What is Lubuntu? Who it is for
Lubuntu is built on Ubuntu. It uses LXQt as its desktop and apt for software, and it follows long-term releases that stay supported for years.
Lubuntu at a glance
- Foundation: built on Ubuntu
- Desktop: LXQt
- Software tools: apt
- Release style: long-term releases that stay supported for years
- Installer: the Calamares installer
Who Lubuntu suits
Lubuntu suits people who want an official Ubuntu flavour that runs well on older computers.
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.
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 Lubuntu from a USB drive
The easiest way to find out is to start it from a USB drive without changing your computer. See the Lubuntu 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 Lubuntu
- antiX vs Lubuntu
- Lubuntu vs Xubuntu
- Lubuntu vs Linux Lite
- Lubuntu vs MX Linux
- Lubuntu vs Puppy Linux
- Lubuntu vs Bodhi Linux
Installing software on Lubuntu
Lubuntu 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 Lubuntu good for beginners?
Yes. Lubuntu is one of the more beginner-friendly choices.
What desktop does Lubuntu use?
Lubuntu uses LXQt. To learn how desktops differ, read what GNOME, KDE, Xfce and Cinnamon are.
How much RAM does Lubuntu need?
As a rough guide, about 2 GB of RAM is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Is Lubuntu based on another distribution?
Lubuntu is built on Ubuntu.
How often is Lubuntu updated?
Lubuntu follows long-term releases that stay supported for years.
How can I try Lubuntu 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.