Ubuntu (and also Debian that it derives from) are always behind on the software release cycles and contain "stale" packages. This is desirable if you're running a server, but if you're wanting a modem day desktop experience a non-rolling release distro is just leaving performance/usability of your hardware on the table.

Think of Ubuntu/Debian and all their derivatives as the Jitterbug of the phone industry. They work perfectly fine, but if you want a real phone you're probably going to be happier with an iPhone or Android phone just because they make use of newer technology and get updates constantly.