What is the openSUSE vs Ubuntu Debate? And why discuss it?
Both are very powerful open-source Linux distributions that rule the server and desktop environment—used for different needs.
openSUSE ranks 13th with an average rating of 9.5 and a 6.1% share of mind in OSB. Canonical is 2nd with a rating of 8.8 and a 14.5% share, with 95% of its users recommending the solution compared to all openSUSE users.
In this comparison, I’m breaking down OpenSUSE vs Ubuntu from installation to performance, usability, and security, and help you make an informed decision. Their basics are the first major difference, let’s learn together!
What is OpenSUSE?
OpenSUSE is a Linux distribution created by The openSUSE Project. It first came out in October 2005. openSUSE is a widely used Linux server distribution, having evolved over the years through careful analysis and optimization to meet the needs of its users.
SUSE, a thriving company known for its commercial Linux distribution, partnered with a community to develop openSUSE, a free version for individual users. Since 2015, corporate clients have also gained advantages from openSUSE Leap 2015. This project operates independently and is accessible to everyone, facilitating a connection between openSUSE and SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES). The free distribution is binary compatible, offering an operating system that is nearly on par with paid alternatives.
Get exclusive access to all things tech-savvy, and be the first to receive
the latest updates directly in your inbox.
The distribution was designed to offer practical open-source tools for software developers and system administrators while delivering a user-friendly interface and a robust server environment.
What is Ubuntu?
Ubuntu is a well-known Linux distribution derived from Debian, created and supported by Canonical Ltd. It is very easy to use, reliable, and secure, offering various versions like Ubuntu Desktop, Ubuntu Server, and Ubuntu Core. Ubuntu provides updates every six months.
The word “ubuntu How to Get Ubuntu Version from Terminal & GUI: Easy Steps” comes from an African term that translates to ‘humanity towards others.’ The Chinese adaptation of Ubuntu powers the fastest supercomputer in the world. Additionally, Google’s self-driving car operates on a simplified version of Ubuntu.
OpenSUSE vs Ubuntu- Key Differences!
1. Opensuse vs Ubuntu: Installation Process
Ubuntu is simple to install, making it accessible for newcomers. It features a user-friendly graphical installer, and the installation steps are clear. Often referred to as ‘Linux for Human Beings,‘ Ubuntu is an excellent choice for those transitioning from Windows or Mac.
Linux provides a lot of freedom and flexibility for easy installation, all while being a robust operating system that doesn’t demand much in terms of resources. It’s open source and completely free, with no licensing costs involved. Users can tweak different aspects of the OS through the command line, and the graphical user interface has come a long way since the old days.
There are several desktop environments to choose from, making it simple for users to switch things up. This is a big difference from Microsoft Windows or Mac, where you often have to wait for new features to be released.
In contrast, OpenSUSE vs Ubuntu can be more challenging to install than Ubuntu. During the disk partitioning process, it presents various partitioning plans, which can be quite confusing for users.
Although it is not the fastest, the openSUSE live.iso install procedure enables system customizations prior to boot, such as partitioning, assigning a static IP address, and switching between Network Manager and Wicked Network Manager.
2. Opensuse vs Ubuntu: User Interface and Desktop Environments
Ubuntu comes with GNOME as its default desktop environment, but it also supports a variety of other options like Budgie, LXDE, Cinnamon, Mate, and Xfce. If you’re interested, you can manually install any of these alternative desktop environments. GNOME is a popular choice among many Linux distributions, offering a sleek look and feel, although it doesn’t offer extensive customization options.
OpenSUSE vs Ubuntu also defaults to the GNOME desktop environment. During the installation process, you can choose between GNOME and KDE, and it supports other environments like Cinnamon, Mate, and Xfce as well, which you’ll need to install manually. Since both distributions use GNOME, it really comes down to personal preference in terms of which one you find more appealing.
3. Package Management and Software Availability
When it comes to package management, Ubuntu vs OpenSUSE is built on Debian and primarily uses .DEB packages. It has several package managers, with Snap and APT being the main ones for installing, managing, and removing software. There’s also Synaptic, which offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to install packages without needing to type any commands.
OpenSUSE vs Ubuntu operates RPM and Zypper as its command-line package managers for basic package management tasks. Additionally, it features YaST, which is particularly user-friendly for beginners who may not be comfortable with command-line operations, as it simplifies the OS installation process.
4. Release Cycle and Stability
Regarding release cycles, Ubuntu vs openSUSE issues its Long Term Support (LTS) versions every two years in April, with the latest being Ubuntu 22.04 LTS. It also releases interim versions every six months, but those don’t receive long-term support.
OpenSUSE vs Ubuntu has two main versions: OpenSUSE Leap and OpenSUSE Tumbleweed. OpenSUSE Leap features a rolling release that stays updated with the latest versions, while OpenSUSE Tumbleweed releases updates every 12 months for minor updates and every 36-48 months for major updates. Both Ubuntu and OpenSUSE are known for their stability and reliability.
5. Performance and System Requirements
Ubuntu is lighter on RAM when using XFCE or MATE, while openSUSE vs Ubuntu is highly stable but a bit heavier.
| Factor | Ubuntu | OpenSUSE |
| RAM Consumption | About 1GB (with GNOME) | Around 800MB (using KDE Plasma) |
| Startup Speed | Quick | A bit slower |
| Reliability | Stable (for LTS releases) | Very Reliable (Leap version) |
| Hardware Compatibility | Great | Decent, but might require some adjustments |
Conclusion: Is OpenSUSE better than Ubuntu?
The answer to this debate isn’t final, entirely depending in your specific needs. Ubuntu vs openSUSE is a complete winner for beginners, general users who just want an easy-to-use operating system, installation and support.
openSUSE vs Ubuntu is more suitable for developers, enterprise environments and power users. Go for OpenSUSE, if you’re a sysadmin and you like having fine control over your system and need an enterprise-ready Linux distribution. Besides, it offers advanced configurations, which you might find hard to learn I suggest learning it if it is what you need, then one must learn it.
Besides, there’s no doubt both are excellent Linux distributions, but it all comes down to the workflow and your preferences.
FAQ’s
1. Which one is easier to use, openSUSE and Ubuntu?
Ubuntu vs openSUSE is often seen as the more user-friendly option, especially for those just starting out, thanks to its simple installation and easy-to-navigate interface. On the other hand, openSUSE has more advanced settings that might be a bit much for newbies, but are great for seasoned users.
2. How do the package management systems of openSUSE and Ubuntu compare?
Ubuntu relies on APT (Advanced Package Tool) with DEB packages, giving users access to a huge software library. In contrast, openSUSE uses Zypper with RPM packages, which performs well but has a smaller range of pre-built applications compared to Ubuntu.
3. Which distribution is better in terms of performance and resource management?
Both systems are stable and dependable, but openSUSE vs Ubuntu is often praised for its outstanding stability and lightweight design, making it a great choice for server use.
4. How do openSUSE and Ubuntu differ in their release cycles and stability?
Ubuntu has a consistent six-month release schedule, with Long-Term Support (LTS) versions every two years, ensuring regular updates and support. openSUSE provides two choices: Leap (fixed, stable releases) and Tumbleweed (rolling, continuously updated), allowing users to choose between stability and the latest features.
5. How is the default desktop environment different of openSUSE vs Ubuntu?
Ubuntu vs OpenSUSE features GNOME as its default desktop environment, which offers a sleek and modern look. In contrast, OpenSUSE defaults to KDE Plasma, known for its high level of customization and a Windows-like experience, but it also supports GNOME and other desktop environments.
