Which to Use? Ubuntu vs. Xubuntu

At a quick glance of the titles, it is easy to think that Ubuntu and Xubuntu are almost the same. While Xubuntu is based off the regular version of Ubuntu, there are some differences. So which version do you use?

There are a few factors to consider when deciding which version is best to use. According to a BYU-Idaho student, and Linux power-user, “You just have to decide what is more important: eye-candy or performance.” When you start customizing your appearance, you will find that Ubuntu is more customizable than Xubuntu. There are plenty of options to get Xubuntu to look great, but it does seem that Ubuntu is little easier to customize and there are currently more themes available to download.

Speed is another issue. Xubuntu, with its standard settings, is less “bloated” than Ubuntu. Because of this, the response time is much quicker. The difference would probably not be quite as noticeable on a machine with higher specs, but the advantage would show more for people who do not have the newest and most up-to-date machines. Xubuntu is a great option for people who may have a computer that is a few years old, but it is great even on newer machines. Even if the difference is not too noticeable, it is definitely there. One of the main focuses of Xubuntu is that fast start-up time of about a minute to be fully loaded and ready to use.

The last main point that I would like to address is support. Ubuntu is the most commonly used version of Linux systems. Because of this, there is currently more information about Ubuntu than Xubuntu. This means that it is easier to find the help that you may need because it is more likely to find someone who may have experienced the same issue. When searching the web for help, and particularly searching for Xubuntu topics, it is important to watch what results are coming up because sometimes search engines will “correct” your Xubuntu search to Ubuntu results.

As an owner of different types of computers, my advice is to try and use both versions and go from there. Decide whether speed or appearance is most important factor. Also, consider how much support you might need down the road. Don't be of either, because both version are great.