Pop!_OS vs Ubuntu
Pop!_OS: A developer-friendly desktop with built-in tiling. 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.
- 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 stabilityUbuntuUbuntu changes less between upgrades.
Specs compared
| Feature | Pop!_OS | Ubuntu |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #13 | #1 |
| Latest version | 24.04 (Dec 11, 2025) | 26.04.1 (Aug 31, 2026) |
| Based on | Ubuntu LTS | Debian |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | COSMIC | GNOME |
| Package management | APT · Flatpak | APT · Snap |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Beginner | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64, aarch64 |
| First released | 2017 | 2004 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Development, Gaming, Everyday use | Everyday use, Development, Servers |
Key differences
- Pop!_OS is based on Ubuntu LTS, while Ubuntu is based on Debian.
- Pop!_OS ships COSMIC; Ubuntu ships GNOME.
- Software comes from APT · Flatpak on Pop!_OS and APT · Snap on Ubuntu.
Choose 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 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 profilePop!_OS vs Ubuntu: FAQ
Is Pop!_OS better than Ubuntu?
Neither is better for everyone. Pop!_OS is the stronger pick for gaming; Ubuntu for long-term stability.
Which uses less RAM, Pop!_OS or Ubuntu?
Both need about 4 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop. The desktop environment affects memory use more than the distribution.
Is Pop!_OS based on Ubuntu?
Yes. Pop!_OS is based on Ubuntu LTS.
Can I switch from Pop!_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.