Differences between Linux Mint and Ubuntu
Contents
Comparison Article[edit]
Linux Mint vs. Ubuntu
Linux Mint and Ubuntu are two of the most popular desktop Linux distributions.[1] While they share a common foundation, with Linux Mint being based on Ubuntu, they offer distinct user experiences.[1] Ubuntu itself is based on Debian.[2] The choice between them often depends on user preference regarding the desktop environment, software management, and overall philosophy.
Comparison Table[edit]
| Category | Linux Mint | Ubuntu |
|---|---|---|
| Base Distribution | Based on Ubuntu LTS[3] | Based on Debian[2] |
| Desktop Environment | Cinnamon (default), MATE, Xfce[4] | GNOME[5] |
| User Interface Philosophy | Traditional, Windows-like layout[2] | Modern, minimalist workflow |
| Software Management | Prefers APT/DEB packages and Flatpak; avoids Snaps by default[1] | Promotes Snap packages alongside APT/DEB packages |
| Performance | Generally considered lighter, especially on older hardware | Can be more resource-intensive, particularly the default GNOME desktop |
| Default Applications | Includes a suite of Mint-specific tools and pre-installed multimedia codecs[1] | Features a set of core applications with deep integration into the GNOME environment |
| Development Model | Community-driven project supported by donations[3] | Developed and commercially backed by Canonical Ltd.[3] |
Desktop Environment[edit]
The most significant difference between Linux Mint and Ubuntu lies in their default desktop environments.[2] Ubuntu uses a customized version of GNOME, which provides a modern and minimalist interface.[5] It features an activities overview for managing applications and workspaces.
Linux Mint's flagship edition comes with the Cinnamon desktop environment, which was developed by the Mint team. Cinnamon offers a more traditional user experience that may feel familiar to users migrating from Microsoft Windows, featuring a taskbar, a start-menu-like application launcher, and system tray icons.[2] Linux Mint also provides official editions with the MATE and Xfce desktop environments, which are known for being even lighter on system resources.[4]
Software Management[edit]
Both distributions use the APT package management system and can access the vast Ubuntu software repositories. However, their approach to application packaging and software sources differs. Ubuntu has heavily promoted its universal Snap package format, which is integrated into its Software Center.
In contrast, Linux Mint has opted to disable the Snap Store by default and prioritizes traditional DEB packages and the Flatpak format for universal applications.[1] The Linux Mint Software Manager is often described as being faster and lighter than Ubuntu's Software Center.[1] While Mint is based on Ubuntu's repositories, it also maintains its own for Mint-specific applications and to provide certain package versions.
Performance and System Resources[edit]
On modern hardware, the performance difference between the two may be minimal for everyday use. However, Linux Mint, particularly its Xfce and MATE editions, generally consumes fewer system resources than Ubuntu's default GNOME desktop. This can make Mint a preferable option for older or less powerful computers, where it may feel faster and more responsive.
Philosophy and Release Cycle[edit]
The development philosophy behind each distribution also varies. Ubuntu is developed by Canonical, a commercial company that also offers paid professional support.[3][2] It has a regular release schedule with new versions every six months and a Long-Term Support (LTS) version every two years, which is supported for five years.[3]
Linux Mint is a community-driven project that relies on user donations and sponsorships.[3] Its main editions are based exclusively on Ubuntu's LTS releases to prioritize stability over having the latest features.[3] This results in a less frequent release cycle for major versions, but all of Mint's official desktop editions receive the same five-year support period.[1]
References[edit]
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 "itsfoss.com". Retrieved December 28, 2025.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 "redswitches.com". Retrieved December 28, 2025.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 "youtube.com". Retrieved December 28, 2025.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 "wikipedia.org". Retrieved December 28, 2025.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 "serveracademy.com". Retrieved December 28, 2025.
