Alpine Linux
5.9#10 in server operating systemFree planFree planLinuxSelf-hosted
VisitAlpine Linux vs Ubuntu Server
Ubuntu Server
6.6#3 in server operating systemFrom $25 a yearFree planLinuxSelf-hosted
VisitWhat both publish
| Fact | Alpine Linux | Ubuntu Server |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Alpine Linux is an independent, non-commercial, general purpose Linux distribution designed for power users who value security, simplicity and resource efficiency. | Ubuntu Server is designed to scale across enterprise data centers and public or private clouds, including OpenStack clouds, Kubernetes clusters, and large render farms. |
| Support | The community page lists #alpine-linux for general discussion and quick support questions, and mailing lists for support and development. | Ubuntu Pro plus Support offers 24/7 expert support with break-fix and bug-fix coverage for infrastructure and applications. |
| Virtualization | The Virtual image has a slimmed down kernel and is optimized for virtual systems. | The download page links Multipass for creating Ubuntu virtual machines on Windows, Mac, and Linux, and lists VirtualBox, Hyper-V, HyperKit, or KVM. |
Alpine Linux plans
- Alpine LinuxFree
Ubuntu Server plans
- Ubuntu ServerFree
- Ubuntu Pro PersonalFree
- Ubuntu Pro CommunityFree
- Ubuntu Pro Workstation$25 a year
- Ubuntu Pro with 24/7 Enterprise support — Workstation$300 a year
- Ubuntu Pro Server with unlimited VMs$500 a year
Pick Alpine Linux if…
Alpine Linux is suited to experienced Linux users choosing an operating system for physical, virtual, cloud, or container environments. Its handbook focuses on traditional desktop and server installations, while other uses assume Linux familiarity.
Pick Ubuntu Server if…
Ubuntu Server suits organizations deploying workloads on physical servers, virtual machines, clouds or edge devices. Teams needing extended security maintenance, fleet administration or enterprise support can consider Ubuntu Pro options.