Ubuntu vs Debian

by Gralio Feb 27, 2025

Ubuntu and Debian are both popular Linux distributions catering to different needs. Ubuntu offers a user-friendly experience with readily available applications, while Debian emphasizes stability and customizability. Both are free and open-source, making them cost-effective choices for various use cases.

At Gralio.ai we help to simplify your decision-making process by offering detailed, side-by-side software comparisons like this one, to help you confidently choose the tool that aligns with your business goals.

This comparison was created by analysing 1670 reviews and 59 websites, saving 9 hours, 46 minutes of reading.

Ubuntu

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Debian

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About

Ubuntu is a free, open-source operating system known for its speed and user-friendliness. Popular with developers, Ubuntu offers a secure platform for both daily tasks and professional software development. It boasts a large collection of applications and is compatible with a wide range of hardware, from modern laptops to older computers. Ubuntu also integrates well with enterprise environments, especially with the added support of Ubuntu Pro.

Debian is a free and open-source operating system known for its stability and security. It's like the foundation of a house, providing the core software to run your computer system. Debian offers a wide range of applications and software, making it suitable for various purposes. It stands out for its large, active community of developers who ensure its reliability and provide support.

Summary

Main difference

Ubuntu prioritizes user-friendliness and a wide range of pre-installed applications, making it ideal for beginners and those seeking a smooth out-of-the-box experience. Debian, on the other hand, focuses on stability and flexibility, offering a wider range of software packages and deeper control over the system, which is better suited for advanced users and server environments.

Relative strengths of Ubuntu (compared to Debian)

Easier to use with a more intuitive interface and a large application library.
Faster access to newer software and drivers.
Stronger commercial support available through Ubuntu Pro.

Relative weaknesses of Ubuntu (compared to Debian)

Less stable than Debian, with potential for more frequent updates and occasional regressions.
Less control over the system and fewer customization options.
Snap packages can be slower and less integrated than traditional Debian packages.

Who should use Ubuntu VS. Debian

Ubuntu, a user-friendly and secure open-source OS, is ideal for individuals, developers, and organizations. Praised for its robust software library and ease of use, some users mention occasional driver issues and default data collection practices. Best suited for small to large enterprises.

Debian is a free, open-source OS known for its stability and security. Praised for its flexibility and community support, some users find the installation challenging. A solid choice for users prioritizing control and customization.

Ideal for businesses of all sizes (1-1000+ employees).
Excellent fit for Education and Software/IT/Telecom industries.

Ideal for businesses of all sizes.
A good fit for IT, Media, and Education, with potential in other sectors.

Ubuntu and Debian features

Supported

Partially supported

Not supported

Type in the name of the feature or in your own words tell us what you need

Open-source desktop OS

Supported

Ubuntu is the leading open-source desktop OS, used by millions globally.

Partially supported

Debian is open-source and supports many desktops but might not be number one.
Essential daily apps

Supported

Ubuntu supports Firefox, Chrome, Discord, Steam, and OBS Studio.

Supported

Debian supports these apps but they require manual installation.
Open Source Software

Supported

Ubuntu is open-source, free to use, distribute, and modify, with accessible source code.

Supported

Debian is free to use, distribute, and modify, with publicly available source code.
Driver availability

Supported

Ubuntu offers extensive driver support, including for NVIDIA graphics cards.

Supported

Debian has a wide range of drivers, but proprietary drivers may require manual installation.
Processor compatibility

Supported

Ubuntu supports a variety of processors, including x86 and ARM architectures.

Supported

Debian supports a wide range of processors, from x86 to ARM.
System Configuration

Supported

Ubuntu offers various tools for configuring system settings, from graphical utilities to command-line interfaces.

Supported

Debian supports system configuration through various tools, including debconf and GNOME System Tools.

Qualities

Value and Pricing Transparency

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Customer Service

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Ease of Use

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Reliability and Performance

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Ease of Implementation

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Scalability

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Ubuntu and Debian Pricing

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See full Pricing page

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We couldn't find a pricing page for Debian.

Ubuntu and Debian review insights

Users love

Easy to use and setup.
Robust and stable.
Large software library.
Strong community support.
Customizable and flexible.

Free and open-source.
Strong security features.
Wide range of software options.
Large and active community support.
Stable and reliable.

Users dislike

Limited hardware compatibility.
Default desktop environment can be improved.
Snap packages can be slow.
Default data collection practices.
Occasional driver issues.

Difficult installation process for new users.
Software versions can be outdated.
Limited official support for non-free software and drivers.
Wireless and Bluetooth driver issues can occur.

Ubuntu and Debian Ratings

G2

4.5/5

(1484)
Glassdoor

3.1/5

(373)

G2

4.6/5

(168)
Capterra

4.6/5

(22)

Company health

Employee growth

19% increase in the last year

1% increase in the last year

Web traffic

11% decrease in the last quarter

2% increase in the last quarter

Financing

May 2013 - $13M

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How easy is Ubuntu versus Debian to install for a novice Linux user?

Ubuntu is generally considered much easier to install than Debian for novice Linux users. Ubuntu's installer is more streamlined and user-friendly, often described as closer to a typical Windows or macOS installation experience. Debian's installer, while powerful and flexible, can be more complex and requires more technical knowledge. Users specifically cite Debian's installation process as a difficulty.

Which OS offers better driver support out-of-the-box, Ubuntu or Debian?

Ubuntu offers better out-of-the-box driver support than Debian. While Debian has a wide range of drivers available, it often requires manual installation, especially for proprietary drivers. Ubuntu, on the other hand, includes a broader set of drivers pre-installed and generally handles driver installation more automatically, including for hardware like NVIDIA graphics cards. This makes Ubuntu more user-friendly, particularly for those less experienced with Linux.

What are the advantages of Ubuntu?

Ubuntu advantages include easier setup and use, broader hardware compatibility with pre-built drivers like NVIDIA, and a larger selection of readily available applications for daily use, such as Chrome, Discord, Steam and OBS Studio. While both are open-source and secure, Ubuntu prioritizes user-friendliness, making it more accessible for non-technical users.

What are the disadvantages of Ubuntu?

Ubuntu's disadvantages include limited hardware compatibility compared to some other operating systems, a default desktop environment that some users find could be improved, and snap packages that can be slow. Additionally, some users have concerns about default data collection practices and occasional driver issues.

Alternatives to Ubuntu and Debian

Arch

Arch Linux is a free, open-source operating system primarily designed for experienced computer users. It emphasizes user customization and control, offering a highly flexible and minimal system. Unlike operating systems with pre-installed software, Arch Linux users build their system from scratch, choosing only the components they need. While not as user-friendly as other operating systems, Arch Linux offers greater flexibility and control for users comfortable managing their own system.

Ubuntu Desktop

Ubuntu Desktop is a free and open-source operating system for personal computers. It offers a user-friendly interface, a wide range of pre-installed applications for everyday tasks, and a strong emphasis on security and privacy. Known for its stability and compatibility, Ubuntu Desktop is suitable for both personal and professional use. It is supported by a large and active community that provides help and resources. Ubuntu Desktop can be installed on a wide range of hardware, from older PCs to modern laptops.

Amazon Linux 2

Amazon Linux 2 is a server operating system designed by Amazon Web Services (AWS) for businesses running applications in the cloud. It's reliable, secure, and frequently updated with the latest software. Amazon Linux 2 provides a user-friendly interface and can be easily deployed on various cloud platforms, making it a stable and efficient choice for businesses hosting applications on AWS.

Red Hat Enterprise Linux

Red Hat Enterprise Linux is a stable operating system used by businesses of all sizes. It's known for its flexibility and security, especially important for companies moving operations online. Red Hat offers support, helping your business use this system whether your data is stored locally, or accessed through the cloud.

CentOS

CentOS is a free computer operating system built on top of the popular Red Hat Enterprise Linux. Offering a stable and reliable platform, it's a popular choice for businesses wanting a cost-effective alternative without sacrificing enterprise-grade features. CentOS is ideal for companies looking for a long-term solution, as it's known for its extended support lifecycle and large, active community.

SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop

SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop is a highly secure desktop operating system designed for business use. It offers a complete suite of productivity applications like web browsers, email clients, and collaboration tools. Enhanced security features such as a built-in VPN and antivirus tools protect valuable data. Its adaptability makes it suitable for general desktop use, developer workstations, and industry-specific needs. SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop is designed to integrate seamlessly into mixed environments alongside Windows and MacOS.

Page co-authored by

Michal Kaczor

CEO at Gralio

Michal has worked at startups for many years and writes about topics relating to software selection and IT management. As a former consultant for Bain, a business advisory company, he also knows how to understand needs of any business and find solutions to its problems.

Tymon Terlikiewicz

CTO at Gralio

Tymon is a seasoned CTO who loves finding the perfect tools for any task. He recently headed up the tech department at Batmaid, a well-known Swiss company, where he managed about 60 software purchases, including CX, HR, Payroll, Marketing automation and various developer tools.

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