Xubuntu vs Ubuntu Budgie: how they differ
Xubuntu and Ubuntu Budgie 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: both are built on Ubuntu, so much of the help, software and troubleshooting advice for one applies to the other.
- Desktop: Xubuntu uses Xfce; Ubuntu Budgie uses Budgie.
- Software tools: both use apt, so install commands are the same.
- Releases: both follow long-term releases that stay supported for years.
- Memory: about 2 GB for Xubuntu against about 4 GB for Ubuntu Budgie 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 Ubuntu Budgie if
You are among the people who like a simple, modern and tidy desktop on Ubuntu's base.
Quick answers
- Which is easier for a beginner? Both suit beginners, so choose on look and feel.
- Which suits older hardware? Xubuntu asks for less 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 Ubuntu Budgie USB drive. Learn more: what is Xubuntu and what is Ubuntu Budgie.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Xubuntu or Ubuntu Budgie?
Neither is better for everyone. Choose by what you need: Xubuntu suits people who want Ubuntu's base with a light, traditional desktop, while Ubuntu Budgie suits people who like a simple, modern and tidy desktop on Ubuntu's base.
Can I install both Xubuntu and Ubuntu Budgie?
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 Ubuntu Budgie?
Xubuntu uses long-term releases that stay supported for years; Ubuntu Budgie uses long-term releases that stay supported for years.