CentOS Stream vs Ubuntu
CentOS Stream: The continuously delivered upstream of RHEL. Ubuntu: Broad support, from your laptop to your server. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersUbuntuUbuntu is rated beginner; CentOS Stream is intermediate.
- GamingTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Older hardwareCentOS StreamCentOS Stream needs about 2 GB of RAM versus 4 GB.
- Latest softwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Long-term stabilityTieBoth are a similar fit here.
Specs compared
| Feature | CentOS Stream | Ubuntu |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #39 | #1 |
| Latest version | 10 (Dec 12, 2024) | 26.04.1 (Aug 31, 2026) |
| Based on | RHEL upstream | Debian |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | GNOME (optional) | GNOME |
| Package management | DNF · RPM | APT · Snap |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 2 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64, aarch64, ppc64le, s390x | x86_64, aarch64 |
| First released | 2019 | 2004 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Servers, Development | Everyday use, Development, Servers |
Key differences
- CentOS Stream is based on RHEL upstream, while Ubuntu is based on Debian.
- CentOS Stream ships GNOME (optional); Ubuntu ships GNOME.
- Software comes from DNF · RPM on CentOS Stream and APT · Snap on Ubuntu.
- We suggest about 2 GB of RAM for CentOS Stream and 4 GB for Ubuntu.
- CentOS Stream is best for intermediate users; Ubuntu for beginner users.
Choose CentOS Stream if…
- preview of upcoming RHEL changes
- open contribution path to RHEL
- enterprise tooling
Updates arrive before RHEL’s testing is complete
Full CentOS Stream profileChoose Ubuntu if…
- long-term support release options
- extensive documentation and vendor support
- desktop and server editions
Snap is integrated into the default experience
Full Ubuntu profileCentOS Stream vs Ubuntu: FAQ
Is CentOS Stream better than Ubuntu?
Neither is better for everyone. CentOS Stream is the stronger pick for older hardware; Ubuntu for beginners.
Which uses less RAM, CentOS Stream or Ubuntu?
CentOS Stream is lighter: we suggest about 2 GB versus 4 GB. The desktop you choose affects memory use more than the distribution itself.
Is CentOS Stream based on Ubuntu?
No. CentOS Stream is based on RHEL upstream; Ubuntu is based on Debian.
Can I switch from CentOS Stream to Ubuntu without losing files?
Back up your home folder first. If /home is on a separate partition you can reinstall without formatting it, but a clean install with restored backups is safest.