What is Slax? Who it is for
Slax is built on Debian. It uses Fluxbox as its desktop and apt for software, and it follows numbered releases on a fixed schedule.
Slax at a glance
- Foundation: built on Debian
- Desktop: Fluxbox
- Software tools: apt
- Release style: numbered releases on a fixed schedule
- Installer: a portable USB setup
Who Slax suits
Slax suits people who want a pocket-sized live system that starts fast.
Strengths
- Low memory and processor use, which helps older or modest computers feel quick.
- Small and quick to start, which makes it handy for repair, recovery and portable use.
Things to consider
- The lighter design means fewer built-in features and a plainer look than the big desktops.
- It is designed for portable or temporary use, so it suits a live USB drive better than a permanent daily system.
- As a rough guide, about 1 GB of RAM is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Try Slax from a USB drive
The easiest way to find out is to start it from a USB drive without changing your computer. See the Slax bootable USB drive, then follow our install guide when you are ready. New to this? Read how to try Linux without installing it and how to boot from a USB drive.
Installing software on Slax
Slax uses apt. These commands search for a program and install it (replace name with the program):
apt search name sudo apt install name
Most desktop systems also have a graphical software store. See how to install software on Linux.
Frequently asked questions
Is Slax good for beginners?
It can be used by beginners, but Slax is aimed more at people who want a pocket-sized live system that starts fast. If you are brand new, a beginner-friendly distribution such as Linux Mint or Ubuntu is usually an easier first step.
What desktop does Slax use?
Slax uses Fluxbox. To learn how desktops differ, read what GNOME, KDE, Xfce and Cinnamon are.
How much RAM does Slax need?
As a rough guide, about 1 GB of RAM is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Is Slax based on another distribution?
Slax is built on Debian.
How often is Slax updated?
Slax follows numbered releases on a fixed schedule.
How can I try Slax without installing it?
Write it to a USB drive, restart, choose the drive from the boot menu and pick the live or try option. Nothing on your internal disk changes unless you choose to install.