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Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →PorteuX 1.7, announced on 19 October 2024, brought smaller ISO images and a set of build, kernel, and startup changes that the project said were intended to reduce size and improve performance. The announcement did not publish ISO sizes, a percentage reduction, or benchmark results, so the gains are qualitative rather than quantified. PorteuX 1.7 is a historical release: the project’s releases page now lists version 2.8 as the latest.
What changed in PorteuX 1.7?
The PorteuX project account called 1.7 “a big release” and said its ISOs were significantly smaller than those of the previous version. Its release notes described several changes behind that goal:
- Kernel configuration: The project removed debug options and adjusted other kernel settings to reduce image size while aiming to preserve performance.
- Compiler and linker settings: It improved GCC and Clang flags, including link-time optimization where possible.
- Smaller base module: The project stripped base modules more thoroughly and described the resulting
001-coreas its smallest to that point. - Startup and service scripts: Several scripts were simplified with the stated aim of making startup faster.
- Clang-built packages: Selected packages were built with Clang; the project attributed smaller binaries to this choice.
- Other fixes: The release also included fixes involving scripts, desktop behavior, package handling, and installation instructions.
These are changes and intended effects described by the project, not published benchmark findings. The announcement contains no controlled performance measurements or before-and-after table of ISO sizes. Read the PorteuX 1.7 announcement.
How much smaller are the PorteuX 1.7 ISOs?
The project said they were “significantly smaller” than the previous version, but the 1.7 announcement does not state exact ISO sizes or the amount saved. There is no supported percentage reduction to quote, and the release notes do not provide a measured boot-time or runtime improvement. The size and performance claims should therefore be read as qualitative descriptions of the project’s changes, not as quantified results.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
What is PorteuX, and what does it support?
PorteuX is a free, Slackware-based Linux distribution inspired by Slax and Porteus. The project describes it as portable and modular, with an emphasis on small size and speed. Its current README lists Cinnamon, COSMIC, GNOME, KDE, LXDE, LXQt, MATE, and Xfce desktop spins; that current list does not establish which spins were available in version 1.7.
The README says PorteuX can run on older computers that support SSE4.2. It also says hardware acceleration is enabled for Intel and AMD graphics, while NVIDIA users need to obtain a driver through the project’s App Store. These are general project statements, not a complete hardware compatibility matrix for 1.7. See the PorteuX project README.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
How to run PorteuX from a USB drive
The project describes a copy-and-run setup rather than requiring a conventional installation. Its instructions support USB flash drives, and the installation guide says the workflow is intended not to erase existing personal data. Follow the project’s current instructions for the release you choose:
- Copy the ISO contents to the storage device you plan to use.
- Open the device’s
bootfolder and run the PorteuX installer for Linux or Windows, as appropriate. - Avoid ISO-installer applications that make the device read-only by default, as the project warns that they can interfere with its approach.
For storage options and detailed directions, consult the project’s official installation guide.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Choose storage and boot options for your use
| Option | Best suited to | Trade-off or project guidance |
|---|---|---|
| USB flash drive | Portable boot media that you can carry between computers. | Supported by the installation guide; the project recommends SSD or NVMe storage for better performance. |
| SSD or NVMe | A setup where storage performance is a priority. | The project recommends these over USB flash for better performance. |
| Copy to RAM | Running the system from RAM after boot. | Uses more RAM and can make boot slower, according to the installation guide. |
These are setup trade-offs stated in the project’s guidance, not results from comparative device testing. The project does not name or test a particular drive, brand, capacity, or speed class.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Is PorteuX 1.7 still the latest version?
No. Version 1.7 was announced on 19 October 2024, and the official GitHub releases page currently lists PorteuX 2.8 as the latest release. Check the official releases page before downloading: a reader setting up PorteuX now should compare the current release with the older 1.7 announcement rather than assume 1.7 is current.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
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