support
- Less stable than CentOS Linux
- Not ideal for desktop use
Best for
Server environments
CentOS Stream vs Void Linux
CentOS Stream and Void Linux cater to different audiences, with the former targeting server environments and the latter appealing to advanced desktop users. This comparison covers their features, strengths, and ideal use cases.
Void Linux
DIY Rolling Release
- Independent package system
- Musl libc option
- Runit init system
- Minimal and lightweight
- Steeper learning curve
- Smaller community
Best for
Advanced users
TL;DR: Pick CentOS Stream for enterprise server environments. Choose Void Linux for a lightweight, customizable desktop experience.
Side-by-side comparison
How they stack up across key categories.
Ease of use
Stream
CentOS Stream is straightforward for users familiar with Red Hat, but may confuse those new to rolling releases.
Linux
Void Linux requires a deeper understanding of Linux and is best suited for users comfortable with manual configurations.
Desktop feel
Stream
CentOS Stream is not optimized for desktop use, focusing instead on server stability and performance.
Linux
Void Linux provides a minimal desktop experience, allowing users to customize their environment fully.
Stability
Stream
Offers good stability for a rolling release, with Red Hat's backing ensuring enterprise-grade reliability.
Linux
Void Linux is stable but requires user intervention to maintain system integrity due to its independent nature.
Updates
Stream
Features a rolling release model with continuous updates, providing the latest features and fixes.
Linux
Also rolling release, Void Linux provides updates through XBPS, offering flexibility in how updates are applied.
Software access
Stream
Access to a wide range of software thanks to Red Hat and EPEL repositories, suitable for server needs.
Linux
Features a curated selection of packages via XBPS, with a focus on simplicity and performance.
Privacy
Stream
CentOS Stream doesn't focus heavily on privacy features but benefits from Red Hat's security practices.
Linux
Void Linux's minimal approach allows for enhanced privacy configurations, appealing to privacy-conscious users.
Community & docs
Stream
Supported by a large community with extensive documentation, thanks to its Red Hat heritage.
Linux
A smaller but dedicated community, with documentation that may require more effort to navigate.
Gaming
Stream
Not primarily designed for gaming; better suited for server tasks, though compatible with common Linux gaming tools.
Linux
Void Linux can be configured for gaming, but requires manual setup and configuration for optimal performance.
Pros & cons summary
CentOS Stream
Pros
- CentOS Stream offers a rolling release model, providing continuous updates that are more up-to-date compared to traditional CentOS.
- It benefits from the enterprise backing of Red Hat, ensuring strong support and reliability.
- Performance is optimized for server environments, making it a solid choice for enterprise applications.
- A large community and extensive documentation provide ample support and resources for troubleshooting and optimization.
Cons
- Being a rolling release, CentOS Stream may introduce less stability compared to the traditional point release model of CentOS Linux.
- Due to its server-oriented nature, it may not be the best choice for desktop users seeking an out-of-the-box experience.
Void Linux
Pros
- Void Linux uses its own package management system, XBPS, which allows for flexible and efficient software management.
- Offers the option to use musl libc, enhancing performance and security for advanced users.
- Employs the Runit init system, which is known for its simplicity and speed, improving boot times and system management.
- Designed to be minimal and lightweight, allowing users to build their system from the ground up.
Cons
- The DIY nature of Void Linux presents a steeper learning curve, making it less suitable for beginners.
- With a smaller community compared to more mainstream distros, finding support and documentation can be more challenging.
Which should you pick?
Quick recommendations for common scenarios.
Switching from Windows
Pick: Void Linux
For users looking to customize their system and learn Linux in depth, Void provides a flexible environment.
Following Tutorials
Pick: CentOS Stream
Has extensive documentation and community support, making it easier to follow tutorials.
Older Hardware
Pick: Void Linux
Its lightweight nature and minimal resource usage make it ideal for older systems.
Gaming
Pick: Void Linux
Allows for custom gaming setups with a focus on performance and efficiency.
Work/Professional Use
Pick: CentOS Stream
Enterprise-grade stability and support make it suitable for professional environments.
Simple Daily Desktop
Pick: Void Linux
Offers a clean slate to create a personalized and streamlined desktop experience.
FAQ
Quick answers to common questions.
What's the relationship between CentOS Stream and Void Linux?
CentOS Stream is a downstream of Red Hat Enterprise Linux, while Void Linux is an independent distro, not based on any other.
Which distro is more beginner-friendly?
CentOS Stream is more approachable for users familiar with Red Hat. Void Linux is better suited for advanced users due to its DIY nature.
How do they compare in terms of performance/speed?
Void Linux is optimized for speed with its lightweight design and Runit init system. CentOS Stream provides consistent performance suitable for servers.
Can I try these distros before installing?
Both distros offer live images, allowing users to test the systems without installing them on their primary hardware.
How is software compatibility handled?
CentOS Stream benefits from Red Hat's extensive repository, while Void Linux uses its XBPS system, focusing on simplicity and performance.
What about hardware support?
CentOS Stream has strong enterprise-level hardware support. Void Linux's support depends more on the community and available drivers.
What are the release cycles like?
CentOS Stream has a rolling release model with continuous updates. Void Linux also uses a rolling release, providing flexibility in update management.
Is it easy to switch between these distros?
Switching requires reinstalling and configuring the system from scratch, as they have different package management and system setups.
Compare another pair?
Generate a clean "vs" page for any two distros.