What is Linux Lite? Who it is for
Linux Lite is built on Ubuntu. It uses Xfce as its desktop and apt for software, and it follows long-term releases that stay supported for years.
Linux Lite at a glance
- Foundation: built on Ubuntu
- Desktop: Xfce
- Software tools: apt
- Release style: long-term releases that stay supported for years
- Installer: the Linux Lite installer
Who Linux Lite suits
Linux Lite suits people moving from Windows who want a simple, light system for modest hardware.
Strengths
- Low memory and processor use, which helps older or modest computers feel quick.
- A gentle learning curve, with everyday tasks handled through graphical tools.
- A layout Windows users recognise quickly, with a taskbar, a start-style menu and familiar window controls.
- The Xfce desktop, which is light, traditional and easy to tweak.
Things to consider
- The lighter design means fewer built-in features and a plainer look than the big desktops.
- As a rough guide, about 2 GB of RAM is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Try Linux Lite from a USB drive
The easiest way to find out is to start it from a USB drive without changing your computer. See the Linux Lite 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 Linux Lite
- antiX vs Linux Lite
- Lubuntu vs Linux Lite
- Xubuntu vs Linux Lite
- Linux Lite vs MX Linux
- Linux Lite vs Puppy Linux
- Linux Lite vs Bodhi Linux
Installing software on Linux Lite
Linux Lite 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 Linux Lite good for beginners?
Yes. Linux Lite is one of the more beginner-friendly choices.
What desktop does Linux Lite use?
Linux Lite uses Xfce. To learn how desktops differ, read what GNOME, KDE, Xfce and Cinnamon are.
How much RAM does Linux Lite need?
As a rough guide, about 2 GB of RAM is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Is Linux Lite based on another distribution?
Linux Lite is built on Ubuntu.
How often is Linux Lite updated?
Linux Lite follows long-term releases that stay supported for years.
How can I try Linux Lite 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.