Side by side
AlmaLinux OS vs Alpine Linux
Both stand on operating systems. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
AlmaLinux OS offers broad deployment options, security errata, and community support without a distribution fee. Its stated update plans vary by major version, and commercial support is separate.
Visit AlmaLinux OSChoose Alpine Linux if you need a free, compact distribution with image options spanning hardware, virtual systems and containers. Its package controls and security design are useful considerations for power users. The handbook is primarily oriented toward traditional desktop and server disk installations, and other scenarios assume sufficient Linux familiarity.
Visit Alpine LinuxThe facts
| AlmaLinux OS | Alpine Linux | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | Not published |
| Runs on | API, Linux, Self-hosted, Windows | Linux, Self-hosted |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | almalinux.org | alpinelinux.org |
| On operating systems | #1 of 42 | #8 of 42 |
AlmaLinux OS: what it does well
- Free enterprise Linux distribution with no fees
- Binary compatible with RHEL
- ISO downloads cover four architectures
- Packages are GPG-signed and verified by default
- Community support is available through forums, chat, and Reddit
What to know first
- Minor versions reach end of life when the next minor version releases
- Commercial support is offered separately
Alpine Linux: what it does well
- Container image requires no more than 8 MB.
- Minimal disk installation needs around 130 MB.
- Split packages let users choose what to install.
- Security tracker monitors CVE, NVD and Alpine issue data.
- Downloads include physical, virtual, container and netboot formats.
What to know first
- The Standard image requires a network connection.
- The handbook assumes Linux familiarity for use cases beyond traditional disk installs.
- Main repository support is typically limited to two years.
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