Kubuntu vs Xubuntu: how they differ
Kubuntu and Xubuntu 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: Kubuntu uses KDE Plasma; Xubuntu uses Xfce.
- 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 2 GB for Xubuntu 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 Xubuntu if
You are among the people who want Ubuntu's base with a light, traditional desktop.
Quick answers
- Which is easier for a beginner? Both suit beginners, so choose on look and feel.
- Which suits older hardware? Xubuntu 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 Xubuntu USB drive. Learn more: what is Kubuntu and what is Xubuntu.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Kubuntu or Xubuntu?
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 Xubuntu suits people who want Ubuntu's base with a light, traditional desktop.
Can I install both Kubuntu and Xubuntu?
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 Xubuntu?
Kubuntu uses long-term releases that stay supported for years; Xubuntu uses long-term releases that stay supported for years.