Ubuntu
BeginnerUbuntu is a solid Windows alternative. The most well-known Linux distribution. Huge community, compatible with almost everything.
Information verified on July 7, 2026
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Description
Ubuntu is the most well-known Linux distribution in the world. Its community is huge, meaning every problem already has a documented solution somewhere. The Snap Store simplifies software installation. LTS (Long Term Support) versions receive updates for 5 years. Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu, collects some telemetry (can be disabled). For a first Linux, it's the safe bet.
Key features
- Large community and support
- Excellent hardware compatibility
- Professional software (Steam, Slack)
- Predictable release cycle
- Powerful terminal
- Free and open source
Strengths
- + Very widespread, lots of documentation
- + Broad hardware support
- + Good starting point for switching to Linux
Weaknesses
- − Snap packages can be slower to launch
- − Canonical collects some telemetry (opt-out available)
Recommended for
- First Linux installation
- Users needing maximum hardware and software compatibility
Ubuntu vs Windows: the comparison
| Criterion | Ubuntu | Windows |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free. | Paid (license bundled with the PC) |
| Targeted ads on your data | No | Yes (built-in ads and suggestions) |
| Source code | Proprietary | Proprietary |
| Migration difficulty | Moderate (3/5) | — |
Comparison
Ubuntu has the largest community and excellent hardware support. Linux Mint stays gentler for people coming from Windows. Both share the same software catalog.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Ubuntu cost?
Free.
How do you switch from Windows to Ubuntu?
Estimated difficulty: Moderate (3/5). Standard installation but learning curve. Excellent documentation. Some Windows apps require Wine or alternatives.
Who is Ubuntu for?
Intermediate to advanced users seeking a stable alternative to Windows/macOS. Widely used by developers and in education.