Xubuntu vs Zorin OS
Xubuntu: Ubuntu with the light, steady Xfce desktop. Zorin OS: A gentle switch from the desktop you know. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersZorin OSBoth are beginner-friendly; Zorin OS 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 | Xubuntu | Zorin OS |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #40 | #7 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Ubuntu | Ubuntu LTS |
| Release model | Stable | Stable |
| Desktop | Xfce | GNOME-based (Xfce in Lite) |
| Package management | APT · Snap | APT · Flatpak · Snap |
| Init system | systemd | systemd |
| Experience level | Beginner | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 2 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Everyday use, Older hardware | Everyday use, Older hardware |
Key differences
- Xubuntu is based on Ubuntu, while Zorin OS is based on Ubuntu LTS.
- Xubuntu ships Xfce; Zorin OS ships GNOME-based (Xfce in Lite).
- Software comes from APT · Snap on Xubuntu and APT · Flatpak · Snap on Zorin OS.
- We suggest about 2 GB of RAM for Xubuntu and 4 GB for Zorin OS.
Choose 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 profileChoose Zorin OS if…
- familiar desktop layouts
- graphical tools for common tasks
- ubuntu-compatible software ecosystem
Some layouts and bundles require a paid edition
Full Zorin OS profileXubuntu vs Zorin OS: FAQ
Is Xubuntu better than Zorin OS?
Neither is better for everyone. Xubuntu is the stronger pick for older hardware; Zorin OS for beginners.
Which uses less RAM, Xubuntu or Zorin OS?
Xubuntu is lighter: we suggest about 2 GB versus 4 GB. The desktop you choose affects memory use more than the distribution itself.
Is Xubuntu based on Zorin OS?
No. Xubuntu is based on Ubuntu; Zorin OS is based on Ubuntu LTS.
Can I switch from Xubuntu to Zorin OS 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.