Linux Mint vs Xubuntu
Linux Mint: A familiar desktop. A comfortable place to start. Xubuntu: Ubuntu with the light, steady Xfce desktop. 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 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 | Linux Mint | Xubuntu |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #2 | #40 |
| Latest version | 22.3 (Jan 11, 2026) | — |
| Based on | Ubuntu LTS | Ubuntu |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | Cinnamon, MATE, Xfce | Xfce |
| Package management | APT · Flatpak | APT · Snap |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Beginner | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 2 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2006 | 2006 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Everyday use, Older hardware, Development | Everyday use, Older hardware |
Key differences
- Linux Mint is based on Ubuntu LTS, while Xubuntu is based on Ubuntu.
- Linux Mint ships Cinnamon, MATE, Xfce; Xubuntu ships Xfce.
- Software comes from APT · Flatpak on Linux Mint and APT · Snap on Xubuntu.
- We suggest about 4 GB of RAM for Linux Mint and 2 GB for Xubuntu.
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 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 profileLinux Mint vs Xubuntu: FAQ
Is Linux Mint better than Xubuntu?
Neither is better for everyone. Linux Mint is the stronger pick for beginners; Xubuntu for older hardware.
Which uses less RAM, Linux Mint 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 Linux Mint based on Xubuntu?
No. Linux Mint is based on Ubuntu LTS; Xubuntu is based on Ubuntu.
Can I switch from Linux Mint 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.