If you’ve talked to a Linux veteran about the best desktop distribution for new users, you’ve probably heard the name Ubuntu come up. The same goes for server distributions, where Debian often joins the conversation.
Debian and Ubuntu are both solid, free Linux options. There’s no definitive winner between the two. But if you’re looking for something user-friendly, Ubuntu tends to be the go-to choice. Debian shines when it comes to security, as many in the Linux community will tell you. One user on the Debian forums summed it up nicely: “Need handholding? Go with Ubuntu. Want privacy? Use Debian.”
While these two distros share many traits, they also have key differences. Let’s break them down.
What is Debian?
Debian is often called the “Mother of all distributions.” Ubuntu is built on Debian, and countless other distributions derive from it. Ian Murdock launched the Debian project back in August 1993, naming it after his then-girlfriend, Debra Lynn. Fun fact: Debian’s code names come from characters in the Toy Story films, with unstable versions being named after Sid, the kid who wrecked his toys.
What is Ubuntu?
Ubuntu, an operating system developed by Canonical, is also based on Debian. It made its debut in October 2004 with version 4.10, known as Warty Warthog. Ubuntu offers three main editions: a desktop version, a server version, and a core version for IoT.
Both Debian and Ubuntu run on the same package management system—apt and dpkg. Apt is for installing software from repositories, while dpkg is for handling downloaded .deb files. However, Ubuntu includes Snap, a universal package manager, which isn’t default in Debian, though it can be added later.
User Management
When it comes to user management, both systems utilize sudo. Ubuntu automatically adds the initial user to the sudo group, making it more convenient right from the start. In Debian, users have to be manually added to this group. So, if you’re keen on ease of use, Ubuntu has the edge here.
Release Cycle
Ubuntu has two main release types: LTS (Long Term Support), which arrives every two years and offers five years of security maintenance, and regular releases every six months with nine months of support. If you subscribe to Ubuntu Pro, you can get security fixes for a decade. Debian, meanwhile, offers three types: Stable, Testing, and Unstable, with Stable being the recommended option for production. Its release cycle is every two years, but Testing rolls out newer software along the way.
Software Availability
Neither Debian nor Ubuntu focuses on cutting-edge software, but Ubuntu tends to offer newer packages. Updates on Ubuntu happen with you logged in and usually only require a reboot for kernel updates. Debian prioritizes stability and doesn’t push for the latest software.
Debian includes over 63,000 packages, covering everything from web servers to communications tools. Ubuntu’s library spans web browsers, messaging apps, gaming platforms, and productivity tools, all easily accessed through the Ubuntu Software Center.
Supported Platforms
Ubuntu officially supports x86_64, ARM64, PowerPC64, System z, and RISC-V architectures. Debian supports a broader range of architectures, including older systems.
Desktop Environments
Both use GNOME as their default desktop. However, Ubuntu’s GNOME is customized with unique features like a dock. Debian allows users to select their desktop environment during installation, offering options like Xfce, KDE Plasma, and more. Ubuntu also has versions that come with different desktops, like Kubuntu and Xubuntu.
Alternatives
If neither Debian nor Ubuntu meets your needs, consider alternatives like Linux Mint, which offers a more familiar Cinnamon desktop. Fedora, sponsored by Red Hat, focuses on cutting-edge technology. Red Hat Enterprise Linux is known for its enterprise-level security and performance.
As for programming, both Debian and Ubuntu come highly recommended. Users mostly agree there’s little difference for general-purpose development. However, when it comes to speed, Debian often gets the nod as being quicker. Ubuntu can feel heavier due to more default installations and Snap usage.
In summary, the choice boils down to your priorities: Do you value stability and security, or do you want user-friendliness and modern features? Both Debian and Ubuntu are excellent choices for different types of users.
