Linux Lite
Free, lightweight Ubuntu LTS-based Linux distribution with an Xfce desktop, aimed at Windows switchers.
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- 5 of 5
- Alternatives ranked
- 5
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- 0
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About Linux Lite
Linux Lite is a free Linux distribution built on Ubuntu's long-term support releases and set up for people coming from Windows. It uses the Xfce desktop with its own theme, and ships with familiar everyday software already installed: Firefox, Thunderbird, LibreOffice, VLC, GIMP and Timeshift for system snapshots. A set of in-house 'Lite' tools handles updates, upgrades between release series and common settings, so new users rarely need the terminal. New point releases arrive on a fixed schedule twice or three times a year, and each major series follows the Ubuntu LTS it is based on, with support lasting several years. It targets older or modest hardware, though current releases ask for a dual-core CPU and 4 GB of memory, which is more than the name suggests. Secure Boot is not supported, so it has to be switched off in firmware before installing. There is no paid edition; the project runs on donations and sponsors. Help comes from forums, a built-in manual and a Discord server.
Best for: Windows users moving an older PC or laptop to a simple, familiar-looking Linux desktop.
Pros and cons
What works
- Based on Ubuntu LTS, so most Ubuntu software and guides apply
- Comes with Firefox, LibreOffice, VLC, GIMP and Timeshift preinstalled
- Predictable, published release roadmap with long support windows
- Own update and series-upgrade tools keep maintenance simple
Why people leave
- Secure Boot is not supported and must be disabled
- Needs 4 GB of RAM, heavier than truly minimal distros
- Small team, so fewer editions and desktops than Ubuntu flavours
Top Linux Lite alternatives
See all 5- 1
Linux Mint68.8The most popular Windows-like Ubuntu-based desktop, with a larger community and Secure Boot support.
- 2
Zorin OS64.8Another beginner-friendly Ubuntu-based distro, with a Lite edition and layouts that mimic Windows or macOS.
- 3
Ubuntu61.8The upstream LTS it is built on, with official support, Secure Boot and a far larger ecosystem.
- 4
Debian59.4A stable, community-run base that can be installed with Xfce for an equally light, less customised system.
- 5
Fedora Linux57.5Offers an official Xfce spin with newer software, for users happy with faster-moving releases.
Why people left Linux Lite
In reviewers' own words, from reviews of the apps they moved to. These are their opinions, not ours.
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Linux Lite: common questions
Is Linux Lite free?
Yes, Linux Lite is free to use.
Is Linux Lite open source?
Yes.
What platforms does Linux Lite run on?
Linux Lite is available for Linux.
What are the best alternatives to Linux Lite?
The highest-ranked Linux Lite alternatives right now are Linux Mint, Zorin OS and Ubuntu. See the full ranked list for pricing, platforms and verified facts.