What is Xubuntu? Who it is for
Xubuntu 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.
Xubuntu at a glance
- Foundation: built on Ubuntu
- Desktop: Xfce
- Software tools: apt
- Release style: long-term releases that stay supported for years
- Installer: Ubuntu's graphical installer
Who Xubuntu suits
Xubuntu suits people who want Ubuntu's base with a light, traditional desktop.
Strengths
- Low memory and processor use, which helps older or modest computers feel quick.
- Changes arrive slowly and are tested first, so the system rarely surprises you.
- A gentle learning curve, with everyday tasks handled through graphical tools.
- 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.
- Stability means some software is not the very newest version.
- As a rough guide, about 2 GB of RAM is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Try Xubuntu from a USB drive
The easiest way to find out is to start it from a USB drive without changing your computer. See the Xubuntu 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 Xubuntu
- antiX vs Xubuntu
- Lubuntu vs Xubuntu
- Xubuntu vs Linux Lite
- Xubuntu vs MX Linux
- Xubuntu vs Puppy Linux
- Xubuntu vs Bodhi Linux
Installing software on Xubuntu
Xubuntu 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 Xubuntu good for beginners?
Yes. Xubuntu is one of the more beginner-friendly choices.
What desktop does Xubuntu use?
Xubuntu uses Xfce. To learn how desktops differ, read what GNOME, KDE, Xfce and Cinnamon are.
How much RAM does Xubuntu need?
As a rough guide, about 2 GB of RAM is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Is Xubuntu based on another distribution?
Xubuntu is built on Ubuntu.
How often is Xubuntu updated?
Xubuntu follows long-term releases that stay supported for years.
How can I try Xubuntu 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.