Fedora Asahi Remix vs Ubuntu
Fedora Asahi Remix: Linux on Apple Silicon Macs. 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; Fedora Asahi Remix is intermediate.
- GamingTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Older hardwareUbuntuUbuntu needs about 4 GB of RAM versus 8 GB.
- Latest softwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Long-term stabilityUbuntuUbuntu changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | Fedora Asahi Remix | Ubuntu |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #28 | #1 |
| Latest version | — | 26.04.1 (Aug 31, 2026) |
| Based on | Fedora | Debian |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, GNOME | GNOME |
| Package management | DNF · Flatpak | APT · Snap |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 8 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | aarch64 | x86_64, aarch64 |
| First released | 2023 | 2004 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Development, Everyday use | Everyday use, Development, Servers |
Key differences
- Fedora Asahi Remix is based on Fedora, while Ubuntu is based on Debian.
- Fedora Asahi Remix ships KDE Plasma, GNOME; Ubuntu ships GNOME.
- Software comes from DNF · Flatpak on Fedora Asahi Remix and APT · Snap on Ubuntu.
- We suggest about 8 GB of RAM for Fedora Asahi Remix and 4 GB for Ubuntu.
- Fedora Asahi Remix is best for intermediate users; Ubuntu for beginner users.
Choose Fedora Asahi Remix if…
- runs natively on Apple Silicon
- upstream-first GPU driver work
- installs alongside macOS
Newer Apple chips may not be supported
Full Fedora Asahi Remix 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 profileFedora Asahi Remix vs Ubuntu: FAQ
Is Fedora Asahi Remix better than Ubuntu?
Neither is better for everyone. Fedora Asahi Remix is the stronger pick for a different set of needs; Ubuntu for beginners, older hardware, long-term stability.
Which uses less RAM, Fedora Asahi Remix or Ubuntu?
Ubuntu is lighter: we suggest about 4 GB versus 8 GB. The desktop you choose affects memory use more than the distribution itself.
Is Fedora Asahi Remix based on Ubuntu?
No. Fedora Asahi Remix is based on Fedora; Ubuntu is based on Debian.
Can I switch from Fedora Asahi Remix 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.