Ubuntu-Based Distros: How They Differ from Ubuntu

Ubuntu-based Linux distributions use Ubuntu as a foundation but can change the desktop, default apps, update schedule, and included tools. This guide helps you compare those differences and choose a version that fits your computer and preferences; you’ll need only a basic idea of what you want from an operating system.

What You’ll Need

A computer that meets the requirements of the distribution you are considering.
An internet connection to check its official download and support information.
If you plan to try it before installing: a USB drive and a way to back up files on the computer.

Step-by-Step

Start with the shared foundation. Ubuntu-based distributions generally use Ubuntu repositories, package formats, and core system components, but the degree of change varies. Many install software through APT and use Debian packages, while some also provide their own repositories or graphical software tools. “Based on Ubuntu” does not mean that every Ubuntu instruction or package will work unchanged.
Identify what is actually different. Compare the desktop environment, default applications, system settings, and any bundled utilities. For example, one distribution may present a familiar, polished desktop, while another may prioritize a lightweight interface or a different workflow. The desktop affects appearance and usability; it does not by itself tell you how frequently the system receives security fixes.
Check the release and support policy. Find the distribution’s current release notes and support page. Check whether it follows Ubuntu’s long-term support releases, uses interim releases, or applies its own schedule. Confirm the end-of-support date for the specific release you would install. A distribution’s update timing can differ from Ubuntu’s even when it shares an Ubuntu base.
Verify hardware support. Look for supported processor architectures, memory and storage requirements, and installation notes for your computer. If you depend on Wi-Fi, graphics, printers, or other peripherals, check whether users report reliable support for that hardware. A live USB session can provide a useful test, but it may not prove that every device or feature will work after installation.
Compare software sources and compatibility. Check how the distribution installs applications: its software center, APT repositories, Flatpak, Snap, or other supported methods. Some Ubuntu-based systems include or enable different sources by default. Before relying on a particular app, confirm that it supports your distribution and release. Avoid adding Ubuntu repositories to another distribution just because both use Ubuntu packages; mixing sources can create dependency conflicts.
Review the project’s maintenance and help resources. Read the project’s documentation, release notes, and support channels. Look for recent maintenance activity and clear instructions for upgrades and security updates. Ubuntu’s documentation may help with shared components, but the derivative’s own documentation is the better reference for its custom tools and policies.
Try it safely before replacing your system. If offered, download an installation image from the project’s official site and verify it using the project’s published checksum or signature instructions. Create a bootable USB with a reputable image-writing tool, then boot from it and choose the live or try option if available. Back up important files first. Do not start an installation or format a drive unless you understand which disk and partitions are selected.
Choose based on your priorities, then keep it updated. Select the distribution whose support period, interface, software choices, hardware compatibility, and documentation suit you. During installation, read disk and encryption options carefully. After installation, use the distribution’s supported update tool and follow its upgrade instructions rather than assuming Ubuntu’s upgrade steps apply.

Common Mistakes

Assuming every derivative is identical to Ubuntu. Shared foundations do not guarantee the same desktop, default repositories, update cadence, or support window.
Mixing software repositories casually. Adding repositories intended for a different Ubuntu release or derivative may replace important packages or make upgrades unreliable. Use sources documented for your exact distribution and release.
Choosing only by appearance. A desktop screenshot says little about release support, hardware compatibility, or how the project handles updates. Check those details before installing.
Skipping backups or disk checks. Installation choices can erase data. Confirm the target drive, save important files elsewhere, and do not proceed if partitioning instructions are unclear.
Using old instructions without checking the release. Menu names, package availability, and upgrade procedures change. Check dates and confirm that a guide applies to your installed distribution and release.

Tips

Write down your priorities before comparing options: long support, a lightweight desktop, familiar tools, or a particular application may matter most.
Compare release notes and support dates for the exact releases, not just the distribution names.
Keep a copy of the installation image and important recovery information until you know the new system works reliably.
When following an Ubuntu command, check whether it changes system repositories or configuration. Prefer the derivative’s documentation for distribution-specific changes.
If you are uncertain, test from a live USB or on a spare computer before replacing a system you depend on.

Troubleshooting

The USB does not boot: Recheck that the image download completed and that the USB-writing tool finished successfully. Try another USB port or drive, and use the computer’s boot-device menu. Firmware settings differ; consult the computer maker’s guidance rather than changing unfamiliar settings at random.

Wi-Fi or graphics do not work in the live session: Connect through Ethernet if available, check the distribution’s hardware documentation, and search its support resources for your device model. A live session may lack a driver that can be installed later, but do not assume installation will solve it.

An application cannot be installed: Confirm that it supports your release and that the correct software source is enabled. Read the complete error message and consult the distribution’s instructions before adding repositories or running commands copied from an unrelated guide.

An upgrade fails or packages conflict: Stop before forcing package changes. Record the error, check whether the system is fully updated, and follow the project’s release-specific recovery guidance. Back up personal files before attempting major repairs or a reinstall.

You cannot tell whether an instruction applies: Check the distribution name, release, and desktop environment shown in system information. Ask in the project’s support channel with those details and the exact error, leaving out passwords and other private data.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an Ubuntu-based distribution the same as Ubuntu?
No. It shares some underlying components, but may use a different desktop, default software, repositories, support schedule, or system tools.

Can Ubuntu applications run on Ubuntu-based distributions?
Many can, especially when they use compatible packages or supported cross-distribution formats. Compatibility depends on the app, release, and software source.

Does Ubuntu’s long-term support automatically apply to derivatives?
No. Check the derivative’s support policy and the end-of-support date for its specific release.

Can I follow Ubuntu tutorials?
Often, for shared features and common commands. For repositories, upgrades, desktop settings, and custom tools, use instructions written for your distribution and release.

Can I switch from Ubuntu to a derivative without reinstalling?
Sometimes a desktop can be added, but changing distributions is not always a clean or supported conversion. A fresh installation is often more predictable; back up your files first.

How should I choose between Ubuntu and a derivative?
Compare support dates, hardware compatibility, desktop preferences, software availability, update practices, and documentation. Try the live session when available before committing.

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

More in this bed

The whole Tech How-To bed →