Kubuntu vs KDE neon: how they differ
Kubuntu and KDE neon are often considered side by side. This page compares what each one is built on, how it looks, how software is installed, how updates arrive and what hardware it needs.
Key differences
- Foundation: both are built on Ubuntu, so much of the help, software and troubleshooting advice for one applies to the other.
- Desktop: both use KDE Plasma.
- Software tools: both use apt, so install commands are the same.
- Releases: Kubuntu uses long-term releases that stay supported for years; KDE neon uses a curated model where updates are released in tested batches.
- Memory: about 4 GB for Kubuntu against about 4 GB for KDE neon is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Choose Kubuntu if
You are among the people who want Ubuntu's base with KDE Plasma and plenty of customisation.
Choose KDE neon if
You are among the people who want the newest KDE Plasma on a stable Ubuntu LTS base.
Quick answers
- Which is easier for a beginner? Kubuntu is generally the easier first step.
- Which suits older hardware? They ask for a similar amount of memory.
- Can I try both? Yes. Start each from a live USB drive without installing, or put both on one drive with Ventoy.
Browse the Kubuntu USB drive or the KDE neon USB drive. Learn more: what is Kubuntu and what is KDE neon.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Kubuntu or KDE neon?
Neither is better for everyone. Choose by what you need: Kubuntu suits people who want Ubuntu's base with KDE Plasma and plenty of customisation, while KDE neon suits people who want the newest KDE Plasma on a stable Ubuntu LTS base.
Can I install both Kubuntu and KDE neon?
Yes. Install each one on its own partition, or try both from a live USB drive first. See dual booting for the idea, which also works between two Linux systems.
Which gets updates faster, Kubuntu or KDE neon?
Kubuntu uses long-term releases that stay supported for years; KDE neon uses a curated model where updates are released in tested batches.