Lubuntu vs Xubuntu in 2026: Which Lightweight Ubuntu Should You Choose?

Summary

The video compares Lubuntu and Xubuntu, two lightweight Ubuntu flavors designed for older or lower-spec computers. Both share the Ubuntu base, repositories, software compatibility, and security updates. Their main differences are their desktop environments and default applications.

Lubuntu

Lubuntu uses LXQt and emphasizes simplicity and low resource use, with a straightforward, Windows-like layout. The video estimates that a fresh installation idles at 600–750 MB of RAM.

It recommends Lubuntu for very old hardware—especially systems with 1–2 GB of RAM or less—and for users who want a simple, lightweight desktop.

Xubuntu

Xubuntu uses Xfce and offers a more feature-rich, customizable desktop, including flexible panels, widgets, themes, shortcuts, and compositing options. Its estimated idle memory use is 800–950 MB.

The video presents Xubuntu as a more complete daily-driver option for systems with around 2–4 GB of RAM, particularly for users who value customization.

Performance and applications

Lubuntu may feel snappier on very low-end hardware, but the difference becomes smaller when running demanding everyday applications, such as Firefox with multiple tabs or LibreOffice. Both are described as running smoothly on modest hardware.

Lubuntu keeps its default software selection minimal and uses PCManFM-Qt as its file manager. Xubuntu includes Thunar and a few extra tools, making it feel more ready for productivity immediately after installation. Missing software can be installed from Ubuntu repositories on either system.

Stability and flexibility

Both systems are described as stable and supported through Ubuntu LTS releases. Users can also install both desktop environments and choose between them at the login screen.

Main speaker or source

The video’s narrator represents the CodeInc channel.