Linux distributions are pretty popular these days like Kubuntu & Ubuntu. And there has always been a conflict of interest regarding different distributions and which is the best. More than 300 Linux distributions are currently used and are actively maintained including some popular distros like Manjaro, Debian, Arch, Fedora, Kali, etc. With many options, it becomes difficult for Linux enthusiasts to choose from.
Also check: KDE vs XFCE desktop environments
In this article, we will compare Kubuntu vs Ubuntu depending on the following attributes :
- What are Kubuntu and Ubuntu?
- UI and Desktop Environments
- Application and Software Support
- Privacy and Security
- Community Support
- System Requirements
Kubuntu Overview
As the name derives, it is a distribution built on top of other distributions i.e Ubuntu. Kubuntu is an open-source operating system and is a flavour of Ubuntu sharing the same repositories. This distro is based on Debian, which has excellent support. It comes with a KDE desktop by default. Kubuntu is widely used in primary and secondary schools due to its simplicity and support.
Ubuntu Overview
Ubuntu is another popular free and open-source Linux distribution. Mostly popular among Linux beginners who are looking for a user-friendly distro. It comes with a Gnome desktop environment by default. It is now available for desktop, server, IoT and cloud. People love to use this distro because there is a tutorial/solution for every issue on the internet about the distro.
UI and Desktop Environments
Kubuntu comes with a KDE environment. KDE is very popular and is one of the most used desktop environments on other distributions. The user interface is beautiful and very customisable compared to other desktop environments. It has great applications, widgets and functionalities.
It has its own store where you can find themes, extensions, addons and much more cool stuff to customise your experience as you wish. The users who love dark mode should definitely give it a try.
By default, Ubuntu comes with a Gnome desktop environment. Gnome is available on most GNU distros. I have been using gnome for a very long time and the overall experience is good. Just like KDE, Gnome has its own extension store. It is not as highly customisable as KDE because it only limits users to extensions.
But it consumes fewer resources than KDE. Although it has a wide range of extensions, you will find according to your need and increase your productivity. The Gnome browser integration works great for installing extensions.
Application and Software Support
KDE has an application store known as discover which is installed by default. Discover lets you install applications, tools, games, etc. Easily find your desired applications by browsing through categories or simply searching by name. You can see the provider of the application you are installing by visiting the project link or GitHub repository.
Not only does it allow installing software applications but also allows users to update their whole system with just a simple click.
With the help of the software centre, you can install software applications very easily. You can find almost every application according to your need.
The apps are available in the form of snaps or flatpak packages. If there is an application that is available for windows or mac, there is definitely an alternative in the software store developed by some computer geek.
Privacy and Security
Linux is known for its privacy and security. In both the operating systems, it is necessary to update the whole system because the updates consist of security patches for the system. The only thing shared with the respective company is the details of problems (if any) that occurred during the use of the distro. You can always turn off this in the settings. Other than this nothing is actually shared.
For security purposes, choose the “encrypt disk and install” while installing the distros. For network security, you can always install a firewall like UFW which adds an additional layer of security. These distributions are open source and developers around the world contribute to the project by contributing to bugs and issues.
Community Support
Both distros are based on Debian. And Debian gives a very stable environment. You are most likely to find solutions for your problems on platforms like StackOverflow, StackExchange, etc.
You can refer to the following links for official community support :
Where you can ask your doubts, post solutions and connect with other developers.
System Requirements
Both the distributions have similar system requirements as follows.
- 2 GHz dual-core processor or better
- 4 GB RAM
- 25 GB hard disk space
- USB stick
- Internet (optional)
Which one would you choose?
It is on you how you want your operating system should be depending on your needs. Both the distributions are excellent and have great support. If you are looking for a simple system for development with beginner knowledge you can go for Ubuntu and if you are more into customising your own system the way you like you can go for Kubuntu.
References and further reading
- Lubuntu vs Xubuntu – What is the difference?
- GDM3 vs LightDM Which One Is Better?
- Desktop Environment vs Window Manager – Explained