Get ready to explore the exciting world of MX Linux 25, code-named 'Infinity'! This latest release brings some intriguing changes and choices that might just spark a debate among Linux enthusiasts.
First off, MX Linux 25 has simplified one decision by dropping the 32-bit x86 edition, leaving only the x86-64 versions. But here's where it gets controversial: some choices have become more complex, especially regarding the init system.
MX Linux 25 is based on Debian 13, which no longer offers a 32-bit version, and MX Linux follows suit. However, the init system, which used to be a boot-time choice, is now a pre-install decision. MX Linux 21 and 23 impressed with their use of sysvinit instead of the controversial systemd, but now, the flavors with sysvinit are in separate downloads. So, you must choose your init system upfront, and switching post-install is not an option.
MX Linux offers three desktop environments: the default Xfce, the powerful KDE Plasma, and the lightweight Fluxbox. The KDE flavor comes with Plasma 6.3.6 and systemd, while the other editions provide Xfce 4.20 or Fluxbox 1.3.7, both available with systemd or sysvinit. To add to the complexity, the flagship Xfce edition has an Advanced Hardware Support (AHS) variant with the Liquorix kernel.
This results in seven different variants, which could be a bit overwhelming for some users.
Xfce:
- Standard kernel 6.12 with systemd (1)
- Standard kernel 6.12 with sysvinit (2)
- AHS kernel 6.16 with systemd (3)
- AHS kernel 6.16 with sysvinit (4)
KDE:
- Kernel 6.12 and systemd (5)
Fluxbox:
- With systemd (6)
- With sysvinit (7)
Despite the added complexity, the project has taken this route. Only time will tell if some options will be phased out in future releases.
Apart from these significant changes, MX Linux 25 introduces new features and improvements. The installation program now supports ZRAM memory compression, which is useful for machines with limited write capabilities, like those running off USB keys or microSD cards. The MX installer also offers an option to replace an existing Linux installation, preserving the /home tree contents.
MX Linux 25 also inherits support for the new deb822 repository config file format, and the MX Tools suite has been updated to use Qt6. The three desktops have received some polishing, with tweaks to the Xfce Whisker menu, Plasma's Dolphin file manager, and Fluxbox's panel layout and app menus.
MX's Xfce configuration is one of the best, with a vertical panel for efficient widescreen use, and the Docklike Taskbar plugin. This brings a Windows-like iconic taskbar, allowing apps to be pinned for easier launching. The Whisker menu replaces Xfce's simple launch menu, offering search and session management features. MX's layout is more intuitive than Xubuntu's single panel and Xfce's default, making it a top choice for many users.
We tested the systemd and sysvinit versions of the Xfce edition side by side, and found no noticeable differences in speed or responsiveness. The only difference was a slight RAM usage reduction with the sysvinit variant.
We also tried the sysvinit edition on a Thinkpad W520, but MX Linux couldn't wake up the NVIDIA Quadro 1000M GPU, leaving the second display dark. This is a known issue with newer kernels and NVIDIA drivers, and some modern distros manage to overcome it.
Despite this small hiccup, MX Linux 25 performed well overall. Its Xfce configuration is sophisticated, and it offers an improved Nala package manager, making updates and adjustments easier.
MX Linux 25 provides a great option for those seeking a Debian-based distro without Ubuntu's deeper changes, and with the flexibility to choose between systemd and sysvinit.
What are your thoughts on MX Linux 25's new features and the init system debate? Do you prefer the simplicity of a single init system, or the flexibility of having choices? Share your thoughts in the comments!
