Lubuntu
A lightweight Ubuntu flavour with LXQt.
What is Lubuntu?
Lubuntu is the official Ubuntu flavour using the LXQt desktop. It aims to be fast and lightweight while staying compatible with the Ubuntu software ecosystem. It is a sensible choice for low-memory machines that still need a modern browser, which will often be the heaviest application you run.
Who is Lubuntu for?
Lubuntu fits best for older hardware and everyday use. Where it ranks in our lists:
- #6 of 15: best Linux distros for 2 GB of RAM
- #8 of 18: best lightweight Linux distros for old laptops
- #12 of 22: best Linux distros for beginners
- #17 of 37: best Linux distros for 4 GB of RAM
Pros
- Light LXQt desktop
- Ubuntu package base
- Simple, familiar layout
Cons
- 64-bit only in current releases
- Modern web browsers still need several GB of memory
Lubuntu system requirements
For a comfortable desktop with a modern web browser, plan for about 2 GB of RAM, and less is workable with a light desktop. Lubuntu 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 Lubuntu 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.
Lubuntu news
Compare Lubuntu with…
Best Lubuntu alternatives
Xubuntu
Ubuntu with the light, steady Xfce desktop.
Also suited to older hardware and everyday useLinux Lite
A lightweight Windows-style desktop for newcomers.
Also suited to older hardware and everyday useLinux Mint
A familiar desktop. A comfortable place to start.
Also suited to older hardware and everyday useLubuntu: common questions
What is Lubuntu based on?
Lubuntu is based on Ubuntu. It uses APT · Snap for software and systemd as its init system.
Is Lubuntu good for beginners?
Yes. Lubuntu is one of the more approachable distributions: light lxqt desktop.
How much RAM does Lubuntu need?
We suggest about 2 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 Lubuntu use?
Lubuntu offers LXQt.
Is Lubuntu a rolling release?
No. Lubuntu uses fixed releases; you upgrade to a new version periodically.
Is Lubuntu free?
Yes, Lubuntu is free to download and use.