Ubuntu alternatives: 6 apps ranked by verified data
Common reasons people leave Ubuntu: snap packages are pushed by default and can be slow to start, and GNOME with Canonical's tweaks feels less familiar to Windows users than Mint. We ranked 6 alternatives by how directly each one replaces Ubuntu, then by reviews, real visits and how recently each app's facts were checked against its own website. Linux Mint currently ranks first.
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Show all 6 alternativesThe best Ubuntu alternative for…
The highest-ranked app in this list for each need.
Best Ubuntu alternative for most people
Linux MintBuilt on Ubuntu LTS but with a Windows-like desktop, codecs out of the box and no Snap push.
Best Ubuntu alternative for a free option
Fedora LinuxNewer software and stock GNOME or KDE, with Red Hat backing and no Snaps.
Best Ubuntu alternative for a free plan you can upgrade
Zorin OSBuilt on Ubuntu but with Windows- and macOS-style desktop layouts, aimed at people new to Linux.
Best Ubuntu alternative for open source
DebianThe community distribution Ubuntu is built on, with slower, very stable releases and no corporate agenda.
Best Ubuntu alternative for Mac
macOSPolished desktop with commercial app support, if you are happy to buy Apple hardware.
Best Ubuntu alternative for Windows
WindowsWidest software and game compatibility, at the cost of a licence and Microsoft account.
Best Ubuntu alternative for Linux
Linux MintBuilt on Ubuntu LTS but with a Windows-like desktop, codecs out of the box and no Snap push.
Ubuntu alternatives: common questions
What is the best alternative to Ubuntu?
Linux Mint ranks first right now. Built on Ubuntu LTS but with a Windows-like desktop, codecs out of the box and no Snap push. Fedora Linux and Debian follow it in our ranking.
Is there a free alternative to Ubuntu?
Yes. Linux Mint (open source), Fedora Linux (open source), Debian (open source) and macOS (free) have a free option. Check each app's verified facts for current plan limits.
Is there an open-source alternative to Ubuntu?
Yes: Linux Mint, Fedora Linux, Debian and Zorin OS.
Which Ubuntu alternatives work on Linux?
Linux Mint, Fedora Linux, Debian and Zorin OS run on Linux.
Why do people switch from Ubuntu?
The complaints we hear most: snap packages are pushed by default and can be slow to start; GNOME with Canonical's tweaks feels less familiar to Windows users than Mint; interim releases are supported for only nine months.
How is this list ranked?
Every app is scored with the same published formula: how directly it replaces Ubuntu, reviews (weighted by verification), visits from AppBreakup, how recently its facts were checked against its own website, and reader votes.