Peppermint OS vs Ubuntu
Peppermint OS: A light Debian-based desktop with minimal defaults. Ubuntu: Broad support, from your laptop to your server. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- GamingTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Older hardwarePeppermint OSPeppermint OS needs about 2 GB of RAM versus 4 GB.
- Latest softwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Long-term stabilityUbuntuUbuntu changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | Peppermint OS | Ubuntu |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #45 | #1 |
| Latest version | — | 26.04.1 (Aug 31, 2026) |
| Based on | Debian Stable | Debian |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | Xfce | GNOME |
| Package management | APT · Flatpak | APT · Snap |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Beginner | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 2 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64, aarch64 |
| First released | 2010 | 2004 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Older hardware, Everyday use | Everyday use, Development, Servers |
Key differences
- Peppermint OS is based on Debian Stable, while Ubuntu is based on Debian.
- Peppermint OS ships Xfce; Ubuntu ships GNOME.
- Software comes from APT · Flatpak on Peppermint OS and APT · Snap on Ubuntu.
- We suggest about 2 GB of RAM for Peppermint OS and 4 GB for Ubuntu.
Choose Peppermint OS if…
- lean install with Debian underneath
- devuan variant without systemd
- simple welcome tools
Community-maintained with a small team
Full Peppermint OS 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 profilePeppermint OS vs Ubuntu: FAQ
Is Peppermint OS better than Ubuntu?
Neither is better for everyone. Peppermint OS is the stronger pick for older hardware; Ubuntu for long-term stability.
Which uses less RAM, Peppermint OS or Ubuntu?
Peppermint OS is lighter: we suggest about 2 GB versus 4 GB. The desktop you choose affects memory use more than the distribution itself.
Is Peppermint OS based on Ubuntu?
No. Peppermint OS is based on Debian Stable; Ubuntu is based on Debian.
Can I switch from Peppermint OS 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.