MX Linux
Efficient and Lightweight
- Resource-efficient
- Customizable
- Great hardware support
- Strong community
- Less software availability
- Not as beginner-friendly
Best for
Efficient desktops
MX Linux vs Ubuntu
MX Linux and Ubuntu are two popular Linux distributions, each offering unique benefits. This page explores their strengths, weaknesses, and best use cases to help you make an informed choice.
Ubuntu
Popular and User-Friendly
- Wide software availability
- Strong support
- Beginner-friendly
- Regular updates
- Heavier on resources
- Occasional stability issues
Best for
General use
TL;DR: Pick MX Linux for efficiency and older hardware. Pick Ubuntu for a user-friendly experience and extensive software support.
Side-by-side comparison
How they stack up across key categories.
Ease of use
Linux
MX Linux offers a straightforward setup with its intuitive MX Tools, though it may require some Linux familiarity.
Ubuntu
Ubuntu is designed with newcomers in mind, featuring a simple installer and a welcoming desktop environment.
Desktop feel
Linux
MX Linux uses the XFCE desktop by default, providing a traditional and lightweight experience.
Ubuntu
Ubuntu features the GNOME desktop, offering a modern and sleek user interface.
Stability
Linux
Based on Debian Stable, MX Linux prioritizes reliability and consistency.
Ubuntu
Ubuntu balances stability with cutting-edge features, though its rapid release cycle can sometimes introduce bugs.
Updates
Linux
MX Linux follows a semi-rolling release model, ensuring stability with periodic updates.
Ubuntu
Ubuntu adheres to a regular release cycle, with new versions every six months and long-term support releases every two years.
Software access
Linux
Offers a curated set of software with additional packages available through Debian repositories.
Ubuntu
Provides extensive software access through Ubuntu Software Center and additional PPAs.
Privacy
Linux
MX Linux does not include telemetry by default, focusing on user privacy.
Ubuntu
Ubuntu has previously included telemetry, though users have the option to disable it.
Community & docs
Linux
MX Linux has a dedicated user community with active forums and helpful documentation.
Ubuntu
Ubuntu boasts a large, diverse community with comprehensive official documentation and numerous online resources.
Gaming
Linux
MX Linux supports gaming through Steam and Lutris, but may require additional setup for optimal performance.
Ubuntu
Ubuntu offers robust gaming support with easy access to Steam and a wide range of gaming tools.
Pros & cons summary
MX Linux
Pros
- MX Linux is known for its resource efficiency, making it ideal for older hardware.
- Offers high levels of customization with tools like MX Tools, which simplifies system tweaks.
- Provides robust hardware support and works well with a variety of devices out-of-the-box.
- Has a strong community presence with active forums and user-contributed documentation.
- Is based on Debian Stable, providing a solid and reliable foundation.
Cons
- The default software repositories are more limited compared to Ubuntu, requiring additional configuration for more software.
- The user interface, while customizable, can be less intuitive for users new to Linux.
- The focus on stability over the latest software can be a downside for those wanting cutting-edge applications.
Ubuntu
Pros
- Ubuntu has a vast software repository and access to the latest applications via PPAs.
- Backed by Canonical, Ubuntu offers professional support services and extensive documentation.
- The user-friendly interface and installer make it an excellent choice for newcomers to Linux.
- Regular updates provide access to the latest features and enhancements.
- Utilizes the GNOME desktop environment, which is known for its modern look and feel.
Cons
- The GNOME desktop environment can be resource-intensive, which might not be ideal for older hardware.
- New releases sometimes introduce unexpected bugs, affecting system stability.
- The focus on new features can sometimes overshadow the need for system reliability.
Which should you pick?
Quick recommendations for common scenarios.
Switching from Windows
Pick: Ubuntu
Ubuntu's user-friendly interface and support make it ideal for Windows switchers.
Following Tutorials
Pick: Either
Both MX Linux and Ubuntu have strong community support and documentation for tutorials.
Older Hardware
Pick: MX Linux
MX Linux is optimized for older systems with its lightweight setup.
Gaming
Pick: Ubuntu
Ubuntu provides better support for gaming with its access to the latest drivers and software.
Work/Professional Use
Pick: Either
Both distros offer stability and a wide range of productivity tools suitable for professional environments.
Simple Daily Desktop
Pick: Either
Both MX Linux and Ubuntu provide reliable and user-friendly experiences for daily computing tasks.
FAQ
Quick answers to common questions.
What is the relationship between MX Linux and Ubuntu?
MX Linux is based on Debian Stable, while Ubuntu is based on Debian Testing. They are separate projects but share Debian roots.
Which is more beginner-friendly, MX Linux or Ubuntu?
Ubuntu is generally more beginner-friendly due to its intuitive GNOME interface and extensive community support.
Which distro offers better performance?
MX Linux is often considered more performant on older hardware due to its lightweight nature, while Ubuntu may be better suited for modern systems.
Can I try these distros before installing?
Yes, both MX Linux and Ubuntu offer live USB options for users to try the OS without installation.
What about software compatibility?
Ubuntu offers more extensive software repositories and access to PPAs, though MX Linux can also access a wide range of applications.
How do these distros handle hardware support?
Both distros provide good hardware support, with MX Linux being particularly effective on older hardware.
What are the release cycles for MX Linux and Ubuntu?
MX Linux follows a semi-rolling release model, while Ubuntu releases a new version every six months, with LTS every two years.
How easy is it to switch between MX Linux and Ubuntu?
Switching between the two is straightforward as both use Debian-based package managers, though user interface adjustments may be needed.
Compare another pair?
Generate a clean "vs" page for any two distros.