Ubuntu vs Xubuntu
Ubuntu: Broad support, from your laptop to your server. Xubuntu: Ubuntu with the light, steady Xfce desktop. 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 hardwareXubuntuXubuntu 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 | Ubuntu | Xubuntu |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #1 | #40 |
| Latest version | 26.04.1 (Aug 31, 2026) | — |
| Based on | Debian | Ubuntu |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | GNOME | Xfce |
| Package management | APT · Snap | APT · Snap |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Beginner | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 2 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64, aarch64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Everyday use, Development, Servers | Everyday use, Older hardware |
Key differences
- Ubuntu is based on Debian, while Xubuntu is based on Ubuntu.
- Ubuntu ships GNOME; Xubuntu ships Xfce.
- We suggest about 4 GB of RAM for Ubuntu and 2 GB for Xubuntu.
Choose 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 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 profileUbuntu vs Xubuntu: FAQ
Is Ubuntu better than Xubuntu?
Neither is better for everyone. Ubuntu is the stronger pick for long-term stability; Xubuntu for older hardware.
Which uses less RAM, Ubuntu 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 Ubuntu based on Xubuntu?
No, the reverse: Xubuntu is based on Ubuntu.
Can I switch from Ubuntu 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.