Kubuntu and Ubuntu are two popular Linux distributions based on Debian. Both share a lot in common but have some key differences. This 2500+ word guide provides an in-depth comparison of Kubuntu vs Ubuntu.
History and Background
Ubuntu is one of the most popular desktop Linux distributions. It was first released in October 2004 by Canonical Ltd. Canonical continues to sponsor and develop Ubuntu to this day.
Kubuntu, on the other hand, is an official Ubuntu flavor featuring the KDE Plasma desktop environment instead of GNOME. It is sponsored by Blue Systems and was first released in October 2005.
So in summary:
- Ubuntu debuted in 2004, created and sponsored by Canonical
- Kubuntu debuted in 2005 as an Ubuntu derivative with KDE instead of GNOME, sponsored by Blue Systems
Release Models
Both Ubuntu and Kubuntu follow consistent, predictable release cycles:
- A new version is released every 6 months – in April and October
- Every two years, in April, an LTS (Long Term Support) version is released
- LTS versions receive security and maintenance updates for 5 years
- Non-LTS versions are supported for 9 months
As of this writing, the latest LTS versions are Kubuntu 22.04 and Ubuntu 22.04, which will receive updates until 2027.
Package Management
Ubuntu and Kubuntu utilize the same APT package management system inherited from Debian. This includes features like:
- Advanced Packaging Tool (APT) for installing, updating, removing software packages
- Ubuntu Software Center providing a GUI interface to APT
- Support for .deb package files
- Access to the same Debian/Ubuntu software repositories and PPAs
In terms of package management, users will find few differences between the two distros. Both make installing and managing software simple.
System Requirements
Since Kubuntu and Ubuntu share the same core foundation, their base system requirements are virtually identical:
- 2 GHz dual core processor (or better)
- 4 GB system memory (RAM)
- 25 GB of hard drive space
- VGA capable of 1024×768 resolution
- Either a CD/DVD drive or a USB port for installation media
With those specs, you should be able to run either OS and most common applications without performance issues. Higher specs will provide better performance of course.
Desktop Environments
The most significant difference between the two distributions is the desktop environment:
- Ubuntu uses GNOME Shell as the default desktop environment.
- Kubuntu uses the KDE Plasma 5 desktop environment.
Both GNOME and KDE are popular open-source desktops. They take differing approaches:
- GNOME puts emphasis on simplicity, ease of use, and streamlined workflows.
- KDE provides more customization options and traditional desktop metaphors. Power users may find it more flexible.
For casual users who want a clean and intuitive interface, Ubuntu‘s stock GNOME desktop has the edge. For users who value customizability and power-user features, Kubuntu‘s KDE setup is a better choice.
Default Applications
Since GNOME and KDE have their own associated application suites, the default software selections in Ubuntu vs Kubuntu vary considerably:
| Application Purpose | Default in Ubuntu | Default in Kubuntu |
|---|---|---|
| Web browser | Firefox | Firefox |
| Email client | Evolution | Kmail |
| Office suite | LibreOffice | LibreOffice |
| Text editor | Gedit | Kwrite |
| Media players | Totem, Rhythmbox | Amarok, Dragon Player |
Again we see theme of Kubuntu catering a bit more to power users, while Ubuntu focuses more on simplicity. But both provide solid application selections.
Ease of Use
Ease of use and user-friendliness have always been hallmarks of Ubuntu. It adopts a very clean and streamlined UI design geared towards Linux beginners. By contrast, KDE and thus Kubuntu provide more complexity and configuration options that beginners may find unintuitive.
So for Linux users who prefer an OS where "everything just works" out of the box, Ubuntu has a clear advantage. Kubuntu assumes a bit more existing Linux/Unix skill and comfort with configuring a desktop environment.
Resource Usage
In the past KDE had reputation for being "bloated" and consuming more system resources than leaner desktops like Xfce and GNOME. But KDE and GNOME have gradually moved closer in resource usage:
- KDE Plasma 5 includes significant performance improvements relative to past versions.
- GNOME itself continues gradually becoming more resource intensive.
Benchmarks show current versions of KDE and GNOME having broadly similar memory and CPU consumption. So Kubuntu vs Ubuntu is largely a draw when it comes to resource efficiency.
For users with very old or underpowered hardware that need to minimize resource load, lighter desktops like Xfce and LXDE are better options on either distro.
Stability and Bugs
In general Ubuntu‘s dedication to usability and "it just works" philosophy gives it an edge in stability. Canonical pours tremendous efforts into QA, bug fixing, and user testing with each release.
That said, as an Ubuntu derivative that inherits the same foundations, Kubuntu is also quite stable in its own right. And the Plasma desktop itself has high standards for reliability and performance.
For most use cases either distro should provide excellent stability and few bugs, on par with proprietary operating systems. But Ubuntu‘s laser focus gives it an incremental advantage.
Support and Documentation
Perhaps Ubuntu‘s greatest asset is its extensive community support and documentation resources:
- Huge support forums and Stack Exchange communities.
- Detailed official documentation guides.
- Numerous books, Youtube channels, blogs/sites dedicated to Ubuntu.
As essentially an Ubuntu spin-off, Kubuntu enjoys some support inheritance. But firsthand documentation tailored specifically to Kubuntu is more scarce. Most resources focus on KDE itself or else generic Linux content.
So users who value abundant community resources will find Ubuntu easier, while self-directed learners who don‘t mind consulting technical manuals will manage fine with Kubuntu.
Conclusion
Ubuntu and Kubuntu have a shared lineage but diverge when it comes to desktop environment, default software selection, and target user base.
For new Linux users and those who prioritize ease of use, Ubuntu provides an easier on-ramp. Its GNOME desktop emphasizes simplicity and streamlined workflow.
But for experienced users who value customization and power-user features, Kubuntu‘s flexible KDE setup is a good fit. And it benefits from the same strong Debian/Ubuntu foundations.
Either distro can serve as an excellent general purpose desktop Linux distribution. Choosing between them depends mainly upon your preferred desktop metaphor and configuration approach. Both Ubuntu and Kubuntu have vibrant communities and bright futures ahead.