elementary OS vs Lubuntu
| elementary OS | Lubuntu | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | No | No |
| Free trial | No | No |
| Paid from | — | — |
| Open source | No | No |
| Platforms | Linux | Linux |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Device types | PCs and Macs; Apple Silicon and Raspberry Pi devices are listed as ARM download targets | Desktop PCs and laptops; project homepage also mentions Raspberry Pi |
| CPU architectures | Intel or AMD 64-bit; ARM 64-bit | — |
| Built-in management | AppCenter and System Settings provide app and OS updates; automatic OS updates can be enabled | — |
| App compatibility | Curated AppCenter apps; Flatpak sideloading from third-party sources | Discover Software Center for installing applications; supports common file formats including documents, images, audio, and video |
| Deployment models | Installable on physical computers; ISO installation media; OEM installation and custom disk imaging | Installable desktop operating system; downloadable desktop ISO image |
| Support lifecycle | — | LTS releases are supported for three years; interim releases for nine months. Lubuntu 26.04 LTS is listed as supported until April 2029. |
Both are listed in Best Operating Systems. On Freedom251, elementary OS scores higher on our published basis.