Alternatives to Damn Small Linux
A revived compact Linux distribution for low-spec x86 computers, based on antiX. The listings below can replace it for an important use case. Each note says what changes if you switch.
The original
Damn Small Linux
A revived compact Linux distribution for low-spec x86 computers, based on antiX.
Replacements
Listings that take over the same core job as Damn Small Linux.
antiX
A fast, lightweight live Linux distribution based on Debian Stable, without systemd or elogind.
antiX is the Debian Stable base Damn Small Linux builds on, offering several editions without systemd, well developed live-USB support and monthly snapshots.
Puppy Linux
A family of small Linux distributions for home computers, sharing the same Puppy tools.
Puppy Linux is a family of small live distributions on different bases sharing Puppy tools, using its own .pet package format and a long-running active forum.
4MLinux
A small feature-oriented Linux distribution for maintenance, multimedia, a mini server and games.
4MLinux is a small distribution combining rescue, multimedia, mini server and game roles with regular stable releases, though its website and documentation are minimal.
Porteus
A small, modular Slackware-based Linux system built to run from a USB drive, CD or disk.
Porteus is a Slackware-based modular system under 300 MB that runs portably from USB, CD or disk, with a module system unlike mainstream package management.
Bodhi Linux
A lightweight Ubuntu-based Linux distribution with the Moksha desktop, derived from Enlightenment.
Bodhi Linux moves to an Ubuntu base with the themeable Moksha desktop and a 32-bit non-PAE build for old hardware, maintained by a small team.
Linux Lite
A lightweight, beginner-friendly Linux distribution for older computers and people moving from Windows.
Linux Lite is a beginner-friendly distribution for older computers with a built-in help manual and forums, offering a fuller desktop than Fluxbox or JWM.
Q4OS
A lightweight Debian-based desktop Linux distribution aimed at ease of use and less powerful hardware.
Q4OS is a lightweight Debian-based desktop aimed at ease of use on low-powered hardware, with tools to remove unneeded components and an ARM edition.
BunsenLabs Linux
A Debian-based distribution with a preconfigured, lightweight Openbox desktop, continuing CrunchBang Linux.
BunsenLabs Linux is Debian-based with a preconfigured Openbox, tint2 and conky desktop, but i386 media are no longer offered for its current release.
Similar software
Related functionality, not a direct replacement.
MX Linux
A midweight desktop Linux distribution based on Debian Stable, built with antiX components and MX tools.
Emmabuntüs
A Debian-based Linux distribution designed for refurbishing and reusing older computers.
SparkyLinux
A fast, customizable Debian-based Linux distribution offered in several versions for different uses.
Peppermint OS
A minimal Xfce Linux distribution based on Debian or Devuan that lets you choose your own applications.
Lubuntu
An official Ubuntu flavour with the LXQt desktop, designed to be fast and lightweight.
