When choosing a Linux distribution, Linux Mint and Ubuntu often top the list of popular choices. Both are derived from Debian, and both cater to beginner and intermediate Linux users. However, they have different philosophies, desktop environments, and user experiences that can make one better suited for your needs than the other.

So, is Mint better than Ubuntu? The answer depends on what you're looking for in an operating system. In this article, we’ll compare Linux Mint and Ubuntu in various aspects to help you make an informed decision.

Overview of Linux Mint and Ubuntu

What is Linux Mint?

Linux Mint is a Ubuntu-based distribution that focuses on providing a familiar desktop experience with an emphasis on ease of use, simplicity, and elegance. It offers several desktop environments, with Cinnamon being its flagship. Linux Mint is particularly known for its Windows-like interface, which makes it a popular choice for users transitioning from Windows to Linux.

• Latest Version: Linux Mint 21 "Vanessa"
• Desktop Environments: Cinnamon, MATE, Xfce
• Base: Ubuntu LTS (Long-Term Support)

What is Ubuntu?

Ubuntu is one of the most well-known and widely used Linux distributions. Developed by Canonical, it is designed to be a user-friendly Linux distribution with regular updates and long-term support releases. Ubuntu is available with several desktop environments, but its default is GNOME. Ubuntu's user experience focuses on stability, security, and accessibility, making it ideal for both personal and enterprise use.

• Latest Version: Ubuntu 22.04 LTS "Jammy Jellyfish"
• Desktop Environments: GNOME (default), KDE Plasma, Xfce (via flavors)
• Base: Debian

Key Differences Between Linux Mint and Ubuntu

1. User Interface

Linux Mint: Familiar and Customizable

Linux Mint is known for its traditional desktop layout, particularly with the Cinnamon desktop environment. Cinnamon’s interface resembles Windows, making it an excellent choice for users migrating from Microsoft’s ecosystem. The layout consists of a bottom taskbar, application menu, system tray, and desktop icons — all familiar elements for many users.

Mint is also highly customizable. Users can change themes, install different window managers, and tweak the interface to fit their preferences without much hassle.

Ubuntu: Modern and Streamlined

Ubuntu uses the GNOME desktop environment, which offers a more modern and minimalist design. GNOME emphasizes a clutter-free workspace and works well with touch devices, but it may feel less intuitive for those used to traditional desktop environments like Windows. While GNOME is sleek, it is less customizable compared to Cinnamon unless you use extensions and GNOME Tweaks.

For users who prefer more customization and a lighter system, Ubuntu offers flavors like Kubuntu (KDE), Xubuntu (Xfce), and Lubuntu (LXQt).

2. Performance

Linux Mint: Optimized for Older Hardware

Linux Mint generally performs better on low-end or older machines. Cinnamon, while feature-rich, is lighter compared to GNOME, making it more suitable for users with limited system resources. If performance is a top priority, Mint’s Xfce version is even more lightweight, providing a fast and efficient experience.

Ubuntu: Heavier, Especially with GNOME

Ubuntu, with the default GNOME desktop, tends to use more resources. While it runs well on modern hardware, it may feel sluggish on older machines, especially when compared to Mint. However, GNOME's performance has improved in recent releases, and for users with decent hardware, the difference may not be significant.

For a lighter Ubuntu experience, users can opt for Ubuntu flavors like Xubuntu or Lubuntu, which are optimized for performance on older hardware.

3. Software Management

Linux Mint: Flatpak and Synaptic

Linux Mint focuses on ease of use and flexibility in software management. By default, it uses the Synaptic Package Manager, a reliable and familiar tool for managing software, and Flatpak for more modern applications. Flatpak support is built-in, and Mint encourages users to use it over Ubuntu’s Snap packages due to concerns about Snap's performance and privacy.

Ubuntu: APT and Snap

Ubuntu, on the other hand, promotes Snap, a containerized package format developed by Canonical. While Snap provides up-to-date applications and simplifies the packaging process for developers, it has received criticism for its slower performance compared to traditional deb packages. Still, Ubuntu supports both APT (for installing .deb packages) and Snap, giving users multiple ways to install software.

For users who prefer Flatpak or want to avoid Snap, it’s possible to configure Ubuntu to use Flatpak repositories as well.

4. Default Applications and Media Support

Linux Mint: Out-of-the-Box Experience

Linux Mint is designed to be ready for use immediately after installation. It comes pre-installed with a wide array of media codecs, so you can play videos and music without having to install additional software. Mint also includes useful applications like the VLC media player, Firefox, and LibreOffice.

Ubuntu: Minimal, But Expandable

Ubuntu takes a different approach by shipping with fewer pre-installed media codecs due to licensing restrictions. While it includes basic applications like Firefox and LibreOffice, users may need to manually install additional media codecs and software to achieve the same functionality that Mint provides out of the box. However, this minimalist approach can be an advantage if you want to build a lean system from the ground up.

5. Customization and Flexibility

Linux Mint: Highly Customizable

Linux Mint’s Cinnamon desktop is incredibly customizable. Users can easily change themes, install new extensions, and tweak the desktop environment to their liking. With Mint, customization is straightforward, and it provides a familiar workflow for users who prefer a traditional desktop experience.

Ubuntu: Customization via Extensions

Ubuntu’s GNOME desktop, by default, is less customizable. However, with the installation of GNOME Tweaks and various extensions, users can personalize the environment. While this gives flexibility, it’s a bit more complicated than Mint’s out-of-the-box customization options.

6. Community and Support

Linux Mint: Active and Engaged Community

Linux Mint has a large and passionate user base, and its forums are full of helpful guides, tutorials, and troubleshooting tips. While it doesn’t offer professional support options like Ubuntu, the Mint community is highly active and responsive to users' needs.

Ubuntu: Larger Ecosystem and Professional Support

Ubuntu has a larger ecosystem, with extensive official documentation and a massive global user base. Moreover, Canonical provides professional support for enterprises, making Ubuntu a strong contender for businesses looking for professional-grade support alongside open-source software.

Is Mint Better Than Ubuntu?

The answer depends on your specific needs. Linux Mint is often seen as the better choice for users coming from Windows, or for those who need a lightweight, easy-to-use system that performs well on older hardware. It offers excellent out-of-the-box experience with its pre-installed media codecs, a familiar desktop, and a focus on simplicity and efficiency.

On the other hand, Ubuntu is better suited for users who prefer a modern and polished interface, are looking for enterprise-level support, or want to work with advanced server environments. Ubuntu’s large community and support ecosystem also make it a more scalable option for enterprises and developers.