Kubuntu vs Ubuntu Studio: how they differ
Kubuntu and Ubuntu Studio 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: both follow long-term releases that stay supported for years.
- Memory: about 4 GB for Kubuntu against about 8 GB for Ubuntu Studio 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 Ubuntu Studio if
You are among the people making audio, video, graphics or photos who want the tools preinstalled.
Quick answers
- Which is easier for a beginner? Kubuntu is generally the easier first step.
- Which suits older hardware? Kubuntu asks for less 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 Ubuntu Studio USB drive. Learn more: what is Kubuntu and what is Ubuntu Studio.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Kubuntu or Ubuntu Studio?
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 Ubuntu Studio suits people making audio, video, graphics or photos who want the tools preinstalled.
Can I install both Kubuntu and Ubuntu Studio?
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 Ubuntu Studio?
Kubuntu uses long-term releases that stay supported for years; Ubuntu Studio uses long-term releases that stay supported for years.