What is KDE neon? Who it is for
KDE neon is built on Ubuntu. It uses KDE Plasma as its desktop and apt for software, and it follows a curated model where updates are released in tested batches.
KDE neon at a glance
- Foundation: built on Ubuntu
- Desktop: KDE Plasma
- Software tools: apt
- Release style: a curated model where updates are released in tested batches
- Installer: the Calamares installer
Who KDE neon suits
KDE neon suits people who want the newest KDE Plasma on a stable Ubuntu LTS base.
Strengths
- The KDE Plasma desktop, with a great deal of customisation built in.
- Good tooling for programming, with current compilers, languages and containers available.
Things to consider
- As a rough guide, about 4 GB of RAM is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Try KDE neon from a USB drive
The easiest way to find out is to start it from a USB drive without changing your computer. See the KDE neon bootable USB drive, then follow our install guide when you are ready. New to this? Read how to try Linux without installing it and how to boot from a USB drive.
Compare KDE neon
Installing software on KDE neon
KDE neon uses apt. These commands search for a program and install it (replace name with the program):
apt search name sudo apt install name
Most desktop systems also have a graphical software store. See how to install software on Linux.
Frequently asked questions
Is KDE neon good for beginners?
It can be used by beginners, but KDE neon is aimed more at people who want the newest KDE Plasma on a stable Ubuntu LTS base. If you are brand new, a beginner-friendly distribution such as Linux Mint or Ubuntu is usually an easier first step.
What desktop does KDE neon use?
KDE neon uses KDE Plasma. To learn how desktops differ, read what GNOME, KDE, Xfce and Cinnamon are.
How much RAM does KDE neon need?
As a rough guide, about 4 GB of RAM is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Is KDE neon based on another distribution?
KDE neon is built on Ubuntu.
How often is KDE neon updated?
KDE neon follows a curated model where updates are released in tested batches.
How can I try KDE neon without installing it?
Write it to a USB drive, restart, choose the drive from the boot menu and pick the live or try option. Nothing on your internal disk changes unless you choose to install.