Artix Linux
Artix Linux keeps the Arch repositories, the AUR and pacman, but replaces systemd with OpenRC, runit, s6 or dinit. It is a rolling system built on the same 512 MB floor as Arch itself.
Artix was forked from Arch in 2017 specifically to offer a systemd-free variant. Because it uses the Arch package repositories, software availability is identical to Arch, while the boot system is a first-class choice during installation. Release images are dated and come in Xfce, Cinnamon, Plasma, GTK and CLI flavours.
Key facts
- First release: 2017 (fork of Arch Linux).
- Rolling model, synced with Arch repositories.
- Choice of OpenRC, runit, s6 or dinit as init.
- 512 MB minimum RAM, pacman package management.
Best for: Arch users who need the AUR and pacman but refuse systemd as PID 1.
Recent releases
| Version | Released | Kernel |
|---|---|---|
| 20240923 | 23 September 2024 | 6.10 |
| 20240614 | 14 June 2024 | 6.9 |
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FAQ
Is Artix compatible with the AUR?
Yes. Artix uses the Arch repositories and the Arch User Repository unchanged; only the init system and a small set of service packages differ.
Which init systems are available?
OpenRC is the default. runit, s6 and dinit images are published in parallel, and the choice can be changed after installation.
How does it differ from Arch Linux?
Package repositories, pacman and kernel are the same. Artix removes systemd and ships alternative service supervision.