# Top 10 Xubuntu Alternatives & Competitors **Average Rating:** 4.4/5 **Total Number of Reviews:** 74 The Operating Systems solutions below are the most common alternatives that users and reviewers compare with Xubuntu. Other important factors to consider when researching alternatives to Xubuntu include user interface. The best overall Xubuntu alternative is Debian. Other similar apps like Xubuntu are Linux Mint, Windows 7, Kubuntu, and Lubuntu. Xubuntu alternatives can be found in [Operating Systems](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system). ## Best Paid & Free Alternatives to Xubuntu - [Debian](https://www.g2.com/products/debian/reviews) - [Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/products/linux-mint/reviews) - [Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/products/windows-7/reviews) - [Kubuntu](https://www.g2.com/products/kubuntu-devs-kubuntu/reviews) - [Lubuntu](https://www.g2.com/products/lubuntu/reviews) - [Manjaro](https://www.g2.com/products/manjaro/reviews) - [Zorin](https://www.g2.com/products/zorin/reviews) - [Arch](https://www.g2.com/products/arch/reviews) - [Pop!_OS](https://www.g2.com/products/pop-_os/reviews) - [CentOS](https://www.g2.com/products/centos/reviews) ## Top 10 Alternatives to Xubuntu Recently Reviewed By G2 Community Browse options below. Based on reviewer data, you can see how Xubuntu stacks up to the competition, check reviews from current & previous users in industries like Information Technology and Services, Higher Education, and Education Management, and find the best product for your business. ### 1. [Debian](https://www.g2.com/products/debian/reviews) By Debian Project **Average Rating:** 4.6/5 **Total Reviews:** 223 Debian is a free and open-source operating system developed collaboratively by a global community of volunteers. Established in 1993, it has become one of the most popular and influential Linux distributions, known for its stability, security, and extensive software repositories. Debian serves as the foundation for numerous other distributions, including Ubuntu and Linux Mint, and is widely used on both servers and desktops. Key Features and Functionality: - Extensive Software Repository: Debian offers access to over 59,000 software packages, providing users with a vast selection of applications and tools to meet diverse needs. - Multi-Architecture Support: It supports a wide range of hardware architectures, from common x86-64 systems to ARM-based devices and IBM mainframes, ensuring broad compatibility. - Advanced Package Management: Debian utilizes the Advanced Packaging Tool (APT) for efficient package management, simplifying the installation, upgrade, and removal of software. - Security and Stability: With a strong focus on security, Debian provides timely updates and a robust security infrastructure, making it a reliable choice for critical systems. - Community-Driven Development: The Debian Project is governed by a social contract and constitution, emphasizing transparency, collaboration, and adherence to free software principles. Primary Value and User Solutions: Debian addresses the needs of users seeking a dependable and versatile operating system that upholds the ideals of free software. Its comprehensive package repository and support for multiple architectures make it suitable for a wide array of applications, from personal computing to enterprise servers. The community-driven approach ensures continuous improvement and responsiveness to user needs, while its commitment to security and stability provides a trustworthy platform for both developers and end-users. Reviewers say compared to Xubuntu, Debian is: - Slower to reach roi - More expensive - Easier to admin Categories in common with Xubuntu: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system) **Compare:** [Xubuntu vs Debian](https://www.g2.com/compare/debian-vs-xubuntu) **Compare Debian with other alternatives:** - [Debian vs Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/compare/debian-vs-linux-mint) - [Debian vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/debian-vs-windows-7) - [Debian vs Kubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/debian-vs-kubuntu-devs-kubuntu) - [Debian vs Lubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/debian-vs-lubuntu) - [Debian vs Manjaro](https://www.g2.com/compare/debian-vs-manjaro) - [Debian vs Zorin](https://www.g2.com/compare/debian-vs-zorin) - [Debian vs Arch](https://www.g2.com/compare/arch-vs-debian) - [Debian vs Pop!_OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/debian-vs-pop-_os) - [Debian vs CentOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-debian) ### 2. [Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/products/linux-mint/reviews) By Linux Mark Institute **Average Rating:** 4.5/5 **Total Reviews:** 190 Linux Mint is a community-driven Linux distribution that aims to provide a modern, elegant, and comfortable operating system that is both powerful and easy to use. Based on Ubuntu and Debian, it offers full multimedia support out of the box and comes bundled with a variety of free and open-source applications. The default desktop environment is Cinnamon, developed by the Linux Mint team, with MATE and Xfce available as alternatives. Linux Mint is available for x86-64 systems. Key Features and Functionality: - User-Friendly Interface: Linux Mint features the Cinnamon desktop environment, which combines modern design with traditional desktop elements, providing an intuitive and familiar user experience. - Comprehensive Software Suite: Pre-installed applications include LibreOffice for office productivity, Firefox for web browsing, Thunderbird for email management, and VLC media player for multimedia playback. - Multimedia Support: Out-of-the-box support for various multimedia formats, including MP3, MP4, and DVD playback, ensuring users can enjoy their media without additional configurations. - Software Management: The Software Manager allows easy installation and management of thousands of applications, while the Update Manager ensures the system remains secure and up-to-date. - Customization and Flexibility: Users can personalize their desktop with various themes, applets, and extensions, tailoring the system to their preferences. Primary Value and User Solutions: Linux Mint addresses the need for a user-friendly and fully functional operating system that caters to both beginners and experienced users. By providing a stable and secure environment with comprehensive multimedia support and a rich set of pre-installed applications, it eliminates the need for extensive post-installation configurations. Its commitment to simplicity and ease of use makes it an ideal choice for those transitioning from other operating systems or seeking a reliable Linux experience. Reviewers say compared to Xubuntu, Linux Mint is: - Slower to reach roi - Easier to set up - Easier to admin Categories in common with Xubuntu: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system) **Compare:** [Xubuntu vs Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/compare/linux-mint-vs-xubuntu) **Compare Linux Mint with other alternatives:** - [Linux Mint vs Debian](https://www.g2.com/compare/debian-vs-linux-mint) - [Linux Mint vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/linux-mint-vs-windows-7) - [Linux Mint vs Kubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/kubuntu-devs-kubuntu-vs-linux-mint) - [Linux Mint vs Lubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/linux-mint-vs-lubuntu) - [Linux Mint vs Manjaro](https://www.g2.com/compare/linux-mint-vs-manjaro) - [Linux Mint vs Zorin](https://www.g2.com/compare/linux-mint-vs-zorin) - [Linux Mint vs Arch](https://www.g2.com/compare/arch-vs-linux-mint) - [Linux Mint vs Pop!_OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/linux-mint-vs-pop-_os) - [Linux Mint vs CentOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-linux-mint) ### 3. [Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/products/windows-7/reviews) By Microsoft **Average Rating:** 4.2/5 **Total Reviews:** 903 Windows 7, released by Microsoft in October 2009, is a desktop operating system designed to enhance user experience and system performance. Building upon its predecessor, Windows Vista, it introduced a more intuitive interface and improved functionality, catering to both home and business users. Key Features and Functionality: - Redesigned Taskbar: The new taskbar allows users to pin applications for quick access and provides live previews of open windows, streamlining navigation. - Aero Snap and Aero Shake: These window management features enable users to easily organize open windows by snapping them to screen edges or minimizing all but the active window with a simple shake gesture. - HomeGroup: Simplifies home networking by allowing users to share files and printers across multiple PCs effortlessly. - Libraries: Aggregates files from various locations into unified views, making it easier to manage documents, music, pictures, and videos. - Improved Performance: Optimized for faster boot times and efficient resource management, Windows 7 delivers a more responsive computing experience. - Enhanced Security: Features like the Action Center provide a centralized location for security and maintenance notifications, while User Account Control (UAC) has been refined to be less intrusive. Primary Value and User Solutions: Windows 7 addresses the shortcomings of previous operating systems by offering a more stable and user-friendly environment. Its enhanced performance and intuitive features reduce system crashes and improve productivity. The streamlined interface and advanced window management tools allow users to multitask more effectively. Additionally, improved networking capabilities simplify the sharing of resources among multiple devices, making it an ideal solution for both personal and professional use. Reviewers say compared to Xubuntu, Windows 7 is: - Slower to reach roi - More expensive - Easier to set up Categories in common with Xubuntu: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system) **Compare:** [Xubuntu vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/windows-7-vs-xubuntu) **Compare Windows 7 with other alternatives:** - [Windows 7 vs Debian](https://www.g2.com/compare/debian-vs-windows-7) - [Windows 7 vs Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/compare/linux-mint-vs-windows-7) - [Windows 7 vs Kubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/kubuntu-devs-kubuntu-vs-windows-7) - [Windows 7 vs Lubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/lubuntu-vs-windows-7) - [Windows 7 vs Manjaro](https://www.g2.com/compare/manjaro-vs-windows-7) - [Windows 7 vs Zorin](https://www.g2.com/compare/windows-7-vs-zorin) - [Windows 7 vs Arch](https://www.g2.com/compare/arch-vs-windows-7) - [Windows 7 vs Pop!_OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/pop-_os-vs-windows-7) - [Windows 7 vs CentOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-windows-7) ### 4. [Kubuntu](https://www.g2.com/products/kubuntu-devs-kubuntu/reviews) By Kubuntu devs **Average Rating:** 4.3/5 **Total Reviews:** 96 Kubuntu is a community-driven Linux distribution that combines the robust foundation of Ubuntu with the elegant and powerful KDE Plasma desktop environment. Launched in October 2004, Kubuntu has grown into a highly respected operating system, serving millions of users worldwide. It offers a stable, secure, and user-friendly experience, making it suitable for both newcomers and seasoned Linux enthusiasts. Key Features and Functionality: - KDE Plasma Desktop: Provides a sleek, customizable, and intuitive user interface with thoughtfully chosen defaults for a smooth experience. - Comprehensive Suite of Applications: Includes a wide range of pre-installed KDE applications for productivity, multimedia, and system management. - Regular Updates: Follows a six-month release cycle, ensuring users have access to the latest features and security patches. - Free and Open Source: Kubuntu is free to download, use, distribute, and modify, adhering to the principles of open-source software. - Community Support: Backed by a vibrant community, offering extensive documentation and support channels for users. Primary Value and User Solutions: Kubuntu addresses the need for a reliable and user-friendly Linux distribution that leverages the strengths of both Ubuntu and KDE Plasma. It provides a seamless computing experience with a focus on ease of use, customization, and performance. By offering a comprehensive suite of applications and regular updates, Kubuntu ensures users have the tools they need for work, creativity, and entertainment, all within a secure and open-source environment. Reviewers say compared to Xubuntu, Kubuntu is: - Slower to reach roi - Easier to admin - Easier to set up Categories in common with Xubuntu: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system) **Compare:** [Xubuntu vs Kubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/kubuntu-devs-kubuntu-vs-xubuntu) **Compare Kubuntu with other alternatives:** - [Kubuntu vs Debian](https://www.g2.com/compare/debian-vs-kubuntu-devs-kubuntu) - [Kubuntu vs Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/compare/kubuntu-devs-kubuntu-vs-linux-mint) - [Kubuntu vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/kubuntu-devs-kubuntu-vs-windows-7) - [Kubuntu vs Lubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/kubuntu-devs-kubuntu-vs-lubuntu) - [Kubuntu vs Manjaro](https://www.g2.com/compare/kubuntu-devs-kubuntu-vs-manjaro) - [Kubuntu vs Zorin](https://www.g2.com/compare/kubuntu-devs-kubuntu-vs-zorin) - [Kubuntu vs Arch](https://www.g2.com/compare/arch-vs-kubuntu-devs-kubuntu) - [Kubuntu vs Pop!_OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/kubuntu-devs-kubuntu-vs-pop-_os) - [Kubuntu vs CentOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-kubuntu-devs-kubuntu) ### 5. [Lubuntu](https://www.g2.com/products/lubuntu/reviews) By Lubuntu **Average Rating:** 4.4/5 **Total Reviews:** 83 Lubuntu is a lightweight Linux distribution based on Ubuntu, utilizing the LXQt desktop environment to deliver a fast and energy-efficient operating system. Designed with simplicity and resource efficiency in mind, Lubuntu is particularly well-suited for older computers or devices with limited hardware capabilities. Despite its minimalistic approach, it offers a fully functional system capable of handling general computing tasks such as web browsing, word processing, and multimedia playback. Key Features and Functionality: - Lightweight Desktop Environment: Employs LXQt, known for its low resource consumption and user-friendly interface. - Energy Efficiency: Optimized to consume less power, making it ideal for laptops and energy-conscious users. - Compatibility: Maintains compatibility with a wide range of Ubuntu repositories and applications. - Customizability: Offers a modular design, allowing users to tailor the system to their specific needs. - Regular Updates: Benefits from Ubuntu's regular release cycle, ensuring access to the latest features and security patches. Primary Value and User Solutions: Lubuntu addresses the need for a functional and efficient operating system that can breathe new life into aging hardware. By requiring significantly fewer system resources compared to standard Linux distributions, it enables users to extend the lifespan of their computers without compromising on performance. This makes Lubuntu an excellent choice for individuals and organizations seeking a cost-effective solution to utilize existing hardware for everyday computing tasks. Reviewers say compared to Xubuntu, Lubuntu is: - Slower to reach roi - Easier to admin - Easier to set up Categories in common with Xubuntu: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system) **Compare:** [Xubuntu vs Lubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/lubuntu-vs-xubuntu) **Compare Lubuntu with other alternatives:** - [Lubuntu vs Debian](https://www.g2.com/compare/debian-vs-lubuntu) - [Lubuntu vs Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/compare/linux-mint-vs-lubuntu) - [Lubuntu vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/lubuntu-vs-windows-7) - [Lubuntu vs Kubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/kubuntu-devs-kubuntu-vs-lubuntu) - [Lubuntu vs Manjaro](https://www.g2.com/compare/lubuntu-vs-manjaro) - [Lubuntu vs Zorin](https://www.g2.com/compare/lubuntu-vs-zorin) - [Lubuntu vs Arch](https://www.g2.com/compare/arch-vs-lubuntu) - [Lubuntu vs Pop!_OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/lubuntu-vs-pop-_os) - [Lubuntu vs CentOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-lubuntu) ### 6. [Manjaro](https://www.g2.com/products/manjaro/reviews) By Manjaro **Average Rating:** 4.5/5 **Total Reviews:** 60 Manjaro is a free and open-source Linux distribution based on Arch Linux, designed to provide a user-friendly and accessible operating system without compromising performance or flexibility. It employs a rolling release model, ensuring users have access to the latest software updates and features without the need for complete system reinstallation. Manjaro is developed primarily in Austria, France, and Germany, and is tailored to cater to both newcomers and experienced Linux users. Key Features and Functionality: - User-Centric Design: Manjaro offers a straightforward installation process with both command-line and graphical installers, making it accessible for users of varying technical backgrounds. - Multiple Desktop Environments: Official editions include Xfce, KDE Plasma, and GNOME, each featuring Manjaro's custom themes. Community editions provide additional environments like Cinnamon, i3, and Sway, allowing users to choose an interface that best suits their preferences. - Rolling Release Model: This approach ensures continuous updates, providing users with the latest software and security patches without the need for periodic system overhauls. - Package Management: Manjaro utilizes Pacman for command-line package management and Pamac for graphical management, facilitating easy software installation and updates. - Hardware Detection and Support: The Manjaro Hardware Detection (MHWD) tool automatically identifies and configures hardware components, including proprietary and open-source drivers, enhancing system compatibility and performance. - Arch User Repository (AUR) Access: Users can access a vast array of software through the AUR, expanding the availability of applications beyond the official repositories. Primary Value and User Solutions: Manjaro bridges the gap between the complexity of Arch Linux and the need for a more accessible system. It offers a stable, rolling-release platform that combines the latest software innovations with an intuitive user experience. By providing multiple desktop environments, robust hardware support, and a comprehensive package management system, Manjaro empowers users to explore and utilize Linux effectively, regardless of their technical expertise. Its commitment to user-friendliness and continuous updates ensures a reliable and up-to-date computing environment. Reviewers say compared to Xubuntu, Manjaro is: - Slower to reach roi - Easier to admin - Better at meeting requirements Categories in common with Xubuntu: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system) **Compare:** [Xubuntu vs Manjaro](https://www.g2.com/compare/manjaro-vs-xubuntu) **Compare Manjaro with other alternatives:** - [Manjaro vs Debian](https://www.g2.com/compare/debian-vs-manjaro) - [Manjaro vs Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/compare/linux-mint-vs-manjaro) - [Manjaro vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/manjaro-vs-windows-7) - [Manjaro vs Kubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/kubuntu-devs-kubuntu-vs-manjaro) - [Manjaro vs Lubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/lubuntu-vs-manjaro) - [Manjaro vs Zorin](https://www.g2.com/compare/manjaro-vs-zorin) - [Manjaro vs Arch](https://www.g2.com/compare/arch-vs-manjaro) - [Manjaro vs Pop!_OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/manjaro-vs-pop-_os) - [Manjaro vs CentOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-manjaro) ### 7. [Zorin](https://www.g2.com/products/zorin/reviews) By Zorin **Average Rating:** 4.5/5 **Total Reviews:** 47 Zorin OS is a user-friendly Linux distribution based on Ubuntu, designed to provide a familiar computing experience for users transitioning from Windows or macOS. It offers a sleek and intuitive interface that closely resembles traditional operating systems, making it accessible for newcomers to Linux. Zorin OS is available in multiple editions, including Core, Pro, and Lite, catering to a wide range of user needs and hardware capabilities. Key Features and Functionality: - Customizable Desktop Environments: Zorin OS provides a variety of desktop layouts that mimic the look and feel of Windows, macOS, and other operating systems, allowing users to choose an interface that suits their preferences. - Pre-installed Applications: The operating system comes with essential software such as the Brave web browser, LibreOffice suite, and Rhythmbox music player, enabling users to be productive immediately after installation. - Windows Compatibility Layer: With built-in support for Wine and PlayOnLinux, Zorin OS allows users to run many Windows applications seamlessly, facilitating a smoother transition for those accustomed to Windows software. - Zorin Connect: This feature enables integration between the user's computer and Android devices, allowing for file sharing, remote control, and notification syncing. - Enhanced Performance: Zorin OS is optimized for speed and efficiency, providing a responsive experience even on older hardware. Primary Value and User Solutions: Zorin OS addresses the challenges faced by users seeking an alternative to traditional operating systems by offering a familiar and customizable environment that reduces the learning curve associated with switching to Linux. Its compatibility with Windows applications ensures that users can continue using essential software without disruption. Additionally, Zorin OS's performance optimizations make it an ideal choice for revitalizing older computers, extending their usability and reducing electronic waste. By combining ease of use, versatility, and robust performance, Zorin OS empowers users to take control of their computing experience without compromising on functionality or familiarity. Reviewers say compared to Xubuntu, Zorin is: - Easier to admin - Easier to do business with - More usable Categories in common with Xubuntu: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system) **Compare:** [Xubuntu vs Zorin](https://www.g2.com/compare/xubuntu-vs-zorin) **Compare Zorin with other alternatives:** - [Zorin vs Debian](https://www.g2.com/compare/debian-vs-zorin) - [Zorin vs Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/compare/linux-mint-vs-zorin) - [Zorin vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/windows-7-vs-zorin) - [Zorin vs Kubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/kubuntu-devs-kubuntu-vs-zorin) - [Zorin vs Lubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/lubuntu-vs-zorin) - [Zorin vs Manjaro](https://www.g2.com/compare/manjaro-vs-zorin) - [Zorin vs Arch](https://www.g2.com/compare/arch-vs-zorin) - [Zorin vs Pop!_OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/pop-_os-vs-zorin) - [Zorin vs CentOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-zorin) ### 8. [Arch](https://www.g2.com/products/arch/reviews) By Arch Linux **Average Rating:** 4.4/5 **Total Reviews:** 45 Arch Linux is an independently developed, open-source Linux distribution renowned for its simplicity, flexibility, and user-centric design. It follows a rolling release model, ensuring users have continuous access to the latest stable versions of software without the need for major system upgrades. The default installation provides a minimal base system, allowing users to tailor their environment by adding only the components they require. Key Features and Functionality: - Rolling Release Model: Delivers continuous updates, granting users immediate access to the latest kernels, drivers, and software packages without the necessity for complete system reinstallations. - Pacman Package Manager: A powerful and efficient package management tool designed specifically for Arch Linux, facilitating easy installation, removal, and updating of software packages. - Arch User Repository (AUR): A community-driven repository that provides a vast array of user-contributed packages, extending the software availability beyond the official repositories. - Arch Build System (ABS): Allows users to build and customize packages from source, offering greater control over software installations. - Comprehensive Documentation: The ArchWiki offers extensive and detailed documentation, serving as a valuable resource for both new and experienced users. Primary Value and User Solutions: Arch Linux empowers users by providing a clean slate for building a personalized operating system tailored to their specific needs. Its rolling release model ensures that users always have access to the most current software, enhancing system security and performance. The combination of the Pacman package manager and the AUR offers a vast selection of software, while the ABS provides the flexibility to customize packages as desired. This user-centric approach, coupled with extensive documentation, makes Arch Linux an ideal choice for those seeking a customizable and up-to-date Linux distribution. Reviewers say compared to Xubuntu, Arch is: - Slower to reach roi - Better at meeting requirements - Easier to do business with Categories in common with Xubuntu: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system) **Compare:** [Xubuntu vs Arch](https://www.g2.com/compare/arch-vs-xubuntu) **Compare Arch with other alternatives:** - [Arch vs Debian](https://www.g2.com/compare/arch-vs-debian) - [Arch vs Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/compare/arch-vs-linux-mint) - [Arch vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/arch-vs-windows-7) - [Arch vs Kubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/arch-vs-kubuntu-devs-kubuntu) - [Arch vs Lubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/arch-vs-lubuntu) - [Arch vs Manjaro](https://www.g2.com/compare/arch-vs-manjaro) - [Arch vs Zorin](https://www.g2.com/compare/arch-vs-zorin) - [Arch vs Pop!_OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/arch-vs-pop-_os) - [Arch vs CentOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/arch-vs-centos) ### 9. [Pop!_OS](https://www.g2.com/products/pop-_os/reviews) By System76 **Average Rating:** 4.5/5 **Total Reviews:** 29 Pop!\_OS is an operating system for STEM and creative professionals who use their computer as a tool to discover and create. Unleash your potential on secure, reliable open source software. Based on your exceptional curiosity, we sense you have a lot of it. Reviewers say compared to Xubuntu, Pop!_OS is: - Better at meeting requirements - Easier to admin - More usable Categories in common with Xubuntu: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system) **Compare:** [Xubuntu vs Pop!_OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/pop-_os-vs-xubuntu) **Compare Pop!_OS with other alternatives:** - [Pop!_OS vs Debian](https://www.g2.com/compare/debian-vs-pop-_os) - [Pop!_OS vs Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/compare/linux-mint-vs-pop-_os) - [Pop!_OS vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/pop-_os-vs-windows-7) - [Pop!_OS vs Kubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/kubuntu-devs-kubuntu-vs-pop-_os) - [Pop!_OS vs Lubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/lubuntu-vs-pop-_os) - [Pop!_OS vs Manjaro](https://www.g2.com/compare/manjaro-vs-pop-_os) - [Pop!_OS vs Zorin](https://www.g2.com/compare/pop-_os-vs-zorin) - [Pop!_OS vs Arch](https://www.g2.com/compare/arch-vs-pop-_os) - [Pop!_OS vs CentOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-pop-_os) ### 10. [CentOS](https://www.g2.com/products/centos/reviews) By CentOS **Average Rating:** 4.4/5 **Total Reviews:** 425 CentOS is a community-driven, free software project that provides a robust and reliable Linux distribution, serving as a foundational platform for open-source communities, cloud providers, hosting services, and scientific data processing. Derived from Fedora Linux, CentOS Stream offers a continuously delivered distribution that tracks just ahead of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), with major releases every three years and each maintained for five years. This structure allows CentOS Stream to function as a production operating system, a development environment, or a preview of upcoming RHEL releases. Key Features and Functionality: - Continuous Delivery: CentOS Stream provides a rolling-release model, delivering updates that precede RHEL's official releases, ensuring users have access to the latest features and improvements. - Community Collaboration: The project fosters a collaborative environment where Special Interest Groups (SIGs) develop and package software tailored to specific needs, such as cloud infrastructure, storage solutions, and virtualization technologies. - Enterprise Compatibility: By closely tracking RHEL, CentOS Stream ensures compatibility and stability, making it suitable for enterprise deployments and development environments. Primary Value and User Solutions: CentOS Stream addresses the need for a stable yet forward-looking Linux distribution that bridges the gap between development and production environments. It offers a reliable platform for developers to test and deploy applications that will be compatible with future RHEL releases, thereby reducing the time and effort required for migration and ensuring smoother transitions. Additionally, the active community and SIGs provide specialized solutions and support, enhancing the overall ecosystem and catering to diverse user requirements. Reviewers say compared to Xubuntu, CentOS is: - Slower to reach roi - Better at meeting requirements - Easier to admin Categories in common with Xubuntu: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system) **Compare:** [Xubuntu vs CentOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-xubuntu) **Compare CentOS with other alternatives:** - [CentOS vs Debian](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-debian) - [CentOS vs Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-linux-mint) - [CentOS vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-windows-7) - [CentOS vs Kubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-kubuntu-devs-kubuntu) - [CentOS vs Lubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-lubuntu) - [CentOS vs Manjaro](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-manjaro) - [CentOS vs Zorin](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-zorin) - [CentOS vs Arch](https://www.g2.com/compare/arch-vs-centos) - [CentOS vs Pop!_OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-pop-_os) --- ## Xubuntu Alternatives FAQs ### How does Xubuntu compare to Debian? According to G2 data, [Xubuntu](https://www.g2.com/products/xubuntu/reviews) and [Debian](https://www.g2.com/products/debian/reviews) are both highly rated Linux distributions with average ratings of 4.4/5 (74 reviews) and 4.6/5 (222 reviews) respectively. Debian leads in key dimensions such as meeting requirements (9.0 vs 8.7), ease of setup (8.7 vs 8.3), ease of administration (8.9 vs 8.1), support (8.4 vs 8.1), and ease of doing business (8.9 vs 8.3), indicating stronger overall usability and management. Xubuntu is praised for its lightweight design, speed, and suitability for older hardware, with 5 mentions highlighting its low resource usage and performance. Debian, meanwhile, is recognized for exceptional stability, reliability, and extensive package management, with 19 mentions of ease of use and 16 mentions each for reliability and stability. Users note Debian's strong community support, security features, and long-term support, making it ideal for servers and production environments. Xubuntu users appreciate its lightweight XFCE desktop environment and Ubuntu ecosystem compatibility but note its more basic and less modern UI and the need for manual customization. Debian users highlight its rock-solid stability and predictable updates but mention its conservative release cycle leading to older software versions and a steeper learning curve for beginners. ### What are the best alternatives to Xubuntu? According to G2 data, the best alternatives to Xubuntu include [Debian](https://www.g2.com/products/debian/reviews) (4.6/5 stars, 222 reviews), [Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/products/linux-mint/reviews) (4.5/5 stars, 189 reviews), [Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/products/windows-7/reviews) (4.2/5 stars, 897 reviews), [Kubuntu](https://www.g2.com/products/kubuntu-devs-kubuntu/reviews) (4.3/5 stars, 96 reviews), [Lubuntu](https://www.g2.com/products/lubuntu/reviews) (4.4/5 stars, 82 reviews), and [Manjaro](https://www.g2.com/products/manjaro/reviews) (4.5/5 stars, 60 reviews). These alternatives are favored for their stability, usability, customization, and support features. ### What features do alternatives offer that Xubuntu does not? Xubuntu's alternatives offer features such as extensive software repositories (Debian with over 59,000 packages), multiple desktop environments with modern and customizable interfaces (Kubuntu's KDE Plasma, Linux Mint's Cinnamon, Manjaro's multiple DEs), rolling release models for continuous updates (Manjaro, Arch), built-in multimedia support and codecs (Linux Mint), Windows compatibility layers (Zorin OS), and enhanced hardware detection and driver support (Manjaro). Additionally, some alternatives provide more polished and modern user interfaces, better out-of-the-box configurations, and integrated tools for productivity and development workflows. ### Which Operating System tools do reviewers recommend instead of Xubuntu? Reviewers recommend alternatives such as [Debian](https://www.g2.com/products/debian/reviews) for its unmatched stability, extensive software repository, and security; [Linux Mint](https://www.g2.com/products/linux-mint/reviews) for its user-friendly interface, multimedia support, and Windows-like experience; and [Manjaro](https://www.g2.com/products/manjaro/reviews) for its rolling release model, hardware detection, and multiple desktop environment options. [Kubuntu](https://www.g2.com/products/kubuntu-devs-kubuntu/reviews) is recommended for users seeking a polished KDE Plasma desktop with strong customization, while [Zorin OS](https://www.g2.com/products/zorin/reviews) is favored for its Windows compatibility and beginner-friendly design. These recommendations highlight alternatives that provide enhanced usability, modern interfaces, and broader feature sets compared to Xubuntu. ### Why do users choose Debian over Xubuntu? Users choose [Debian](https://www.g2.com/products/debian/reviews) over Xubuntu primarily for its superior stability and reliability, as reflected in 16 mentions each for these qualities. Debian's package management system (APT) and vast software repository simplify software installation and maintenance, contributing to efficient system administration. Its conservative release cycle ensures predictable updates, minimizing disruptions, which is critical for production and server environments. Debian also offers stronger ease of administration (8.9 vs 8.1) and setup (8.7 vs 8.3) scores, indicating a more manageable system for experienced users. The extensive community support and comprehensive documentation further enhance its appeal. While Debian's software versions tend to be older due to its focus on stability, users accept this trade-off for the benefit of a rock-solid, secure, and low-maintenance operating system. Additionally, Debian's flexibility and minimal resource usage make it suitable for a wide range of hardware, including older machines. 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