When comparing SliTaz vs Linux From Scratch, the Slant community recommends SliTaz for most people. In the question“What are the best Linux distributions for desktops?” SliTaz is ranked 27th while Linux From Scratch is ranked 63rd. The most important reason people chose SliTaz is:
The core liveCD is only 35 megabytes. The boot-from-internet option fits on a floppy.
Specs
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Pros
Pro One of the smallest distributions with desktop GUI
The core liveCD is only 35 megabytes. The boot-from-internet option fits on a floppy.
Pro Very fast
Pro Can add desktop effects
SliTaz has a feature called "Desktop Effects" which can add shadow or fade effects to windows.
Pro Very customizable
SliTaz is very customizable. You can programatically edit and change anything you want on how the OS looks or behaves.
Pro Best for learning the components, libraries and configurations of the whole system one-by-one
It is an opportunity for the learner to learn what's behind every piece of program in the system, because you will install and configure all the packages manually. It is also as an advantage to expand your knowledge by searching the possibilities of crafting your unique flavor, for example your own package manager and update schemes.
Pro For those who wonder what it takes to create an actual Linux distribution
It's a very useful learning experience; showing the user what is required and in what order, to obtain a running Linux system - from the inside out.
Cons
Con Install instructions are in French
When first booting SliTaz from a USB or from a Live CD, the installation instructions are in French.
Con Not much variety as to available applications
SliTaz does not have as many applications in its repositories as the bigger distros such as Ubuntu.
Con Not recommended for Beginners
By creating a Linux system from scratch you will be managing and compiling all of the systems packages by hand, so advanced Linux knowledge is recommended.
Con Takes a while to create the system. Only for those people who would like to create their very own distribution, or just to understand what makes a Linux system tick.
Linux From Scratch, requires the user to download and compile, all the various required system libraries and programs in a ch-rooted environment. This is usually done from within an existing and already running Linux system. This is not really a con, just a note to the new user.
