Lubuntu

Lubuntu is the lightest of all official Ubuntu flavors, using the LXQt desktop environment. It is designed specifically for machines with very limited resources — even computers that are over a decade old can run it smoothly.

Key Features

• Lowest Resource Usage: Idle memory consumption of only about 300 MB, the most efficient official Ubuntu flavor
• LXQt Desktop: Lightweight desktop based on the Qt framework with high rendering efficiency
• Fast Boot: From power-on to a usable desktop in just seconds
• Simple and Practical: No unnecessary visual effects, focused on core desktop functionality
• Full Ubuntu Compatibility: Can install all applications from Ubuntu software repositories

System Requirements

Installation

Option 1: ISO Image Installation

Visit the Lubuntu website  to download the 26.04 LTS ISO image. Lubuntu uses the Calamares installer, which has a clean and friendly interface.

Option 2: Install on Existing Ubuntu

sudo apt update
sudo apt install lubuntu-desktop

After installation, log out and select the LXQt session at the login screen.

Basic Usage

Desktop Layout

Lubuntu uses a classic desktop layout:

• Bottom Panel: Contains application menu, taskbar, system tray, and clock
• Desktop Icons: Files and shortcuts can be placed on the desktop
• Right-click Menu: Right-click the desktop for quick access to common functions

Application Menu

Click the menu button in the lower-left corner to see applications grouped by category:

• Accessories
• Education
• Graphics
• Internet
• Multimedia
• Office
• System Tools

PCManFM-Qt File Manager

PCManFM-Qt is LXQt’s default file manager with these features:

• Extremely fast startup
• Multi-tab browsing
• Split-pane view
• Built-in terminal panel (press F4)
• Bookmarks and quick access

Keyboard Shortcuts

Default Applications

Optimization Tips

Further Reduce Resource Usage

# Disable unnecessary startup services
# Manage in LXQt Configuration Center -> Session Settings -> Autostart
 
# Use a lighter browser
sudo apt install falkon

Install Common Software

Although Lubuntu’s default installation is minimal, you can install any software as needed:

# Install LibreOffice office suite
sudo apt install libreoffice
 
# Install multimedia codecs
sudo apt install ubuntu-restricted-extras

Who Is It For

• Users with very old (10+ years) computers
• Users who need to run Linux in a low-spec virtual machine
• Users who prioritize extreme lightness and boot speed
• Users who need a basic but complete Linux desktop environment
• Users who want to put old, unused computers back into service