Ubuntu vs Linux Mint: which should you choose?
Ubuntu and Linux Mint are two of the most popular desktop Linux systems. Mint is built on Ubuntu, so they share much underneath. The differences are mainly in the desktop and philosophy.
Quick comparison
- Desktop: Mint's Cinnamon desktop looks like a classic Windows layout. Ubuntu uses a GNOME desktop with a dock on the side.
- Software: Both have a graphical software store. Ubuntu leans on Snap packages; Mint is more cautious about them.
- Support: Ubuntu LTS releases get long support and wide commercial backing. Mint LTS releases are also supported for years.
- Help online: Ubuntu has the larger community, and most Ubuntu answers also work on Mint.
Which suits you
- Choose Mint if you want a familiar, traditional desktop.
- Choose Ubuntu if you want the broadest support and a modern look.
You can try either in live mode. See {lk('800016537860','Ubuntu')} and {lk('800016421272','Linux Mint')}, or read choosing a Linux distribution.