Ubuntu 24.04 LTS vs 22.04 LTS: A Practical Comparison

Ubuntu releases a new Long Term Support (LTS) version every two years, and each one brings meaningful improvements. If you're running Ubuntu 22.04 Jammy Jellyfish and wondering whether to upgrade to 24.04 Noble Numbat, this guide breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision.

Quick Comparison Table

Feature Ubuntu 22.04 LTS Ubuntu 24.04 LTS
Release Date April 2022 April 2024
Support Until April 2027 April 2029
Linux Kernel 5.15 6.8
GNOME Version 42 46
Default Python 3.10 3.12
Installer Subiquity (legacy UI) Flutter-based new installer

Key Improvements in Ubuntu 24.04

1. New Flutter-Based Installer

The installation experience has been completely redesigned using Flutter. It's visually cleaner, more modern, and features an improved disk partitioning UI — a major quality-of-life improvement for newcomers.

2. Linux Kernel 6.8

The jump from kernel 5.15 to 6.8 brings significantly better hardware support, especially for newer AMD and Intel processors, improved Wi-Fi chipset compatibility, and enhanced energy efficiency on laptops.

3. GNOME 46

GNOME 46 introduces a redesigned Files (Nautilus) app with global search, improved Settings panels, better multi-monitor support, and various performance refinements throughout the desktop.

4. Improved App Center

Ubuntu 24.04 ships with a completely rebuilt App Center powered by Flutter. It's faster, better organized, and makes it easier to manage both Snap and traditional .deb packages from one place.

5. Firmware Updater App

A new standalone Firmware Updater application makes it straightforward to apply UEFI and hardware firmware updates without diving into the terminal.

6. Enhanced Security Features

Ubuntu 24.04 strengthens its security posture with more restrictive AppArmor profiles by default, better unprivileged user namespace restrictions, and updated security-related packages out of the box.

What Stayed the Same?

Both releases use GNOME as the default desktop environment, both support Snap packages natively, and both follow the same LTS support lifecycle with 5 years of standard support and up to 10 years with Ubuntu Pro.

Should You Upgrade?

Here's a simple breakdown:

  • Upgrade if you have newer hardware (2022 or later), you want the latest software versions, or your 22.04 install is reaching its support window.
  • Stay on 22.04 if your system is stable and mission-critical, you rely on specific software that hasn't been tested on 24.04, or you simply don't want the disruption.

How to Upgrade

Once 22.04 users are offered the upgrade path, you can upgrade in-place by running:

sudo do-release-upgrade

Always back up your data before upgrading. A fresh install is generally recommended for the cleanest experience, though in-place upgrades typically work well.

Both are excellent, stable releases. Ubuntu 24.04 is the better choice for new installations and forward-looking setups.