Ubuntu or Debian - comparison of Linux systems
There are many Linux distributions. Whether Debian or Ubuntu suits you mainly depends on your wishes and knowledge. We compared the two operating systems for you and help you make the decision.
Ubuntu: For beginners, mobile platforms, cutting-edge software
Ubuntu stands out with ease of use and the latest software. A big plus is certainly the development towards mobile devices.
- Hardware compatibility: In addition to the usual 32- and 64-bit desktop systems, Ubuntu primarily targets mobile devices as a platform for its own distribution.
- Installation: The installation is designed to be carried out quickly and easily with as little user input as possible. However, there is also an expert mode, in which you can access all setting options as with the installer of Debian.
- Desktop interface: Ubuntu trusts Unity, a desktop developed by Canonical, for the desktop interface. This is characterized above all by the growing development towards mobile devices. However, you can also optionally use the standard repertoire of the GNOME 3 desktops.
- Software: The software that was developed for Debian is almost always compatible with Ubuntu. The software for Ubuntu is often newer and more up-to-date than that for Debian, since versions that are not fully tested (so-called nightly builds) are also released.
- Developer forums: Ubuntu has clear rules of conduct in its forums. A community council and the tech board are elected annually. Even if this initially appears to be very democratic, the Ubuntu founder has a permanent seat on both councils and a veto right.
Debian: For advanced users, PowerPCs and servers, software stability
As the more technical candidate, Debian compares the distributions. The distribution convinces with full control and absolute software stability.
- Hardware compatibility: Debian now supports more than 10 hardware architectures, from the standard 32 and 64 bit desktop systems to PowerPCs.
- Installation: The Debian Installer does not offer a nice graphical UI, but from the beginning all possible settings and gives you the choice to integrate your own installation packages. This gives you a system that is perfectly tailored to you and your needs. But don't worry: Contrary to its old reputation, Debian can now also be installed with default values.
- Desktop interface: So far, Debian still uses the GNOME 3 desktops. You can choose between KDE, Gnome and many more.
- Software: Apart from Unity, almost any software developed for Ubuntu is also available for Debian. However, you should note that Debian often only releases stable builds (finished, tested versions of a program), which can increase the waiting time for new versions.
- Developer forums: In the Debian forums, almost everything is discussed down to the smallest detail. In addition, a vote is taken on all decisions that affect performance.
We explain on the next page how to install Ubuntu on your PC.