Slackware vs Ubuntu
Slackware: The oldest maintained distribution, simple by design. Ubuntu: Broad support, from your laptop to your server. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersUbuntuUbuntu is rated beginner; Slackware is advanced.
- GamingTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Older hardwareSlackwareSlackware 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 | Slackware | Ubuntu |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #24 | #1 |
| Latest version | 15.0 (Feb 3, 2022) | 26.04.1 (Aug 31, 2026) |
| Based on | Independent | Debian |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, Xfce | GNOME |
| Package management | pkgtool · slackpkg | APT · Snap |
| Init system | BSD-style init | systemd |
| Experience level | Advanced | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 2 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64, i686 | x86_64, aarch64 |
| First released | 1993 | 2004 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Servers, Development | Everyday use, Development, Servers |
Key differences
- Slackware is based on Independent, while Ubuntu is based on Debian.
- Slackware ships KDE Plasma, Xfce; Ubuntu ships GNOME.
- Software comes from pkgtool · slackpkg on Slackware and APT · Snap on Ubuntu.
- Slackware uses BSD-style init as its init system; Ubuntu uses systemd.
- We suggest about 2 GB of RAM for Slackware and 4 GB for Ubuntu.
- Slackware is best for advanced users; Ubuntu for beginner users.
Choose Slackware if…
- simple, transparent system design
- very long project history
- minimal distribution-specific tooling
No automatic dependency resolution
Full Slackware 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 profileSlackware vs Ubuntu: FAQ
Is Slackware better than Ubuntu?
Neither is better for everyone. Slackware is the stronger pick for older hardware; Ubuntu for beginners.
Which uses less RAM, Slackware or Ubuntu?
Slackware is lighter: we suggest about 2 GB versus 4 GB. The desktop you choose affects memory use more than the distribution itself.
Is Slackware based on Ubuntu?
No. Slackware is based on Independent; Ubuntu is based on Debian.
Can I switch from Slackware 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.