Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteProton VPN Free and Windscribe Free both have official Linux support that includes Ubuntu, and one 2026 Ubuntu 24.04 test measured download speeds of 380 Mbps and 410 Mbps, respectively. Those are results from one test setup, not speed guarantees. There is no comparable published Ubuntu RAM test for the two clients, so the available evidence cannot establish which uses less memory.
Ubuntu speed results: what the test measured
In a 2026 multi-distro test, Gaurav Tiwari used fresh virtual machines, including Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, on a MacBook Pro M5 Pro host with 24 GB of RAM. The host used a 1 Gbps fiber connection, and the speed measurements used Netherlands servers. The reported download results were:
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| Free VPN | Reported Ubuntu download speed | Test attribution and conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Proton VPN Free | 380 Mbps | Gaurav Tiwari’s 2026 test; Ubuntu 24.04 virtual machine, 1 Gbps fiber through the host, Netherlands server. |
| Windscribe Free | 410 Mbps | Gaurav Tiwari’s 2026 test; Ubuntu 24.04 virtual machine, 1 Gbps fiber through the host, Netherlands server. |
Windscribe was 30 Mbps faster in that reported comparison, but one result is not enough to establish a dependable winner. Server load, network route, protocol, client release, virtualization and the user’s baseline connection can all affect speed. The figures describe this tester’s setup, not what every Ubuntu user should expect.
Do not compare those Ubuntu results directly with other reviews’ headline numbers unless the platforms and methods match. For example, Tom’s Guide reports up to 1,009 Mbps for Proton VPN Free using a Windows setup, 10 Gbps Ethernet, five tests averaged by their median, and US and UK servers. That is a different test, not evidence of Proton’s speed on Ubuntu.
#1 Best Overall
- 12th Intel Alder Lake N95 Processor – The GMKtec G3 S Mini PC is powered by the 12th Gen Intel N95 processor with 4 cores, 4 threads, 6MB cache and a burst frequency up to 3.4GHz. Compared with N100/N5105/N5100/N5095, the N95 delivers up to 36% overall performance improvement. Perfect for routine tasks, office work, and home entertainment, this compact mini desktop is more convenient than traditional bulky PCs.
- 8GB RAM & 256GB SSD Storage – Pre-installed with 8GB DDR4 memory and a fast 256GB M.2 2242 SSD, the G3 S mini desktop offers quicker startup, smoother multitasking, and faster file transfers. Enjoy seamless performance whether you’re working on multiple applications, browsing, or streaming content.
- Rich Interfaces & Connectivity – The G3 S mini computer comes equipped with USB 3.2 (up to 10Gbps), dual HDMI 2.0 (4K@60Hz), and a 3.5mm audio jack. With support for WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, and Gigabit Ethernet (RJ45 1000MbE), it connects easily with monitors, projectors, printers, office equipment, and other peripherals, making it versatile for both home and business use.
- Dual 4K Display Support – Featuring upgraded Intel UHD Graphics (up to 1000MHz), the G3 S supports 4K video playback and AV1 decoding for a smooth viewing experience. With dual HDMI outputs, you can connect two 4K@60Hz displays simultaneously, enabling efficient multitasking for work and entertainment.
- GMKTEC WARRANTY - GMKtec offers a 3-year limited warranty (1 year replacement + 2 years parts replacement) for each mini PC, starting from the date of the purchase effective on all sales starting Oct. 2026. All defects due to design and workmanship are covered. With a professional after sales team always ready to attend to your needs, you can simply relax and enjoy your mini PC
Ubuntu support, installation options and free-plan limits
| Provider | Official Ubuntu support | Free plan limits described by the provider | Connection and security details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Proton VPN | Official Linux app supports Ubuntu, Debian and Fedora. Proton describes the current Linux app as version 4. | Free users are automatically connected to a free server. Proton’s page lists ten possible countries; availability can change. | Proton says the app includes a kill switch and DNS leak protection. Its current official Linux v4 app does not yet support a command-line tool. |
| Windscribe | Official support article dated August 26, 2026 lists Ubuntu 22.04 or newer. Official Debian/Ubuntu packages are available for AMD64 and ARM64/AARCH64. | Free accounts get 2 GB per month by default, or 10 GB after confirming an email address, and can connect only to free locations. | The official help article covers the desktop app. The tested workflow can differ by client version; the independent 2026 test reports using terminal commands for its setup. |
Proton’s official Linux support FAQ says, “You can officially use the Proton VPN app on Debian, Ubuntu, and Fedora.” Windscribe’s August 26, 2026 support article says, “Free accounts can connect only to free VPN locations.” Check each provider’s current documentation before installing: supported releases, packages, and free-account terms can change.
A Linux-focused Top10VPN review reports that it tested 23 free VPNs and found dedicated GUI apps among the tested free options only for Proton VPN and Windscribe. It also reported usability issues with Windscribe’s app in its own testing. Treat that as the reviewer’s finding, not a guarantee about every current release or desktop environment.
Rank #2
- 【Powerful AMD Core Running Performance】Adopt AMD Ryzen 5 7430U processor with 6 cores 12 threads, clock speed reach up to 4.3GHz. This mini computer delivers steady running performance to match daily office operation, daily home entertainment and light gaming usage demands, stable output without frequent stutter, fit for long time daily use.
- 【Smooth 4K Multi-screen Display Output】Built-in AMD Radeon graphics card with 1800MHz working frequency, this mini gaming pc supports 4K 60Hz video output. Equipped with HDMI, DP 1.2 and Type-C three display interfaces, users can freely combine connection ways to realize triple screen linkage, convenient for multi-task work split screen operation and high-definition video playback, improve daily operation efficiency effectively.
- 【Rich Interfaces & Stable Dual LAN Transmission】This mini pc comes with complete daily mainstream ports, including multiple USB 3.2/USB2.0 ports, audio jack, DC power port and other common interfaces. Equipped with 2.5G dual RJ45 wired network port, support fast and stable data transmission, can stably connect with monitor, projector, office equipment and household audio-visual devices, meet diversified external connection needs.
- 【Dual High-speed Wireless Connection Mode】Equipped with WiFi6 wireless network module and upgraded Bluetooth 5.3 version on this micro pc. WiFi6 brings faster network access speed and smoother network signal transmission; Bluetooth 5.3 realizes low-delay stable connection with wireless keyboard, mouse, headset, printer and other peripheral devices, optimize daily wireless using experience.
- 【Large Expandable Memory & Reliable Heat Dissipation】Configured with 16GB 3200MHz DDR4 RAM and 512GB built-in SSD, users can expand memory up to 64GB and solid state storage up to 4TB through reserved expansion slots. Compact body structure adopts aluminum alloy shell and honeycomb heat dissipation holes, speed up internal air circulation, lower operating temperature, maintain long-term stable operation and extend service life.
Ubuntu RAM results: no fair comparison is established
The cited Ubuntu speed test and Linux-focused comparison do not report a reproducible, like-for-like measurement of the two free clients’ RAM use on Ubuntu. There is therefore no supported basis for saying which client uses less memory, or for giving a typical Ubuntu RAM figure.
Comparitech’s ongoing system-impact page describes monitoring at 1 Hz and a score that weights marginal CPU per Mbps and RAM. It includes general VPN resource measurements, including Proton VPN memory figures, but does not establish a controlled comparison of the free Linux builds on Ubuntu under the same workload. Those measurements are broad context, not Ubuntu results. Individual user discussions and an older GitHub issue are anecdotes from different systems and times, not representative benchmarks.
Rank #3
- 【AMD Ryzen 3 5300U CPU: Outperforms N150 & 3500U】 BOSGAME E5 mini PC is powered by the TSMC 7nm FinFET architecture AMD Ryzen 3 5300U processor (4 Cores, 8 Threads, up to 3.8GHz boost, 6MB total cache). Compared to low-end Intel N150 or 3500U chips which only have 4 single threads and throttle under load, the 5300U delivers over 30% faster multi-core speed. Run 30+ browser tabs, large Excel sheets, and Zoom meetings simultaneously without system lag.
- 【8GB DDR4 RAM & 256GB NVMe SSD Storage】 Installed with high-speed 8GB DDR4 dual-channel memory and a fast 256GB M.2 2280 SSD, eliminating slow boot times and application loading delays. To accommodate growing data requirements, the upgradeable hardware design features dual SODIMM slots that allow you to expand memory up to 64GB RAM, ensuring smooth operation during heavy multitasking.
- 【High-Capacity Dual M.2 SSD Storage Expansion】 Never worry about running out of space for your business files. In addition to the pre-installed 256GB system drive, the motherboard houses an extra empty internal M.2 2280 NVMe PCIe 3.0 slot. This allows you to easily add a second solid-state drive for up to an additional 2TB of storage capacity (upgrades not included) without needing to remove or reinstall the original operating system.
- 【Radeon 6-Core Graphics & Triple 4K Displays】 Integrated with official AMD Radeon Graphics (6 Graphics Cores, 1500 MHz frequency) for casual gaming, photo editing, and crisp 4K media decoding. Featuring 1x HDMI 2.0 port, 1x DisplayPort, and 1x Full-Function Type-C port, the E5 outputs true 4K@60Hz resolution to three monitors at once. This multi-screen setup eliminates constant window-switching for traders, programmers, and office workers.
- 【Dual 2.5GbE LAN Ports for Advanced Networking】 Experience fast wired network transmission speeds up to 2500Mbps without lagging or buffering. The integration of dual 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports (powered by Realtek RTL8125 controller) makes this compact computer an exceptional hardware choice for tech enthusiasts. Easily configure it into software routers, hardware firewalls (pfSense, OpnSense), home NAS servers, or local homelabs.
What a useful Ubuntu memory test would need
A fair comparison would run both clients on the same Ubuntu release and machine, with the same protocol and workload. It should report app and daemon memory separately, rather than treating installer size or total system memory as the VPN client’s RAM use.
- Record the Ubuntu release, hardware, client versions, protocol, and test network.
- After a fixed warm-up, record app and daemon RSS or PSS at idle.
- Run an identical sustained transfer and record the same memory measures while active.
- Repeat the runs and report medians and variability, keeping app memory distinct from total system memory.
Without results from that kind of test, a memory ranking would be speculation.
Rank #4
- 【Powerful & Efficient Performance】Powered by the Intel Celeron J3355 Processor (up to 2.5GHz), this Mini PC delivers a 25% performance boost over previous generations. Pre-installed with Windows 11 Home and supporting Linux/Ubuntu, it’s the ideal micro desktop for seamless web browsing, document editing, and efficient daily office tasks.
- 【Massive Storage & Unique Expansion】Equipped with 6GB LPDDR3 RAM and 128GB onboard storage for fast boot-ups. Stand out with our dual M.2 SSD slot design (1x SATA + 1x NVMe), allowing you to easily expand storage up to 2TB without replacing the original drive. Perfect for managing large digital libraries and intensive multitasking.
- 【Stunning 4K Dual HDMI Display】Boost your productivity with Intel HD Graphics 500 and dual HDMI ports, supporting 4K @60Hz high-definition visuals. Connect two monitors simultaneously to streamline your workflow—ideal for home office setups, stock trading, or enjoying a theater-like 4K media experience.
- 【Ultra-Compact & Space-Saving Design】Measuring only 4.2x4.1x1.4 inches and weighing just 0.49 lbs, this palm-sized mini computer fits anywhere. Use the included VESA bracket to mount it behind your monitor for a zero-clutter workspace. Features a smart silent fan and heat sink system for quiet, reliable 24/7 operation.
- 【Stable Connectivity & Smart Recovery】Stay connected with Dual-Band WiFi (2.4G/5G), Bluetooth 5.0, and Gigabit Ethernet. Exclusive One-Click Restore feature (via F9 key) allows for quick system recovery in minutes. Backed by Bmax's 12-month warranty and lifetime technical support for a worry-free purchase.
Why protocol and client details matter
Protocol research helps explain why speed figures can vary, but it cannot substitute for testing commercial VPN services. An academic study, Performance of Open Source Virtual Private Networks, tested Ubuntu 22.04 and Ubuntu 24.04 among its environments and concluded that “WireGuard still outperforms OpenVPN in terms of performance on all environments tested.” The study also reports that OpenVPN Data Channel Offload can rival WireGuard under some tested conditions. These are protocol implementation results, not a Proton VPN Free versus Windscribe Free product comparison.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →For an individual connection, the provider’s implementation, selected server, route and current load matter alongside the protocol. A protocol-level result alone cannot predict either client’s speed or memory use on a particular Ubuntu system.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- WHY CHOOSE G3 ULTRA MINI PC PENTIUM GOLD 7505 - Choose the Intel Pentium Gold 7505 for snappier everyday responsiveness: It delivers up to 30% faster single-core performance than the Ryzen 5 3500U, making office apps and web browsing feel noticeably quicker, while its Intel UHD Graphics (48 EUs) provides 2.4x the GPU performance of the N100 & N150's 24-EU graphics, ensuring smoother 4K streaming and light photo editing.
- 16GB RAM MEMORY & 512GB STORAGE - GMKtec Nucbox G3 Ultra mini computer is prebuilt with 16GB LPDDR4 RAM at 3200 MT/s, you will enjoy a speedier experience with Built-in 512GB M.2 SATA Hard Drive. Our mini desktop pc boots up in seconds, work on multiple browser tabs, software applications and quickly transfers files. There is a primary slot and secondary expansion storage. Primary slot is M.2 2280 PCIE and secondary slot is M.2 2280 SATA.
- RICH INTERFACE - Nucbox pentium mini computer is equipped with 3* USB 3.2 Gen2 ports, up to 10Gbps/S, 1*USB 2.0, HDMI(4K@60Hz)*2, 3.5mm Audio Jack. Supports WiFi 6, and Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 2.5GbE network connectivity, Bluetooth 5.2. This Mini PC supports multiple device connection and can be used with servers, monitoring equipment, office equipment, displays, projectors, televisions, etc.
- 4K DUAL SCREEN DISPLAY - Mini desktop computer is equipped with upgraded Intel Graphics(max 1000MHz), supports 4K video playback and AV1 decoding, connect the pc with a projector as a home theatre, enjoy a variety of entertainments. Two HDMI 2.0 ports allows you to multi-task efficiently on two 4K@60Hz displays.
- UPGRADED COOLING FAN - The G3 Ultra has upgraded the cooling fan to reduce fan noise and thermals. We are using an upgraded thermal paste as well to help reduce heat on the CPU.
Which free VPN fits your Ubuntu use?
- Choose based on your Ubuntu release and CPU architecture first. Windscribe’s documented requirement is Ubuntu 22.04 or newer, with AMD64 and ARM64/AARCH64 packages listed. Proton officially lists Ubuntu support but the cited page does not specify package architectures here.
- Consider server selection and data needs. Proton’s free app automatically connects to a free server. Windscribe’s free plan restricts connections to free locations and has a monthly allowance of 2 GB by default or 10 GB after email confirmation.
- Choose a workflow you are comfortable maintaining. Proton’s current Linux v4 app lacks a command-line tool, while Windscribe’s official help covers its desktop app and the cited independent test used terminal commands. Check the latest provider instructions for the exact client version you install.
- Do not choose on an unmeasured RAM difference. The available evidence provides no controlled Ubuntu client-memory comparison. The cited speeds offer one limited comparison point, not an overall verdict.
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