There are two Linux distributions, Lubuntu(lightweight Linux distribution) and Xubuntu( Linux distribution which has preconfigured Xfce), and these distros are equally famous among users. Both Lubuntu and Xubuntu are the top choice of Linux enthusiasts who are more into lightweight Linux distros as they offer the best performance on any old computer/laptop. However, many people always argue about Xubuntu vs. Lubuntu. We have covered complete details with a side-by-side comparison of Xubuntu and Lubuntu to help you choose between the two.
Xubuntu vs. Lubuntu
Before discussing a brief difference between Xubuntu and Lubuntu, we will cover some vital information about them.
What is Xubuntu?
Xubuntu is an easy-to-use Linux distro with a preconfigured Xfce, so it becomes a more light, stable, and highly configurable desktop environment. Many Linux enthusiasts prefer Xubuntu because it is best for those who need Linux distros with more efficient daily usage features for daily usage on a low-end computer/laptop.
Xubuntu offers leanness, but it doesn’t compromise the Linux distro’s performance on any low-end system. It provides a good UI system without impacting the PC system’s resources, so Xubuntu is a little better than Lubuntu in terms of features and UI.
As we have mentioned above, Xubuntu has an Xfce, but it is not as bare as LxQT. However, Xfce is lighter than KDE or GNOME, and there is multiple software also available for Xubuntu. AS per the low-end system requirements, it needs at least 512MB of RAM for proper working.
What is Lubuntu?
Lubuntu is based on the Linux kernel derived from the Ubuntu distributions, which is entirely free because it was developed under the GNU license as an open-source tool. It is a lightweight and fast operating system that offers easy to use and simple interface.
This Linux distro uses a desktop Julien Lavergne developed requirements for the best performance. Mario Behling created Lubuntu, but Julien Lavergne developed it.
Lubuntu offers a higher lightweight system because of the LxQt(LxDE) desktop environment because it works to make the system more stable while running on low specification computers/laptops. That’s why Lubuntu becomes more durable and easy to use as compared to other lightweight distros available.
Users can easily place icons wherever they want, and there is a right-click menu for enhancing the user experience. However, it doesn’t offer any desktop effects and animations, so there is little customization scope. For achieving more leanness, Lubuntu has its specific applications, so rather than LibreOffice, users can get Gnumeric and Abiword as replacements. As per the requirements, you can run Lubuntu on a low-end pc with 256MB of RAM.
Comparison Between Xubuntu and Lubuntu
The comparison between Xubuntu and Lubuntu is based on the features and system offered to users.
- Lubuntu requires at least 224 MB of RAM, but Xubuntu needs at least 512 MB of RAM for proper functioning.
- Installation of Lubuntu requires 160MB of RAM, but Xubuntu installation requires 256MB of RAM.
- Lubuntu is based on the LXDE, but Xubuntu is based on the Xfce.
- Lubuntu is lighter and faster as compared to Xubuntu.
Xubuntu Vs. Lubuntu: Head to Head Comparison Table
| Factors | Lubuntu | Xubuntu |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum RAM | 224 MB of RAM | 512 MB of RAM |
| Installation Requirements | 160 MB of RAM | 256 MB of RAM |
| Desktop Environments | LXDE | Xfce |
Which One is Better: Xubuntu vs. Lubuntu
Both of these lightweight Linux distros can fulfill the requirements if you want to use them in a low-end system. In case you want to switch from one operating system to another or want reasons to get switched, then here are the reasons:
- If you don’t want to pay for the OS upgrades.
- If you need a more secure and affordable option.
- If you require a simple to use desktop
- If you don’t like macOS or Windows operating systems.
Conclusion
That wraps up a brief comparison and complete details of Xubuntu and Lubuntu with the reasons to get switched on these Linux distros. As we have mentioned, Lubuntu has LxQt(LxDE), and Xubuntu has preconfigured Xfce, so these Linux distros become lightweight because they require less space for appropriate working. In our opinion, both of these operating systems are amazing and hold their features and specialties, so Lubuntu and Xubuntu are equally best.
