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ZDNET’s primary findings
- I’ve thoroughly evaluated Ubuntu and Fedora 44 over an extended timescale.
- Both utilize the GNOME DE, although one incorporates numerous custom features.
- Both distributions are free and appropriate for practically every user.
For those who’ve considered delving into the Linux world or are contemplating switching between distributions, you’ve probably encountered both Ubuntu and Fedora. These two distributions are major players in the Linux landscape and have maintained excellent standings for quite some time.
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Nevertheless, these two versions of Linux differ significantly in multiple respects, to the extent that picking one over the other could significantly shape your Linux experience.
Let’s examine each of these Linux distributions and figure out which one could work best for you.
What characterizes Ubuntu 26.04?
Ubuntu 26.04 (also known as Resolute Raccoon) represents the most recent version of the well-established distribution built on Debian and employing a tailored version of the GNOME desktop environment. The initial detail you should note about this latest release is that it constitutes a Long-Term Support (LTS) version, supported through April 2031.
With this distribution, you’ll receive security updates and critical bug resolutions for five years. You can prolong that support period to ten years through a Ubuntu Pro subscription, but five years represents a substantial length of time for operating system support.
Setting aside support considerations, let’s address what truly matters: usability. Since Ubuntu tends to rank high among distributions ideal for newcomers, what accounts for this reputation?
It starts (as it should) with the desktop.
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As referenced, Ubuntu employs a customized version of the GNOME desktop environment. What I value most about Ubuntu’s approach is its consistency. Today’s Ubuntu closely resembles the version from a decade ago. That continuity preserves user familiarity.
Back in 2017, Canonical opted to discontinue the Unity desktop it had developed internally. When they did so, they made the wise decision to adapt the GNOME desktop to closely mirror Unity’s appearance and functionality. That consistency keeps users loyal.
However, one area of frequent criticism with the Ubuntu desktop is that, while it may feel natural to previous Ubuntu users, it seems quite unfamiliar if you’re transitioning from either Windows or MacOS. Rather than a horizontal bottom panel, you encounter a vertical panel along the left side. The positive aspect is that you can reposition that panel from Settings > Ubuntu Desktop > Position On Screen.
Repositioning the Ubuntu panel is straightforward.
Jack WallenZDNET
You can even transform the panel into a dock with a simple toggle, making the interface more closely resemble MacOS. Due to this flexibility, it doesn’t matter whether you’re coming from Windows or MacOS, you’ll feel perfectly at home.
What Ubuntu 26.04 provides to users
Ultimately, it comes down to three essentials:
- ease of use
- dependability
- affordability
Ubuntu 26.04 performs admirably across all three areas. Because of the desktop’s adaptability, it serves all user types effectively. Its Debian foundation ensures rock-solid reliability. And it’s free, so it doesn’t get more affordable than that.
As previously mentioned, one consistent feature you can depend on with Ubuntu is familiarity. Since Canonical hasn’t introduced any drastic desktop changes, you can expect that pattern to continue for years ahead.
Who benefits from Ubuntu 26.04?
If you’re new to Linux, Ubuntu is an outstanding option. If you’ve been using Linux briefly and aren’t satisfied with your current distribution, Ubuntu is a strong next choice. If you’ve been using Linux for years, Ubuntu will feel immediately recognizable and versatile enough to accommodate most needs.
Put simply, Ubuntu 26.04 serves virtually everyone.
What defines Fedora 44?
Fedora has long been categorized as a “bleeding edge” distribution, but I no longer accept that label entirely. As many long-term Fedora users would affirm, it’s more accurately a “leading edge” distribution, since it prioritizes both innovation and stability. You receive the most recent versions of user-facing software while preserving a highly stable foundation. And since Fedora ships with a relatively unmodified GNOME, you benefit from the reliability of one of the most trusted desktop environments available.
Additionally, the pairing of Fedora and GNOME results in an exceptionally fast desktop operating system. Fedora 44 does for modern hardware what a distribution like Xubuntu does for older machines — makes it perform beyond expectations.
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As mentioned, Fedora 44 incorporates the GNOME desktop environment, having done so for many years. Unlike Ubuntu, Fedora doesn’t alter the desktop; you receive GNOME exactly as designed. That can be challenging for some users, since GNOME differs considerably from the Windows and MacOS environments people have been accustomed to.
Rather than a panel/system tray, you get an application overview and a top bar. The positive side is that once you begin using GNOME, it becomes entirely logical and you’ll discover it’s remarkably efficient. GNOME stays out of your way, allowing you to concentrate on what matters.
Naturally, if you wish to personalize your Fedora desktop, you can install various GNOME Extensions to tailor it to your preferences.
By adding one extension (Dash to Dock), the Fedora desktop already appears more recognizable.
Jack WallenZDNET
You might assume that, given both distributions use the GNOME DE, they would be fairly similar. At first glance, they are not, but when you open the application overviews, you’ll notice they are quite similar. The distinction lies in how you reach the overview.
Who benefits from Fedora 44?
In the past, I wouldn’t have recommended someone new to Linux attempt Fedora. These days, I’ve reconsidered that position. Certainly, the desktop is different from what Windows and MacOS users have been accustomed to, but anyone who has used a smartphone should find Fedora/GNOME manageable.
I also used to believe that the APT (Ubuntu) and DNF (Fedora) package managers were quite different and that APT was significantly more user-friendly. However, the reality is, both have robust GUI frontends, so there’s no need to launch a terminal window and install applications via command line.
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In my assessment, Fedora 44 is perfect for anyone seeking an incredibly fast, highly dependable operating system that integrates the latest software while upholding a superior level of stability.
Which should you choose?
When you move past all the technical specifics, it ultimately comes down to this: Which version of GNOME suits you best? If you prefer a desktop that can be rapidly modified to more closely resemble your previous experience, choose Ubuntu. If, alternatively, you appreciate the concept of a streamlined desktop that stays out of your way (or can be extensively personalized with third-party extensions), then Fedora is your best bet.
Regardless, both distributions are dependable choices.
