antiX vs Bodhi Linux: how they differ
antiX and Bodhi Linux are often considered side by side. This page compares what each one is built on, how it looks, how software is installed, how updates arrive and what hardware it needs.
Key differences
- Foundation: antiX is built on Debian, while Bodhi Linux is built on Ubuntu.
- Desktop: antiX uses IceWM or Fluxbox; Bodhi Linux uses Moksha.
- Software tools: both use apt, so install commands are the same.
- Releases: antiX uses numbered releases on a fixed schedule; Bodhi Linux uses long-term releases that stay supported for years.
- Memory: about 512 MB for antiX against about 1 GB for Bodhi Linux is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Choose antiX if
You are among the people with very old or low-memory computers, since it runs without systemd.
Choose Bodhi Linux if
You are among the people who want a minimal, highly customisable and light desktop.
Quick answers
- Which is easier for a beginner? Neither is aimed at first-time users. If this is your first Linux system, try a beginner-friendly distribution first.
- Which suits older hardware? antiX asks for less memory.
- Can I try both? Yes. Start each from a live USB drive without installing, or put both on one drive with Ventoy.
Browse the antiX USB drive or the Bodhi Linux USB drive. Learn more: what is antiX and what is Bodhi Linux.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, antiX or Bodhi Linux?
Neither is better for everyone. Choose by what you need: antiX suits people with very old or low-memory computers, since it runs without systemd, while Bodhi Linux suits people who want a minimal, highly customisable and light desktop.
Can I install both antiX and Bodhi Linux?
Yes. Install each one on its own partition, or try both from a live USB drive first. See dual booting for the idea, which also works between two Linux systems.
Which gets updates faster, antiX or Bodhi Linux?
antiX uses numbered releases on a fixed schedule; Bodhi Linux uses long-term releases that stay supported for years.