Lubuntu vs MX Linux: how they differ
Lubuntu and MX Linux 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: Lubuntu is built on Ubuntu, while MX Linux is built on Debian.
- Desktop: Lubuntu uses LXQt; MX Linux uses Xfce, with KDE and Fluxbox editions.
- Software tools: both use apt, so install commands are the same.
- Releases: Lubuntu uses long-term releases that stay supported for years; MX Linux uses numbered releases on a fixed schedule.
- Memory: about 2 GB for Lubuntu against about 2 GB for MX Linux is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Choose Lubuntu if
You are among the people who want an official Ubuntu flavour that runs well on older computers.
Choose MX Linux if
You are among the people who want a stable, lightweight system with many handy built-in tools, even on older hardware.
Quick answers
- Which is easier for a beginner? Both suit beginners, so choose on look and feel.
- 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 Lubuntu USB drive or the MX Linux USB drive. Learn more: what is Lubuntu and what is MX Linux.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Lubuntu or MX Linux?
Neither is better for everyone. Choose by what you need: Lubuntu suits people who want an official Ubuntu flavour that runs well on older computers, while MX Linux suits people who want a stable, lightweight system with many handy built-in tools, even on older hardware.
Can I install both Lubuntu and MX Linux?
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, Lubuntu or MX Linux?
Lubuntu uses long-term releases that stay supported for years; MX Linux uses numbered releases on a fixed schedule.