Lubuntu vs Ubuntu Studio: how they differ
Lubuntu 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: Lubuntu uses LXQt; Ubuntu Studio uses 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 2 GB for Lubuntu against about 8 GB for Ubuntu Studio 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 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? Lubuntu is generally the easier first step.
- Which suits older hardware? Lubuntu 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 Lubuntu USB drive or the Ubuntu Studio USB drive. Learn more: what is Lubuntu and what is Ubuntu Studio.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Lubuntu or Ubuntu Studio?
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 Ubuntu Studio suits people making audio, video, graphics or photos who want the tools preinstalled.
Can I install both Lubuntu 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, Lubuntu or Ubuntu Studio?
Lubuntu uses long-term releases that stay supported for years; Ubuntu Studio uses long-term releases that stay supported for years.