deepin vs Ubuntu
deepin: A polished desktop environment with its own apps. Ubuntu: Broad support, from your laptop to your server. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersdeepinBoth are beginner-friendly; deepin has a macOS-like layout.
- GamingTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Older hardwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Latest softwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Long-term stabilityUbuntuUbuntu changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | deepin | Ubuntu |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #41 | #1 |
| Latest version | — | 26.04.1 (Aug 31, 2026) |
| Based on | Independent (formerly Debian-based) | Debian |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | Deepin Desktop (DDE) | GNOME |
| Package management | APT · deepin App Store | APT · Snap |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Beginner | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64, aarch64 |
| First released | 2004 | 2004 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Everyday use | Everyday use, Development, Servers |
Key differences
- deepin is based on Independent (formerly Debian-based), while Ubuntu is based on Debian.
- deepin ships Deepin Desktop (DDE); Ubuntu ships GNOME.
- Software comes from APT · deepin App Store on deepin and APT · Snap on Ubuntu.
Choose deepin if…
- visually refined, integrated desktop
- in-house applications and control center
- simple graphical installer
Desktop is heavier than Xfce or LXQt
Full deepin 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 profiledeepin vs Ubuntu: FAQ
Is deepin better than Ubuntu?
Neither is better for everyone. deepin is the stronger pick for beginners; Ubuntu for long-term stability.
Which uses less RAM, deepin or Ubuntu?
Both need about 4 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop. The desktop environment affects memory use more than the distribution.
Is deepin based on Ubuntu?
No. deepin is based on Independent (formerly Debian-based); Ubuntu is based on Debian.
Can I switch from deepin 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.