Xubuntu vs MX Linux: how they differ
Xubuntu and MX Linux 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: Xubuntu is built on Ubuntu, while MX Linux is built on Debian.
- Desktop: Xubuntu uses Xfce; MX Linux uses Xfce, with KDE and Fluxbox editions.
- Software tools: both use apt, so install commands are the same.
- Releases: Xubuntu uses long-term releases that stay supported for years; MX Linux uses numbered releases on a fixed schedule.
- Memory: about 2 GB for Xubuntu against about 2 GB for MX Linux is a comfortable minimum for a desktop session.
Choose Xubuntu if
You are among the people who want Ubuntu's base with a light, traditional desktop.
Choose MX Linux if
You are among the people who want a stable, lightweight system with many handy built-in tools, even on older hardware.
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 Xubuntu USB drive or the MX Linux USB drive. Learn more: what is Xubuntu and what is MX Linux.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Xubuntu or MX Linux?
Neither is better for everyone. Choose by what you need: Xubuntu suits people who want Ubuntu's base with a light, traditional desktop, while MX Linux suits people who want a stable, lightweight system with many handy built-in tools, even on older hardware.
Can I install both Xubuntu and MX Linux?
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, Xubuntu or MX Linux?
Xubuntu uses long-term releases that stay supported for years; MX Linux uses numbered releases on a fixed schedule.