Lightweight Ubuntu Alternatives

The best alternative to Ubuntu is Linux Mint, which is both free and Open Source. If that doesn't suit you, our users have ranked more than 100 alternatives to Ubuntu and loads of them are so hopefully you can find a suitable replacement. Other interesting alternatives to Ubuntu are Debian, Manjaro Linux, Fedora and Kubuntu.

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Ubuntu alternatives are mainly Operating Systems, but if you're looking for Linux Distros or Mobile OSs you can filter on that. Other popular filters include Lightweight and Linux Distros. These are just examples - use the filter bar below to find more specific alternatives to Ubuntu.
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Alternatives list

  1. Linux Mint icon
     1196 likes

    Linux distribution focused on desktop use, with unique menus, media codecs, browser plugins, and DVD support pre-installed; offers easy package management, compatibility with Ubuntu repositories, and a Debian-based alternative for consistency and reliability.

    188 Linux Mint alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Platforms

    • Linux
     
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    14
  2. Debian icon
     1182 likes

    The Debian Project is an association of individuals who have made common cause to create a free operating system. This operating system that we have created is called Debian.

    206 Debian alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Platforms

    • Windows
    • Linux
    • BSD
    • Self-Hosted
     
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    12
  3. Manjaro Linux icon
     336 likes

    Manjaro is a user-friendly Linux distribution based on the independently developed Arch operating system. Within the Linux community, Arch itself is renowned for being an exceptionally fast, powerful, and lightweight distribution that provides access to the very latest cutting...

    185 Manjaro Linux alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Platforms

    • Linux
    • Arch Linux
     
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    8
  4. Fedora icon
     619 likes

    Fedora creates an innovative, free, and open source platform for hardware, clouds, and containers that enables software developers and community members to build tailored solutions for their users.

    189 Fedora alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Platforms

    • Linux
     
    |
    9
  5. Kubuntu icon
     292 likes

    Kubuntu is an official "flavor" of Ubuntu that uses the KDE Plasma desktop environment. This gives it a completely different look and feel.

    210 Kubuntu alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Platforms

    • Linux
     
    |
    6
  6. Arch Linux icon
     797 likes

    Arch Linux is an independently developed, x86_64 optimized GNU/Linux distribution targeted at competent Linux users. It uses pacman, its home-grown package manager, to provide updates to the latest software applications with full dependency tracking.

    205 Arch Linux alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Platforms

    • Linux
     
    |
    4
  7. Xubuntu icon
     295 likes

    Xubuntu is an elegant and easy-to-use operating system. Xubuntu comes with Xfce, which is a stable, light and configurable desktop environment. It is based on Ubuntu Debian Linux.

    183 Xubuntu alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Platforms

    • Linux
     
    |
    3
  8. Lubuntu icon
     247 likes

    Lubuntu is a fast and lightweight operating system with a clean and easy-to-use user interface. It is a Linux system, that uses the minimal desktop LXDE/LXQT.

    185 Lubuntu alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Platforms

    • Linux
     
    |
    3
  9. Zorin OS icon
     153 likes

    Linux-based OS designed for familiar user experience, mimicking Windows or macOS, supports dual-boot, runs Windows apps via WINE, pre-installed essential software, customizable desktop layouts, broad hardware compatibility, and privacy-focused updates.

    191 Zorin OS alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Freemium
    • Open Source

    Platforms

    • Linux
     
    |
    3
  10. elementary OS icon
     354 likes

    elementary OS is a free, fast and aesthetically pleasing operating system based on Ubuntu .

    203 elementary OS alternatives

    Cost / License

    Platforms

    • Linux
     
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    6
  11. CachyOS icon
     52 likes

    CachyOS is designed to deliver lightning-fast speeds and stability, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable computing experience every time you use it. Whether you're a seasoned Linux user or just starting out, CachyOS is the ideal choice for those looking for a powerful...

    77 CachyOS alternatives

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Platforms

    • Linux
     
  12. EndeavourOS icon
     69 likes

    EndeavourOS is an Arch-based distro that provides an Arch experience without the hassle of installing it manually for both x86_64 and ARM systems. After installation, you’re provided with a lightweight and almost barebones environment ready to be explored with your terminal...

    Cost / License

    Platforms

    • Linux
     
    |
    1
12 of 76 Ubuntu alternatives