Kubuntu
Ubuntu with the KDE Plasma desktop.
What is Kubuntu?
Kubuntu is an official Ubuntu flavour that replaces GNOME with KDE Plasma. You get Ubuntu’s package base, hardware support, and documentation with a desktop that uses a familiar taskbar and start menu and offers deep customization. Flavour LTS releases have a shorter support period than Ubuntu’s main LTS edition, so check the release notes.
Who is Kubuntu for?
Kubuntu fits best for everyday use and development. Where it ranks in our lists:
- #3 of 6: Linux distros that look like Windows
- #7 of 22: best Linux distros for beginners
- #9 of 37: best Linux distros for 4 GB of RAM
- #10 of 29: best Linux distros for programming and development
Pros
- KDE Plasma on a widely supported base
- Windows-like layout by default
- Compatible with most Ubuntu guides
Cons
- Flavour LTS support is shorter than Ubuntu’s
- Plasma versions track the Ubuntu release rather than KDE’s latest
Kubuntu system requirements
For a comfortable desktop with a modern web browser, plan for about 4 GB of RAM. Kubuntu is available for x86_64. Leave at least 25 GB of storage for the system and applications. These figures are editorial guidance; check the official documentation for minimums.
Try Kubuntu before you install
Write the image to a USB stick and boot it as a live session to test Wi-Fi, graphics, sound, and suspend on your own computer. A browser trial on DistroSea shows the desktop, but cannot verify your hardware.
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Kubuntu: common questions
What is Kubuntu based on?
Kubuntu is based on Ubuntu. It uses APT · Snap for software and systemd as its init system.
Is Kubuntu good for beginners?
Yes. Kubuntu is one of the more approachable distributions: kde plasma on a widely supported base.
How much RAM does Kubuntu need?
We suggest about 4 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop experience with a modern browser. This is editorial guidance, not the project’s official minimum, which can be lower. It runs on x86_64.
What desktop does Kubuntu use?
Kubuntu offers KDE Plasma.
Is Kubuntu a rolling release?
No. Kubuntu uses fixed releases; you upgrade to a new version periodically.
Is Kubuntu free?
Yes, Kubuntu is free to download and use.