Ubuntu and Linux Mint are two popular Linux distributions available free of charge. Ubuntu is derived from Debian and, on the other hand, Linux Mint is based on the Ubuntu LTS.
Both versions of the operating system are a great choice for a beginner and support a wide range of modern devices, but there are some differences between them, due to which many users want to compare these OSs to find the right criteria for choosing.
Having described these distributions, you should dwell on the decisive factors for comparing Linux Mint and Ubuntu. This will help you if you are a new Linux user or want to switch to this shell from Windows or MacOS and are trying to find a better alternative.
Linux Mint is actually based on Ubuntu, and the latter has Debian at its core. Therefore, if you use one of these platforms, you actually use their predecessor to some extent.
Debian is perhaps one of the oldest versions of Linux, launched in 1993 when Microsoft released Windows 3.1.
Linux Mint is comparatively younger than Ubuntu, which is not surprising since it is based on this platform. The system debuted in 2006 based on an iteration of Ubuntu KDE (also known as Kunbuntu). As with Ubuntu, it is updated twice a year, usually a month after updating its predecessor.
While Canonical oversees Ubuntu, Linux Mint relies on individual users and companies using the OS.
Linux Mint or Ubuntu - which one is better?
The best Linux distributions are designed for two categories of users. One group is those who are tech savvy, know a lot about systems and computers, and now want to explore Linux for the first time, preferring the development of open source software.
On the other hand, there is another category of users who knows little about Linux, but wants to install a new version of the OS on old hardware to give it a “new life”, or plans to switch from Windows or Mac and get a taste of freedom. These people have no interest in Linux settings or configurations, and they just want a better and smoother computer experience.
The core of both systems: what are the differences?
Before deciding whether to choose Linux Mint or Ubuntu, it is worth learning more about the kernel of each of the shells. Both distributions are based on the Debian system and, according to reviews, have much in common. However, they chose a different path to meet the needs of users. Linux Mint is trying to be a great alternative to Windows, and Ubuntu is more competitive with the Mac system.
The similarities between them are as follows: you can make these Linux distributions the way you want with a few tips and tricks, and this is the beauty of this operating system - ensuring freedom in everything.
System requirements
Both systems run on a wide variety of devices, but Ubuntu requires a bit more power than Linux Mint. The Ubuntu Gnome version offers stylish modern design and stunning visual effects, and Linux Mint is a bit old-fashioned and works on both modern and old hardware. If the first OS requires more energy and resources, then the second one needs a little less.
System installation process
The methods for installing both distributions are the same and simple. Linux Mint and Ubuntu support the installation method of Ubiquity and UEFI. This is not as simple as installing Windows or OS X, but it does not cause too many difficulties, even for beginners. During the installation, prompts and reminders constantly appear, and all this is done through a graphical interface.
You can download both systems to your device using a flash drive and use them as a live distribution. This means that you do not even need to install them on your hard drive - you can use them directly from removable media.
Base interface
Linux Mint comes with various Linux desktop environments, but by default it is Cinnamon. This DE is more like a Windows interface with a bottom panel, a start menu at the bottom left and a system notification on the right. You can see all active application windows on the bottom panel.
Ubuntu, on the other hand, comes with a default version of Unity (similar to the Gnome interface). In addition, the OS can be preinstalled with various working environments, such as Budgie, KDE, XFCE, etc. The system displays a common panel on the right, and a top panel consisting of a notification area and application window integration. You can find all active applications in the dock panel. With Ubuntu Gnome Tweak Tools, you can move it either down or to the left with a few settings.
Performance
When discussing the performance of both distributions, Linux Mint will be ahead of Ubuntu. The Ubuntu version, according to reviews, is best suited for modern devices equipped with upscale equipment. On the contrary, Linux Mint works fine on older hardware, and can also run on new hardware. If you want to “revive” your very old laptop, reviews recommend using Lubuntu or Xubuntu.
Software manager
Both shells come with a complete software management system. The Ubuntu Application Center (Software center) seems slower and requires significant download resources. By comparison, the Linux Mint software manager is fast, easy, and simple. Both distributions provide different software in different categories, which allows users to easily select the right application.
Software tools with useful options
Linux Mint and Ubuntu come with software tools. Or there is a source code manager. At the same time, the version that is preinstalled in Linux Mint works much better and offers more opportunities for beginners. So, sometimes beginners get confused with PPA repositories when installing third-party Linux software. Thus, choosing to reset these defaults is very convenient in this situation.
Linux Mint excels by offering such reset options. In addition, this system has a separate PPA management tab for easy configuration. Additionally, the OS makes it possible to automatically solve various common update problems in the service tab. Ubuntu lacks all of these useful options.
Necessary software out of the box
What do new users want to do right after installing any OS? Having installed the system, you may want to enjoy movies and music, perform some performance task in the office, browse the web, or perform photo editing. All this is a basic requirement for any user.
Both shells come with a set of standard performance applications. However, these distributions also lack some aspects. Both systems do not have a media codec or Adobe Flash if you did not select it during the installation of Ubuntu. The application center will help you solve this problem, but it will take some effort from you. What do you have to do in this situation?
The Ubuntu package, which consists of all the necessary media codecs and flash memory, exists and is called Ubuntu Restricted Extras. However, you will not just have to download it from the software center. You will have to run the command in the terminal to install it. Initially, this process may seem a bit complicated for new users. On the other hand, Linux Mint also does not come with a media codec, but it is easy to find in the software center.
Moreover, Linux Mint offers the best software, such as VLC, and pre-installed GIMP, which Ubuntu does not provide by default. You can install it later, but it will take extra effort.
So is Linux Mint or Ubuntu better when it comes to affordable applications? According to reviews, Ubuntu still lags behind the competitor without providing some important programs pre-installed by default.
GUI
Linux Mint vs Ubuntu: where is the best GUI? According to Linux reviews, Mint offers a better configuration option than Ubuntu. Although installing it in Ubuntu is quite simple, you will need a separate Ubuntu Gnome Tweak Tool to get more options for customizing themes and icons.
Linux Mint, on the other hand, comes with a handful of nice community-driven themes, pre-installed applets and desktops. If you intend to use Ubuntu, you will have to search for the best themes and icons on the Internet, download the zip file and install it. Ubuntu also does not support Linux Mint settings, both applets and descriptors, and widgets.
System Setup
Linux is impressive in terms of customization. You can do whatever you want in this system. This will allow you to enjoy the freedom of customization. Ubuntu and Linux Mint also keep up with this criteria.
Nevertheless, Ubuntu offers you to make a choice according to some preferences, and this is much more than “what you see is what you get” in the Linux Mint setup. At the same time, both distributions allow you to change the system, starting with icons, menus, file system, window management, etc.
Various desktop environments
Ubuntu and Linux Mint come with different versions of desktops. Recently, developers have abandoned the use of KDE development. Ubuntu, on the other hand, supports a wide range of Linux desktop environments, including Ubuntu Gnome (by default), KDE Plasma, LXDE, Budgie, MATE, and Xfce. Linux Mint now supports the Cinnamon, MATE, and Xfce workspaces. So in this category, Ubuntu goes ahead of Linux Mint.
Software and system updates
Both Linux distributions provide a universal way to upgrade your application and system to the latest version. Ubuntu has a software update utility that checks the latest versions of programs and system images with one click.
Linux Mint also provides a similar upgrade tool. In addition, you can also update your installed Linux software through a dedicated software center for all distributions. Through it, for example, you can easily launch the Russian version of Linux Mint 19.
Release and Support Cycle
Every six months, Ubuntu releases a new version, and every two years it releases a version of LTS - Long Term Support. Each LTS is supported by developers for five years for computer and server systems. Thus, the release cycle of each new Ubuntu system is planned. Reviews of Ubuntu suggest that it’s very convenient for users.
However, Linux Mint developers do not plan the year and month of the update. Instead, they provide a new version a few months after Ubuntu releases its next LTS.
Corporate or business use
Worldwide, a significant portion of the servers are running Linux, most of which are Ubuntu. Moreover, many public services in different countries, including China, are transferring their official electronic system to Linux and, in particular, to Ubuntu. In addition, Ubuntu developers collaborate with many PC manufacturers, and it comes preloaded on desktop computers and laptops.
Linux Mint, on the other hand, is more enthusiastic. Apparently, the developers of the OS did not make any efforts to promote their system in the corporate or business world. However, the system is perfectly honed and can replace any OS or distribution for any users.
What about games?
Linux Mint and Ubuntu will have the same gaming features. However, since the first one consumes less resources, launching various games will give a little more performance than the second. Ubuntu, on the other hand, is an excellent choice for modern hardware, so game performance will be increased with fewer compatibility issues. According to user reviews, the gameplay will be more or less the same in both systems.
Communities and Support
In terms of support, Ubuntu is far ahead of Linux Mint. Ubuntu is supported and developed by a large corporate company, Canonical, and also has a huge base of fans and support groups around the world. Linux Mint is also not far behind. Many community groups around the world and companies using this OS also act as partners, developers or sponsors for development. This is where Linux Mint differs from Ubuntu.
Who will win the rivalry?
According to numerous reviews, many people really like Ubuntu, but the same users often cannot say that they absolutely dislike Linux Mint.
Therefore, you just need to know what factors you should consider when choosing the right Linux distributions for beginners. If you are a new user, it is recommended that you use both operating systems and try to find out which one suits your desires and needs. It is worth noting that Linux Mint and Ubuntu are very popular in the Linux community and offer a wide range of software compatibility.
If you are a user of MS Windows, it is better to switch to Linux Mint, which will give you a familiar working environment that you can immediately use. But if you are tech savvy, you'd better choose Ubuntu, as it offers an amazing and sleek system for your latest hardware.
Can I use both distributions at the same time?
If you wish, you can use “dual boot” to install both systems at the same time. When you boot your computer, just select one of them.
Is it possible to test each OS before using it?
First, you can explore some demos, videos, screenshots, and online reviews. If you want to personally try the distributions, you can use VirtualBox or similar software and use the virtual (temporary) installation. You can also use a Live CD / USB and test each OS on your computer and decide which one you will use.
Can these systems be used with programs for Windows?
If you are new to Linux but still want to use some Windows applications, you can configure Wine and run the applications locally. In addition, you can resort to services such as CloudDesktopOnline.com or Apps4Rent, which offers a virtual server for applications such as SharePoint and Exhange.