Endless OS vs Ubuntu
Endless OS: An offline-friendly atomic desktop for learning. Ubuntu: Broad support, from your laptop to your server. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- GamingEndless OSEndless OS gets newer drivers and kernels faster.
- Older hardwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Latest softwareEndless OSEndless OS uses a atomic model; Ubuntu is stable.
- Long-term stabilityUbuntuUbuntu changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | Endless OS | Ubuntu |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #51 | #1 |
| Latest version | — | 26.04.1 (Aug 31, 2026) |
| Based on | Debian | Debian |
| Release model | Atomic | Stable |
| Desktop | GNOME-based | GNOME |
| Package management | Flatpak · OSTree | 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 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Education, Everyday use, Immutable systems | Everyday use, Development, Servers |
Key differences
- Endless OS follows a atomic release model; Ubuntu is stable.
- Endless OS ships GNOME-based; Ubuntu ships GNOME.
- Software comes from Flatpak · OSTree on Endless OS and APT · Snap on Ubuntu.
Choose Endless OS if…
- works well offline
- hard-to-break atomic base
- educational content built in
Limited traditional package installation
Full Endless OS 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 profileEndless OS vs Ubuntu: FAQ
Is Endless OS better than Ubuntu?
Neither is better for everyone. Endless OS is the stronger pick for gaming, latest software; Ubuntu for long-term stability.
Which uses less RAM, Endless OS or Ubuntu?
Both need about 4 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop. The desktop environment affects memory use more than the distribution.
Is Endless OS based on Ubuntu?
No. Endless OS is based on Debian; Ubuntu is based on Debian.
Can I switch from Endless OS 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.