Ubuntu Server vs Xubuntu
| Ubuntu Server | Xubuntu | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | No |
| Free trial | Yes | No |
| Paid from | $2.08/mo | — |
| Open source | No | No |
| Platforms | Linux, self-hosted | Linux |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Device types | servers, virtual machines, cloud instances, IoT/edge devices | desktop computers |
| CPU architectures | amd64, arm64, armhf, ppc64el, riscv64, s390x | x86_64 (Intel or AMD 64-bit) |
| Support lifecycle | LTS: five years standard security maintenance; Ubuntu Pro extends coverage to 10 years, with Legacy add-on extending it to 15 years. | Regular releases: 9 months; LTS releases: 3 years |
| Built-in management | Landscape centralized estate management; Kernel Livepatch; security updates and hardening | Software Updater; Software & Updates settings; Software Center |
| App compatibility | Ubuntu package repositories (Main and Universe); cloud images; server ISO installation | APT/DEB packages, Snap, Flatpak, AppImage, PPAs |
| Deployment models | physical server, virtual machine, public/private/hybrid cloud, cloud image, IoT/edge device | Installed on compatible computers; live USB/DVD trial |
Both are listed in Best Operating Systems. On Inferse, Ubuntu Server scores higher on our published basis.