Ubuntu vs Xubuntu: how they differ
Ubuntu 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: Ubuntu is built on Debian, while Xubuntu is built on Ubuntu.
- Desktop: Ubuntu uses GNOME; Xubuntu uses Xfce.
- Software tools: Ubuntu uses apt and Snap; Xubuntu uses apt, so the commands you learn for one do not carry over.
- Releases: both follow long-term releases that stay supported for years.
- Memory: about 4 GB for Ubuntu against about 2 GB for Xubuntu is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Choose Ubuntu if
You are among the people who want the most widely supported desktop, with a new release every six months and a long-term release every two years.
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 Ubuntu USB drive or the Xubuntu USB drive. Learn more: what is Ubuntu and what is Xubuntu.
Software commands compared
- Ubuntu:
sudo apt install name - Xubuntu:
sudo apt install name
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Ubuntu or Xubuntu?
Neither is better for everyone. Choose by what you need: Ubuntu suits people who want the most widely supported desktop, with a new release every six months and a long-term release every two years, while Xubuntu suits people who want Ubuntu's base with a light, traditional desktop.
Can I install both Ubuntu 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, Ubuntu or Xubuntu?
Ubuntu uses long-term releases that stay supported for years; Xubuntu uses long-term releases that stay supported for years.