Ubuntu 26.04 vs. Fedora 44: After years of testing both Linux distros, here’s my verdict
Ubuntu 26.04 vs. Fedora 44: After years of testing both Linux distros, here’s my verdict
https://www.zdnet.com/article/ubuntu-26-04-vs-fedora-44/
Publish Date: 2026-05-11 14:57:00
Source Domain: www.zdnet.com
Jack Wallen/ZDNET
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ZDNET’s key takeaways
- I’ve tested Ubuntu and Fedora 44 for an extended period.
- Both use the GNOME DE, but one adds several customizations.
- Both distributions are free to use and suited for nearly any user.
If you’ve ever thought about dipping your toes into the Linux waters, or you’re thinking about hopping from one distribution to another, you’ve most likely heard of both Ubuntu and Fedora. These two distributions are heavy hitters in the world of Linux and have enjoyed great success for a long time.
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However, these two takes on Linux are quite different in several ways, so much so that choosing one or another could make a big difference in how you view Linux.
Let’s take a look at both of these Linux distributions and see which one might be best suited for you.
What is Ubuntu 26.04?
Ubuntu 26.04 (aka Resolute Raccoon) is the latest release of the long-standing distribution based on Debian and using a customized version of the GNOME desktop environment. One of the first things you should know about this latest version is that it’s a Long-Term Support (LTS) release, which means it is supported until April 2031.
With this distribution, you’ll get security and critical bug fixes for five years. You can extend that support window to ten years with a Ubuntu Pro subscription, but five years is a long time for operating system support.
Beyond support, let’s talk about what’s really important here: usability. Given that Ubuntu tends to be high on the list of distributions best suited for new users, what is it that makes that so?
It begins (as it should) with the desktop.
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As I mentioned, Ubuntu uses a customized version of the GNOME desktop environment. What I find important about Ubuntu’s take is consistency. The Ubuntu of today looks very much like the Ubuntu of ten years ago. What that does is keep things…
