Linux Mint vs Lubuntu
| Linux Mint | Lubuntu | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | No | No |
| Free trial | No | No |
| Paid from | — | — |
| Open source | No | No |
| Platforms | Linux | Linux |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Device types | desktop computers, laptop computers | Desktop PCs and laptops; project homepage also mentions Raspberry Pi |
| Support lifecycle | LTS releases are supported for 5 years; Linux Mint 22.3 is supported until April 2029. | LTS releases are supported for three years; interim releases for nine months. Lubuntu 26.04 LTS is listed as supported until April 2029. |
| Built-in management | Update Manager; centralized software updates | — |
| App compatibility | Software manager; access to software packages; dual-boot installation alongside Windows | Discover Software Center for installing applications; supports common file formats including documents, images, audio, and video |
| Deployment models | Installation on desktop and laptop computers; live USB | Installable desktop operating system; downloadable desktop ISO image |
Both are listed in Best Operating Systems. On Inferse, Linux Mint scores higher on our published basis.