elementary OS vs Xubuntu
elementary OS: A calm, consistent desktop with a design focus. Xubuntu: Ubuntu with the light, steady Xfce desktop. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- Beginnerselementary OSBoth are beginner-friendly; elementary OS has a macOS-like layout.
- GamingTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Older hardwareXubuntuXubuntu 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 | elementary OS | Xubuntu |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #18 | #40 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Ubuntu LTS | Ubuntu |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | Pantheon | Xfce |
| Package management | APT · Flatpak (AppCenter) | APT · Snap |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Beginner | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 2 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2011 | 2006 |
| Price | Free, pay what you want | Free |
| Good for | Everyday use | Everyday use, Older hardware |
Key differences
- elementary OS is based on Ubuntu LTS, while Xubuntu is based on Ubuntu.
- elementary OS ships Pantheon; Xubuntu ships Xfce.
- Software comes from APT · Flatpak (AppCenter) on elementary OS and APT · Snap on Xubuntu.
- We suggest about 4 GB of RAM for elementary OS and 2 GB for Xubuntu.
Choose elementary OS if…
- cohesive design across desktop and apps
- curated AppCenter with sandboxed Flatpaks
- clear privacy and permission controls
Fewer customization options than KDE or Xfce
Full elementary OS profileChoose Xubuntu if…
- lighter than Ubuntu’s default desktop
- ubuntu compatibility and documentation
- conservative, predictable interface
Flavour LTS support is shorter than Ubuntu’s
Full Xubuntu profileelementary OS vs Xubuntu: FAQ
Is elementary OS better than Xubuntu?
Neither is better for everyone. elementary OS is the stronger pick for beginners; Xubuntu for older hardware.
Which uses less RAM, elementary OS or Xubuntu?
Xubuntu is lighter: we suggest about 2 GB versus 4 GB. The desktop you choose affects memory use more than the distribution itself.
Is elementary OS based on Xubuntu?
No. elementary OS is based on Ubuntu LTS; Xubuntu is based on Ubuntu.
Can I switch from elementary OS to Xubuntu 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.