Linux Mint vs MX Linux
Linux Mint: A familiar desktop. A comfortable place to start. MX Linux: Debian Stable with a toolbox of helpful utilities. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersLinux MintBoth are beginner-friendly; Linux Mint has a Windows-like layout.
- GamingTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Older hardwareMX LinuxMX Linux 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 | Linux Mint | MX Linux |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #2 | #16 |
| Latest version | 22.3 (Jan 11, 2026) | 25.3 (Sep 20, 2026) |
| Based on | Ubuntu LTS | Debian Stable |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | Cinnamon, MATE, Xfce | Xfce, KDE Plasma, Fluxbox |
| Package management | APT · Flatpak | APT · MX Package Installer · Flatpak |
| Init system | systemd | sysVinit (systemd optional) |
| Experience level | Beginner | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 2 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64, i686 |
| First released | 2006 | 2014 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Everyday use, Older hardware, Development | Everyday use, Older hardware |
Key differences
- Linux Mint is based on Ubuntu LTS, while MX Linux is based on Debian Stable.
- Linux Mint ships Cinnamon, MATE, Xfce; MX Linux ships Xfce, KDE Plasma, Fluxbox.
- Software comes from APT · Flatpak on Linux Mint and APT · MX Package Installer · Flatpak on MX Linux.
- Linux Mint uses systemd as its init system; MX Linux uses sysVinit (systemd optional).
- We suggest about 4 GB of RAM for Linux Mint and 2 GB for MX Linux.
Choose Linux Mint if…
- familiar desktop layout with useful defaults
- graphical software and update managers
- choose Xfce for a lighter desktop
Packages can be older than on rolling distributions
Full Linux Mint profileChoose MX Linux if…
- mX Tools cover common admin tasks graphically
- snapshot tool can turn your install into a live ISO
- runs well on older and 32-bit machines
Debian Stable base means older package versions
Full MX Linux profileLinux Mint vs MX Linux: FAQ
Is Linux Mint better than MX Linux?
Neither is better for everyone. Linux Mint is the stronger pick for beginners; MX Linux for older hardware.
Which uses less RAM, Linux Mint or MX Linux?
MX Linux is lighter: we suggest about 2 GB versus 4 GB. The desktop you choose affects memory use more than the distribution itself.
Is Linux Mint based on MX Linux?
No. Linux Mint is based on Ubuntu LTS; MX Linux is based on Debian Stable.
Can I switch from Linux Mint to MX Linux 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.