elementary OS vs Kubuntu
| elementary OS | Kubuntu | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | No | Yes |
| Free trial | No | No |
| Paid from | — | Free |
| Open source | No | No |
| Platforms | Linux | Linux |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Device types | PCs and Macs; Apple Silicon and Raspberry Pi devices are listed as ARM download targets | Desktop PCs, laptops |
| CPU architectures | Intel or AMD 64-bit; ARM 64-bit | AMD64 (x86-64) |
| Built-in management | AppCenter and System Settings provide app and OS updates; automatic OS updates can be enabled | APT package manager; Discover software browser |
| App compatibility | Curated AppCenter apps; Flatpak sideloading from third-party sources | Applications from Ubuntu archive; Snap packages |
| Deployment models | Installable on physical computers; ISO installation media; OEM installation and custom disk imaging | Physical desktop and laptop installation; live USB installation media |
| Support lifecycle | — | Kubuntu 26.04 LTS receives security and maintenance updates through April 2029; LTS releases are published every two years. |
Both are listed in Best Operating Systems. On Inferse, Kubuntu scores higher on our published basis.