Linux Mint Debian Edition vs Xubuntu
Linux Mint Debian Edition: Linux Mint’s desktop on a pure Debian base. Xubuntu: Ubuntu with the light, steady Xfce desktop. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersLinux Mint Debian EditionBoth are beginner-friendly; Linux Mint Debian Edition 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 Debian Edition | Xubuntu |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | Not ranked | #40 |
| Latest version | lmde7 (Oct 14, 2025) | — |
| Based on | Debian Stable | Ubuntu |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | Cinnamon | 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 | 2010 | 2006 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Everyday use, Older hardware | Everyday use, Older hardware |
Key differences
- Linux Mint Debian Edition is based on Debian Stable, while Xubuntu is based on Ubuntu.
- Linux Mint Debian Edition ships Cinnamon; Xubuntu ships Xfce.
- Software comes from APT · Flatpak on Linux Mint Debian Edition and APT · Snap on Xubuntu.
- We suggest about 4 GB of RAM for Linux Mint Debian Edition and 2 GB for Xubuntu.
Choose Linux Mint Debian Edition if…
- mint tools and Cinnamon on Debian
- no Snap packages
- familiar Windows-like layout
Only a Cinnamon edition
Full Linux Mint Debian Edition 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 Debian Edition vs Xubuntu: FAQ
Is Linux Mint Debian Edition better than Xubuntu?
Neither is better for everyone. Linux Mint Debian Edition is the stronger pick for beginners; Xubuntu for older hardware.
Which uses less RAM, Linux Mint Debian Edition 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 Debian Edition based on Xubuntu?
No. Linux Mint Debian Edition is based on Debian Stable; Xubuntu is based on Ubuntu.
Can I switch from Linux Mint Debian Edition 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.