Xubuntu vs Ubuntu Studio: how they differ
Xubuntu and Ubuntu Studio 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 Studio uses KDE Plasma.
- 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 8 GB for Ubuntu Studio 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 Studio if
You are among the people making audio, video, graphics or photos who want the tools preinstalled.
Quick answers
- Which is easier for a beginner? Xubuntu is generally the easier first step.
- 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 Studio USB drive. Learn more: what is Xubuntu and what is Ubuntu Studio.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Xubuntu or Ubuntu Studio?
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 Studio suits people making audio, video, graphics or photos who want the tools preinstalled.
Can I install both Xubuntu and Ubuntu Studio?
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 Studio?
Xubuntu uses long-term releases that stay supported for years; Ubuntu Studio uses long-term releases that stay supported for years.