Every flavor of Ubuntu 26.04 LTS (and where to download it)
From scholars to creators, there's an Ubuntu flavor for everyone out there.
Today's release of Ubuntu 26.04 LTS is actually several releases. You have several official flavors of Ubuntu to choose from, each with their own unique approach to computing and target user.
If you're in the market to switch to a Linux distro that uses one of the most popular and reliable package bases out there, here's a quick summary of each of your options.
Ubuntu: The tried and true classic
What makes it different: Ubuntu is a general purpose operating system that's meant to appeal to anyone and everyone. The desktop edition (what you'd use if you aren't a server admin) uses the GNOME environment, which looks something like a cross between macOS and Android.
Who it's for: Anyone who wants a mature and well-supported desktop or server environment.
Edubuntu: Ubuntu gone academic
What makes it different: Edubuntu uses the same desktop environment as regular Ubuntu but comes with a bunch of educational software that's useful for learning to code, writing essays, practicing math, and more. There are even educational games to keep you entertained as you learn.
Who it's for: Students and educators who don't want to rely on Windows or Mac as their digital academic setting.
Kubuntu: A more Windows-like experience
What makes it different: Kubuntu 26.04 LTS uses the KDE Plasma desktop environment to create an experience that won't feel different to someone who's used to Windows 10. It's packed with power tools and modernized features like automatic dark mode.
Who it's for: Power users and folks who preferred Windows 10 over Windows 11.
Ubuntu Budgie: A bold new design
What makes it different: Ubuntu Budgie is a general purpose OS that uses a desktop environment emphasizing elegance. It might feel similar to macOS, and like Kubuntu, there are a lot of applets and power user features.
Who it's for: Anyone who wants an attractive desktop environment with a macOS-like launchpad.
Ubuntu Cinnamon: Windows 7, modernized
What makes it different: Ubuntu Cinnamon is notable because it explicitly describes itself as a Windows 7-like environment. It has its own ecosystem of applets called "spices" to make customizing and adding capabilities to your desktop easy.
Who it's for: For anyone who preferred how Windows felt around the year 2010.
Ubuntu Kylin: Chinese-focused Ubuntu
What makes it different: While most Ubuntu flavors are English-first operating systems, Ubuntu Kylin caters to the Chinese market of Ubuntu users. It has input methods and calendars that will fit in with other OSes in China.
Who it's for: Anyone who speaks Chinese, or who wants to learn Chinese through immersion.
Ubuntu Studio: A lightweight but traditional experience
What makes it different: Ubuntu Studio uses the same desktop environment as Kubuntu, but it's chock-full of creator tools like video editors, graphic design platforms, and audio mixing software. It also uses a special kernel designed for lower latency.
Who it's for: People producing media like videos, graphics, and podcasts.
Ubuntu MATE: A throwback desktop experience
What makes it different: Ubuntu MATE uses an older design motif that recalls the days of Windows XP and is similarly light on resource requirements.
Who it's for: Those who have lower-powered PCs and liked Windows before the Vista and 7 changes.
One caveat: Ubuntu MATE wasn't able to meet the requirements for an LTS release. While there is a 26.04 update, it won't be supported for as long as others on this list.
Ubuntu Unity: Elegant and unique
What makes it different: Ubuntu Unity's desktop, like Ubuntu Budgie, emphasizes looks with an elegant style. It has some unique productivity features like a heads-up display and a global menu.
Who it's for: Those who want an attractive interface and like trying new desktop experiences.
One caveat: Like Ubuntu MATE, Ubuntu Unity wasn't able to meet the requirements for an LTS release. While there is a 26.04 update, it's long term support isn't fully backed by Ubuntu.
Xubuntu: No juice, no problem
What makes it different: Xubuntu uses a different desktop environment than all the rest (called Xfce), and it specializes in efficient use of hardware. It won't win any beauty contests, but you can run it on that laptop you bought back in 2010.
Who it's for: People reviving old PCs.
Those are all the Ubuntu flavors that are getting Resolute Raccoon updates. I'll be upgrading my Kubuntu laptop as soon as I can.
