Puppy Linux vs Bodhi Linux: how they differ
Puppy Linux 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: Puppy Linux is built independently rather than on another distribution, while Bodhi Linux is built on Ubuntu.
- Desktop: Puppy Linux uses JWM or a similar light desktop; Bodhi Linux uses Moksha.
- Software tools: Puppy Linux uses the Puppy Package Manager; Bodhi Linux uses apt, so the commands you learn for one do not carry over.
- Releases: Puppy Linux uses numbered releases on a fixed schedule; Bodhi Linux uses long-term releases that stay supported for years.
- Memory: about 512 MB for Puppy Linux against about 1 GB for Bodhi Linux is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Choose Puppy Linux if
You are among the people reviving old computers or wanting a portable system that runs from RAM.
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? Puppy Linux 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 Puppy Linux USB drive or the Bodhi Linux USB drive. Learn more: what is Puppy Linux and what is Bodhi Linux.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Puppy Linux or Bodhi Linux?
Neither is better for everyone. Choose by what you need: Puppy Linux suits people reviving old computers or wanting a portable system that runs from RAM, while Bodhi Linux suits people who want a minimal, highly customisable and light desktop.
Can I install both Puppy Linux 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, Puppy Linux or Bodhi Linux?
Puppy Linux uses numbered releases on a fixed schedule; Bodhi Linux uses long-term releases that stay supported for years.