Kubuntu vs. Ubuntu - a comparison

Ubuntu vs. Kubuntu - Both Linux distributions are based on Ubuntu, but differ in their user interface. We will show you what else you should know about the choice of distribution in the following practical tip. Also use our video tip to get more tips on using Ubuntu. This also gives you a first impression of the user interface.

Kubuntu vs. Ubuntu system requirements

First, you should know that Ubuntu is the main Linux distribution. Kubuntu, on the other hand, is an Ubuntu distribution such as Lubuntu and Xubuntu. Kubuntu and Ubuntu, however, have different system requirements compared to the latter two distributions and are accordingly more power-hungry, i.e. designed for computers with faster hardware.

• The minimum requirements for Kubuntu and Ubuntu are 1 GHz x86 processor, 1 GB RAM, 8 GB free hard disk space and 3D-capable graphics.
• Basically, more powerful computers than those with the minimum requirements specified here are recommended for Ubuntu and Kubuntu.

Kubuntu vs. Ubuntu - user interface

The main distinguishing feature of Kubuntu and Ubuntu is the user interface .:

• Ubuntu runs on the UNITY desktop. In contrast to the user interface of Kubuntu, it is not a program collection and should be used with existing GTK + programs.
• It is also characteristic of UNITY that the screen space should be used particularly sparingly, which is also particularly suitable for netbooks.
• Kubuntu uses KDE as a desktop and is therefore more reminiscent of Windows than Ubuntu.
• The setting options for individual screen layout and display are very versatile and individual in both versions.

Kubuntu vs. Ubuntu - standard applications

Kubuntu and Ubuntu are supplied with various standard programs that can be expanded and changed in many ways. Here are the differences:

• For example, Ubuntu uses Nautilus as the file manager, while Kubuntu uses Dolphin.
• Ubuntu uses the standard Rhythmbox player for audio playback, videos are output with totem. Instead, Kubuntu brings Amarok for audio and the Dragon Player for video playback.
• The default preinstalled browser is Firefox in both versions. The Office Suite is also identical to LibreOffice.
• There are also differences in the email client (Ubuntu - Thunderbird; Kubuntu - KMail), the PDF viewer and the text editor. The complete comparison of the supplied programs can be found on ubuntuusers.de.
• However, these are only the programs that are preinstalled. With both operating systems you can install any additional software. Kubuntu supports every program that also runs on Ubuntu.

A comparison between Linux Mint and Ubuntu can be found in another practical tip.