Pop!_OS
Ubuntu, polished for developers, creators and gamers.
Ubuntu review
The default starting point for most newcomers to Linux.
GNOME LTS (6-monthly interims) Easy
At a glance
| Based on | Debian |
|---|---|
| Desktop environment | GNOME |
| Package manager | APT / Snap |
| Release model | LTS (6-monthly interims) |
| Current version | 26.04 LTS "Resolute Raccoon" (2026-04-23) |
| Supported until | April 2031 (10 yrs via Ubuntu Pro) |
| Comfortable minimum RAM | 6 GB |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Official site | https://ubuntu.com |
Pros & cons
What's good
- Huge community — almost every tutorial assumes Ubuntu, so help is easy to find
- Massive software availability and strong hardware support out of the box
- Five-year LTS support with a clear, predictable release cadence
What to watch
- Snap packages are pushed by default and divide opinion
- GNOME is heavier than lightweight desktops on older machines
Advertisement
Who is Ubuntu for?
Ubuntu tends to suit people who want great for beginners, developer workstation, enterprise / server, gaming-friendly. With a difficulty rating of 2 out of 5, it's a comfortable choice even if you've never used Linux before.
Not sure yet? Take the quiz → Compare Ubuntu →
Similar distros
Debian
The rock-solid foundation a huge chunk of Linux is built on.
Linux Mint
The friendliest landing spot for people leaving Windows.