Lubuntu vs MX Linux
| Lubuntu | MX Linux | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | No | Yes |
| Free trial | No | No |
| Paid from | — | Free |
| Open source | No | No |
| Platforms | Linux | Linux |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Device types | Desktop PCs and laptops; project homepage also mentions Raspberry Pi | Desktop and laptop computers; removable USB media for live operation |
| 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. | Major versions follow Debian Stable releases; support duration varies by release (official chart linked in FAQ, but not verified here). |
| App compatibility | Discover Software Center for installing applications; supports common file formats including documents, images, audio, and video | Debian packages and repositories, Debian Backports, Flatpak, Snap on supported setups, AppImage |
| Deployment models | Installable desktop operating system; downloadable desktop ISO image | Install on physical computers; live system from USB; customized live/remastered images |
| CPU architectures | — | 64-bit only for MX-25 official releases |
| Built-in management | — | MX Tools; MX Updater with package update checks, upgrade modes and scheduled unattended upgrades; MX Package Installer |
Both are listed in Best Operating Systems. On Freedom251, MX Linux scores higher on our published basis.