I've been exploring DIY Linux distributions and have tried Artix with OpenRC. I'm now considering Void Linux, but I'm unsure how it compares to plain Arch or Artix. What are the compatibility differences? I'm also looking for a distribution that allows package managers to remove config files or at least compress them. I'm interested in non-systemd init systems, as I've found they perform better and are simpler based on my experience with Artix. Are there any other good DIY Linux distros aside from Gentoo, which I'm hesitant to dive into? I'd like something with a package manager similar to the AUR or with a decent number of packages so I won't have to rely on the AUR.
3 Answers
I’d say Gentoo is worth a shot! It has Portage, which is pretty powerful. Plus, it's great if you need specific configurations without too much hassle. Just keep in mind it can be quite complex at times, but if you're comfortable with Artix, you might find Gentoo manageable.
If you're looking for something a little different, consider Chimera Linux. It's unique because it uses FreeBSD's userland and Dinit as its init system. Just a heads-up, its package manager doesn’t have sudo, and the repo is small, but it’s interesting if you want to explore outside the GNU/Linux norm.
Chimera sounds intriguing! I've not tried it yet but was curious how it stacks up against others.
Void Linux is another route. It's modular and flexible, a bit like Debian, and has quick boot times which is a plus. Just be aware that the repo size is smaller compared to Arch, so you might miss some specific packages like Hyprland. It's worth a try, though if you're coming from Arch, you'll need to adjust your thinking a bit since it isn't as spoon-fed as Arch.
Good point! I found Void quick to boot but missing some recent packages—definitely check that out.
Complex? It's a beast to set up, but once you get going, it can be really rewarding!