Ubuntu vs Zorin OS: how they differ
Ubuntu and Zorin OS 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 Zorin OS is built on Ubuntu.
- Desktop: Ubuntu uses GNOME; Zorin OS uses a Windows-style GNOME desktop.
- Software tools: Ubuntu uses apt and Snap; Zorin OS 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 4 GB for Zorin OS 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 Zorin OS if
You are among the people switching from Windows who want a polished layout from day one.
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 Ubuntu USB drive or the Zorin OS USB drive. Learn more: what is Ubuntu and what is Zorin OS.
Software commands compared
- Ubuntu:
sudo apt install name - Zorin OS:
sudo apt install name
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Ubuntu or Zorin OS?
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 Zorin OS suits people switching from Windows who want a polished layout from day one.
Can I install both Ubuntu and Zorin OS?
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 Zorin OS?
Ubuntu uses long-term releases that stay supported for years; Zorin OS uses long-term releases that stay supported for years.