Void Linux vs openSUSE: What are the differences?

Introduction

Void Linux and openSUSE are two popular Linux distributions known for their unique features and functionalities. Here are the key differences between Void Linux and openSUSE.

1. Package Management: Void Linux utilizes its own package manager called XBPS, which is designed to be lightweight and efficient. It boasts a binary package system and focuses on simplicity and stability. On the other hand, openSUSE uses zypper as its package manager, which provides extensive features such as dependency resolution, package installation tracking, and rollback capabilities.

2. Init System: Void Linux uses runit as its default init system. Runit is a simple and lightweight init system that emphasizes simplicity and ease of use. In contrast, openSUSE utilizes systemd, a modern and robust init system that offers advanced features like parallel startup, on-demand starting of services, and resource management.

3. Release Model: Void Linux follows a rolling release model, where software packages are continuously updated and delivered to users in a rolling manner. This means that once installed, users can receive the latest updates without the need to reinstall the entire distribution. On the other hand, openSUSE employs a hybrid release model with regular release versions (Leap) and a rolling release version (Tumbleweed). Users can choose between the stability of Leap or the bleeding-edge updates of Tumbleweed.

4. Default Desktop Environment: Void Linux does not come with any specific default desktop environment, allowing users the freedom to choose their preferred desktop environment during installation. On the contrary, openSUSE offers multiple editions with various desktop environments to cater to different user preferences, including GNOME, KDE Plasma, Xfce, LXQt, and more.

5. Community and Support: Void Linux has a smaller community compared to openSUSE. While it has an active development team and dedicated users, the community support for Void Linux might be relatively limited in comparison. Conversely, openSUSE has a larger and highly active community along with well-established forums, documentation, and resources, making it easier for users to find assistance and troubleshoot any issues they encounter.

6. Base System: Void Linux uses the musl libc as its standard C library, which is designed to be lightweight and optimized for performance and small binary size. This choice aligns with Void Linux's philosophy of minimalism. In contrast, openSUSE uses the glibc as its default C library, which is a more traditional and widely used C library, offering compatibility with a broader range of software.

In summary, Void Linux focuses on simplicity, lightweightness, and allows greater customization with its own package manager and choice of desktop environment, while openSUSE offers a wider range of desktop environment options, multiple release models, a larger community, and wider software compatibility with its popular package manager and traditional C library.