Side by side
Linux Mint vs Lubuntu
Both stand on operating systems. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Linux
Linux Mint provides a free desktop system with three editions, built-in apps and a software manager. Check the hardware requirements and driver setup needs for your computer before installing it.
Visit Linux Mint Free plan Linux
Lubuntu combines a lightweight LXQt desktop with familiar applications and broad everyday file support. Choosing an LTS release avoids the shorter interim support period.
Visit LubuntuThe facts
| Linux Mint | Lubuntu | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux | Linux |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | linuxmint.com | lubuntu.me |
| On operating systems | #20 of 42 | #24 of 42 |
Linux Mint: what it does well
- Free for desktop and laptop computers.
- Includes LibreOffice, Firefox and multimedia apps.
- Offers Cinnamon, Xfce and MATE editions.
- LTS releases receive five years of support.
What to know first
- Requires at least 2GB RAM and 20GB disk space.
- Proprietary ATI or Nvidia drivers are not installed by default.
- Linux Mint 22.3 support ends in April 2029.
Lubuntu: what it does well
- Free Linux desktop operating system
- LXQt desktop with common applications
- Discover installs additional software
- Supports common media and document formats
- LTS support listed through April 2029
What to know first
- Experimental Wayland session has known issues
- Interim releases receive only nine months support
- Additional codecs require ubuntu-restricted-extras
- 26.10 beta has substantial theming issues
Alternatives to Linux Mint Alternatives to Lubuntu The whole list