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Overview

What it does?

  • Builds custom kernel, image or a Debian based Linux distribution optimized for low-resource hardware,
  • Include filesystem generation, low-level control software, kernel image and bootloader compilation,
  • Provides a consistent user experience by keeping system standards across different platforms.
graph LR
  A[./compile.sh] --> B{Change<br>kernel<br>config};
  B ---> |yes| C["HW"];
  B ---> |no| C["HW"];
  C ---> |branch| D["legacy<br>vendor<br>current<br>edge"];
  D --> |base| E["Debian<br>Ubuntu"];
  E ---> |type| F["CLI"];
  F ---> |type| G["Server"];
  F ---> |type| H["Minimal"];
  E ---> I["Desktop"];
  I ---> K["XFCE"];
  I ---> L["Gnome"];
  I ---> M["Cinammon"];
  I ---> N["KDE Neon"];

Key Advantages

  • Simplicity with interactive graphical interface.
  • Generates widely recognized and well maintained userspace
  • Fast learning curve for complex operations

Check other similarities, advantages and disadvantages compared with leading industry standard build software.

Function Armbian Yocto Buildroot
Target general purpose embedded embedded / IOT
U-boot and kernel compiled from sources compiled from sources compiled from sources
Board support maintenance   complete outside outside
Root file system Debian or Ubuntu based custom custom
Package manager APT any none
Configurability limited large large
Initramfs support yes yes yes
Getting started quick very slow slow
Cross compilation yes yes yes