Kubuntu vs Pop!_OS
Kubuntu: Ubuntu with the KDE Plasma desktop. Pop!_OS: A developer-friendly desktop with built-in tiling. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersKubuntuBoth are beginner-friendly; Kubuntu has a Windows-like layout.
- GamingPop!_OSPop!_OS ships gaming-oriented defaults or current drivers.
- Older hardwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Latest softwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Long-term stabilityTieBoth are a similar fit here.
Specs compared
| Feature | Kubuntu | Pop!_OS |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #14 | #13 |
| Latest version | — | 24.04 (Dec 11, 2025) |
| Based on | Ubuntu | Ubuntu LTS |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma | COSMIC |
| Package management | APT · Snap | APT · Flatpak |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Beginner | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2005 | 2017 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Everyday use, Development | Development, Gaming, Everyday use |
Key differences
- Kubuntu is based on Ubuntu, while Pop!_OS is based on Ubuntu LTS.
- Kubuntu ships KDE Plasma; Pop!_OS ships COSMIC.
- Software comes from APT · Snap on Kubuntu and APT · Flatpak on Pop!_OS.
Choose Kubuntu if…
- kDE Plasma on a widely supported base
- windows-like layout by default
- compatible with most Ubuntu guides
Flavour LTS support is shorter than Ubuntu’s
Full Kubuntu profileChoose Pop!_OS if…
- nVIDIA image with the proprietary driver preinstalled
- optional auto-tiling built into the desktop
- tested on System76 hardware
COSMIC is young; expect rough edges and missing extensions
Full Pop!_OS profileKubuntu vs Pop!_OS: FAQ
Is Kubuntu better than Pop!_OS?
Neither is better for everyone. Kubuntu is the stronger pick for beginners; Pop!_OS for gaming.
Which uses less RAM, Kubuntu or Pop!_OS?
Both need about 4 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop. The desktop environment affects memory use more than the distribution.
Is Kubuntu based on Pop!_OS?
No. Kubuntu is based on Ubuntu; Pop!_OS is based on Ubuntu LTS.
Can I switch from Kubuntu to Pop!_OS 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.