24 个必备的 Linux 应用程序
Linux 应用
![](/data/attachment/album/201810/28/190052elhoxx7rzl2lxr7r.png)



> 
> 提要：Linux 上必备的应用程序是什么呢？这个答案具有主观性并取决于你使用 Linux 桌面的目的是什么。但确实存在一些必备的并且大部分 Linux 用户都会安装的应用程序。接下来我们会列举出那些在所有 Linux 发行版上你都会安装的最优秀的 Linux 应用程序。
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在 Linux 的世界中，所有东西都由你选择。你要选择一个发行版？你能找到一大把。你想要找到一个称心的音乐播放器？同样会有许多选择。


但它们并非全部遵循相同的设计理念 —— 其中一些可能追求极致轻量化而另一些会提供数不清的特性。因此想要找到正中需求的应用程序会成为相当令人头疼的繁重任务。那就让我们来缓解你的头疼吧。


### 对于 Linux 用户来说最优秀的自由软件


接下来我将罗列一系列在不同应用场景下我偏爱的必备 Linux 自由软件。当然此处我并非在说它们是最好的，但确实是在特定类别下我尝试的一系列软件中最喜欢的。也同样欢迎你在评论区介绍你最喜欢的应用程序。


同时我们也制作了关于此次应用清单的[视频](https://youtu.be/awawJnkUbWs)。在 YouTube 上订阅我们的频道获取更多的 Linux 视频。


### 网页浏览器


![网页浏览器](/data/attachment/album/201810/28/190103u62l9o9iy4ssae4o.jpg)


*网页浏览器*


#### Google Chrome


[Google Chrome](https://www.google.com/chrome/browser) 是一个强大并且功能完善的浏览器解决方案，它拥有完美的同步功能以及丰富的扩展。如果你喜欢 Google 的生态系统那么 Google Chrome 毫无疑问会是你的菜。如果你想要更加开源的解决方案，你可以尝试 [Chromium](https://www.chromium.org/Home)，它是 Google Chrome 的上游项目。


#### Firefox


如果你不是 Google Chrome 的粉丝，你可以尝试 [Firefox](https://www.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox)。它一直以来都是一个非常稳定并且健壮的网页浏览器。


#### Vivaldi


当然，如果你想要尝试点不同的新东西，你可以尝试 [Vivaldi](https://vivaldi.com)。Vivaldi 是一个完全重新设计的网页浏览器，它由 Opera 浏览器项目的前成员基于 Chromium 项目而创建。Vivaldi 轻量并且可定制，虽然它还非常年轻并且在某些特性上仍不完善，但它仍能让你眼前一亮并且优雅地工作。


* [推荐阅读：[回顾] Otter 浏览器为 Opera 爱好者带来了希望](https://itsfoss.com/otter-browser-review/)


### 下载管理器


![下载管理器](/data/attachment/album/201810/28/190103k822261und322v23.jpg)


*下载管理器*


#### uGet


[uGet](http://ugetdm.com/) 是我遇到过最棒的下载管理器，它是开源的并且能满足你对于一款下载管理器的一切期许。uGet 提供一系列便于管理下载的高级设置。你能够管理下载队列并且断点续传，针对大文件使用多连接下载，根据不同列表将文件下载至不同路径，等等。


#### XDM


Xtreme 下载管理器（[XDM](http://xdman.sourceforge.net/)）是一个 Java 开发的强大并且开源的下载工具。它拥有下载管理器的所有基本特性，包括视频抓取、智能计划任务以及浏览器集成。


* [推荐阅读：Linux 下最好的 4 个下载管理器](https://itsfoss.com/4-best-download-managers-for-linux/)


### BitTorrent 客户端


![BitTorrent 客户端](/data/attachment/album/201810/28/190105c2272y2vy11ae2eu.jpg)


*BitTorrent 客户端*


#### Deluge


[Deluge](http://deluge-torrent.org/) 是一个拥有漂亮用户界面的开源 BitTorrent 客户端。如果你习惯在 Windows 上使用 uTorrent，那么 Deluge 的界面会让你倍感亲切。它拥有丰富的设置项和针对不同任务的插件支持。


#### Transmission


[Transmission](https://transmissionbt.com/) 力求精简，它是用户界面最精简的 BitTorrent 客户端之一。Transmission 是许多 Linux 发行版的预装软件。


* [推荐阅读：Ubuntu Linux 上前 5 名的 Torrent 客户端](https://itsfoss.com/best-torrent-ubuntu/)


### 云存储


![云存储](/data/attachment/album/201810/28/190106a8x83xl0vqc5r5w3.jpg)


*云存储*


#### Dropbox


[Dropbox](https://www.dropbox.com) 是目前最流行的云存储服务之一，它为新用户提供了 2GB 的免费存储空间，以及一个健壮并且易于使用的 Linux 客户端。


#### MEGA


[MEGA](https://mega.nz/) 提供了 50GB 的免费存储，但这还并不是它最大的优点，MEGA 还为你的文件提供了端到端的加密支持。MEGA 提供一个名为 MEGAsync 的可靠的 Linux 客户端。


* [推荐阅读：2017 年 Linux 上最优秀的免费云服务](https://itsfoss.com/cloud-services-linux/)


### 通讯工具


![通讯工具](/data/attachment/album/201810/28/190107h50ygkcn58dc8cnc.jpg)


*通讯工具*


#### Pidgin


[Pidgin](https://www.pidgin.im/) 是一款开源的即时通讯工具，它支持许多聊天平台，包括 Google Talk、Yahoo 甚至 IRC。Pidgin 可通过第三方插件进行扩展，能提供许多附加功能。


你也可以使用 [Franz](https://itsfoss.com/franz-messaging-app/) 或 [Rambox](http://rambox.pro/) 来在一个应用中使用多个通讯服务。


#### Skype


我们都知道 [Skype](https://www.skype.com) 是最流行的视频聊天平台之一，它[发布了全新的 Linux 桌面客户端](https://itsfoss.com/skpe-alpha-linux/)。


* [推荐阅读：2017 年 Linux 平台上最优秀的 6 款消息应用](https://itsfoss.com/best-messaging-apps-linux/)


### 办公套件


![办公套件](/data/attachment/album/201810/28/190110ls9xmxaxpdi33zko.jpg)


*办公套件*


#### LibreOffice


[LibreOffice](https://www.libreoffice.org) 是 Linux 平台上开发最为活跃的开源办公套件，主要包括 Writer、Calc、Impress、Draw、Math、Base 六个主要模块，并且每个模块都提供广泛的文件格式支持。同时 LibreOffice 也支持第三方的扩展，以上优势使它成为许多 Linux 发行版的默认办公套件。


#### WPS Office


如果你想要尝试除 LibreOffice 以外的办公套件，[WPS Office](https://www.wps.com) 值得一试。WPS Office 套件包括了写作、演示和数据表格支持。


* [推荐阅读：Linux 平台 6 款最优秀的 Microsoft Office 替代品](https://itsfoss.com/best-free-open-source-alternatives-microsoft-office/)


### 音乐播放器


![音乐播放器](/data/attachment/album/201810/28/190111eborr7otfarizb13.jpg)


*音乐播放器*


#### Lollypop


[Lollypop](http://gnumdk.github.io/lollypop-web/) 是一款相对较新的开源音乐播放器，拥有漂亮又不失简洁的用户界面。它提供优秀的音乐管理、歌曲推荐、在线广播和派对模式支持。虽然它是一款不具有太多特性的简洁音乐播放器，但仍值得我们去尝试。


#### Rhythmbox


[Rhythmbox](https://wiki.gnome.org/Apps/Rhythmbox) 是一款主要为 GNOME 桌面环境开发的音乐播放器，当然它也可以在其他桌面环境运行。它能完成所有作为一款音乐播放器的基础功能，包括 CD 抓取和烧制、乱序播放，等等。它也提供了 iPod 支持。


#### cmus


如果你想要最轻量，并且喜欢命令行的话，[cmus](https://cmus.github.io/) 适合你。个人来讲，我是它的粉丝用户。cmus 是一款面向类 Unix 平台的小巧、快速并且强大的命令音乐播放器。它包含所有基础的音乐播放器特性，并且你能够通过扩展和脚本来增强它的功能。


* [推荐阅读：如何在 Ubuntu 14.04 和 Linux Mint 17 上安装 Tomahawk 播放器](https://itsfoss.com/install-tomahawk-ubuntu-1404-linux-mint-17/)


（LCTT 译注：好了好了，大家不要提醒我了，我这次补充上深受国内 Linux 和开源爱好者喜爱的[网易云音乐](https://music.163.com/#/download)。:D ）


### 视频播放器


![视频播放器](/data/attachment/album/201810/28/190113z38u0zusr7x7vhgw.jpg)


*视频播放器*


#### VLC


[VLC](http://www.videolan.org) 是一款简洁、快速、轻量并且非常强大的开源媒体播放器，它能够直接播放几乎所有格式的媒体文件，同时也能够播放在线的流媒体。它也能够安装一些时髦的扩展来完成不同的任务，比如直接在播放器内下载字幕。


#### Kodi


[Kodi](https://kodi.tv) 是一款成熟并且开源的媒体中心，在它的用户群中非常受欢迎。它能够处理来自本地或者网络媒体存储的视频、音乐、图片、播客甚至游戏，更强大的是你还能用它来录制电视节目。Kodi 可由附加组件和皮肤进行定制。


* [推荐阅读:Linux 平台上的 4 款格式工厂替代品](https://itsfoss.com/format-factory-alternative-linux/)


### 照片编辑器


![照片编辑器](/data/attachment/album/201810/28/190114de0e7cw6pn1t3tzp.jpg)


*照片编辑器*


#### GIMP


[GIMP](https://www.gimp.org/) 是 Linux 平台上 Photoshop 的替代品，它是一款开源、全功能并且专业的照片编辑软件。它打包了各式各样的工具用来编辑图片，更强大的是，它包含丰富的自定义设置以及第三方插件来增强体验。


#### Krita


[Krita](https://krita.org/en/) 主要是作为一款绘图工具，但也可以作为照片编辑软件。它是开源的并且打包了非常多复杂的高级工具。


* [推荐阅读:Linux 平台最好的照片应用](https://itsfoss.com/image-applications-ubuntu-linux/)


### 文字编辑器


每个 Linux 发行版都拥有自己的文字编缉器解决方案，当然大体上它们都非常简洁并且没有太多功能。但是也有一些文字编辑器具有更强大的功能。


![文字编辑器](/data/attachment/album/201810/28/190115lao29x657m625bm5.jpg)


*文字编辑器*


#### Atom


[Atom](https://atom.io/) 是由 GitHub 开发的一款现代高度可配置的文字编辑器，它是完全开源的并且能够提供所有你能想到的文字编辑器功能。你可以开箱即用，也可以将其配置成你想要的样子。并且你可以从它的社区安装大量的扩展和主题。


#### Sublime Text


[Sublime Text](http://www.sublimetext.com/) 是最受欢迎的文字编辑器之一，虽然它并不是免费的，但你可以无限地试用该款软件。Sublime Text 是一款特性丰富并且高度模块化的软件，当然它也提供插件和主题支持。


* [推荐阅读：Linux 平台最优秀的 4 款现代开源代码编辑器](https://itsfoss.com/best-modern-open-source-code-editors-for-linux/)


（LCTT 译注：当然，我知道你们也忘记不了 [VSCode](https://code.visualstudio.com/download)。）


### 启动器


![启动器](/data/attachment/album/201810/28/190116r08gt3usjgwgxyj4.jpg)


*启动器*


#### Albert


[Albert](https://github.com/ManuelSchneid3r/albert) 是一款快速、可扩展、可定制的生产力工具，受 Alfred（Mac 平台上一个非常好的生产力工具）启发并且仍处于开发阶段，它的目标是“使所有触手可及”。它能够与你的 Linux 发行版非常好的集成，帮助你提高生产力。


#### Synapse


[Synapse](https://launchpad.net/synapse-project) 已经有些年头了，它是一个能够搜索和运行程序的简单启动器。它也同时能够加速一些工作流，譬如音乐控制、文件搜索、路径切换、书签、运行命令，等等。


正如 Abhishek 所考虑的，我们将根据读者的（也就是你的）反馈更新最佳 Linux 应用程序清单。那么，你最爱的 Linux 应用程序是什么呢？分享给我们或者为这个清单增加新的软件分类吧。




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via: <https://itsfoss.com/essential-linux-applications/>


作者：[Munif Tanjim](https://itsfoss.com/author/munif/) 译者：[cycoe](https://github.com/cycoe) 校对：[wxy](https://github.com/wxy)


本文由 [LCTT](https://github.com/LCTT/TranslateProject) 原创编译，[Linux 中国](https://linux.cn/) 荣誉推出


OK
![Warp Terminal](/assets/images/warp-terminal.webp)


![Warp Terminal](/assets/images/warp-terminal.webp)

In the world of Linux, there are alternatives to everything. Choosing a distro? There are dozens of them. Trying to find a decent music player? Plenty of alternatives there too.

But not all of them are built with the same thing in mind – some of them might target minimalism, while others might offer tons of features. Finding the right application for your needs can be quite a confusing and boring task.

Let’s make it a bit easier 😉

## ⭐ Essential applications for Linux users

I have put together a list of the **essential Linux applications** that I prefer to use in different categories.

I’m not saying that they are the best, but I’ve tried many applications in each category and these are the ones I liked the most. So, you are more than welcome to mention your favorite applications in the comments section, too.

In addition, we’ve categorized the apps as well to get you started!

**Some of the applications mentioned here are not open source. They have been included in the context of Linux usage.**

**Non-FOSS Warning!**## Image Editors

![image editors linux](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/2023/04/image-editor.png)

We’ve already discussed some of the [best photo applications for Linux](https://itsfoss.com/image-applications-ubuntu-linux/). Here we shall mention two essential tools for every user.

**1. GIMP **🖌️🎨

GIMP is the holy grail of image editors for casual users and professionals. It offers almost every type of tool you will ever require manipulating an image, scaling it, cropping it, or simply adding a layer to it.

Allowing plugins that extend its functionality while being an open-source solution is impressive.

You can install it from your Software Center or follow our [GIMP installation guide](https://itsfoss.com/gimp-2-10-release/).

**2. Inkscape **🖋️

One of the [best Linux tools for digital artists](https://itsfoss.com/best-linux-graphic-design-software/), Inkscape is certainly an impressive image editor as well.

Unlike GIMP, [Inkscape](https://inkscape.org/?ref=itsfoss.com) comes pre-installed on many major Linux distros. It offers a bunch of drawing tools and vector graphics editing capabilities, making it a powerful choice for manipulating images as well.

**3. Conjure **➰

If you are looking for a tool to help you with quick tasks like Blur, Emboss, Sharpen, etc, [Conjure](https://github.com/nate-xyz/conjure?ref=news.itsfoss.com) can help you transform images.

It is a fairly new GUI tool as a front end to ImageMagick.

## Audio Editors

![audio editors linux](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/2023/04/audio-editor.png)

**1. Audacity **🎧

We’ve mentioned several [audio editors](https://itsfoss.com/best-audio-editors-linux/) in the past, but Audacity is the most popular tool for basic editing tasks. You can try to experiment and pull off something interesting as well. For instance, [reducing noise from your recording](https://itsfoss.com/audacity-recording/).

It supports plugins to extend its functionality. If you’re wondering: it is an open-source software and available for free. You can install it directly from the Software Center, or explore other options on its [official download page](https://www.audacityteam.org/?ref=itsfoss.com).

**Suggested Read 📖**

[How to Record Audio in Linux With Audacity (and Reduce Noise)Audacity is a free and open source cross-platform audio editor. Professionals use it for the tone of features it provides in such a small package. You don’t have to be a professional and use all of its features. You can use it to record audio from your microphone and](https://itsfoss.com/audacity-recording/)![](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/wordpress/2022/08/record-audio-using-audacity.jpg)


![](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/wordpress/2022/08/record-audio-using-audacity.jpg)

**2. LMMS 🎸**⏺️

LMMS is a free and open-source Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) available cross-platform. Undoubtedly, it is one of the [best DAWs for Linux](https://itsfoss.com/best-daw-linux/).

It is a feature-rich alternative to premium audio editors (or DAWs) for creating, editing, and recording music. If you have a MIDI device, you can just plug it into your machine and get started with LMMS. It also supports VST plugins, to say the least.

You can find it listed in the Software Center or explore other options on its official website.

## Email Clients

![email clients linux](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/2023/04/email-client.png)

**1. Evolution **📧

Evolution is the default mail app for GNOME desktop users, and it is quickly replacing Thunderbird as a pre-installed mail client on numerous Linux distributions.

It offers a nice user interface and also supports Microsoft Exchange using an extension.

You can check out its [GNOME wiki page](https://wiki.gnome.org/Apps/Evolution/?ref=itsfoss.com) to find links to Flatpak and other installation options.

**2. Thunderbird **✉️⚡

A simple and free email client developed by Mozilla. You may find it pre-installed on some Linux distributions – if not, you can easily install it using your Software Center or package manager. One of the oldest and reliable email applications with an evolving user experience.

You can also download it from their [website](https://www.thunderbird.net/en-GB/?ref=itsfoss.com) and then install it.

## Personal Communication

![personal communication apps linux](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/2023/04/personal-communication.png)

**1. Signal **💬🔒

[Signal](https://www.signal.org) is a popular open-source instant messaging app as one of the [alternatives to WhatsApp](https://itsfoss.com/private-whatsapp-alternatives/).

We also have a guide to help you [install Signal in Li](https://itsfoss.com/install-signal-ubuntu/)[n](https://itsfoss.com/install-signal-ubuntu/)[ux](https://itsfoss.com/install-signal-ubuntu/) to get started.

**2. Element **💬🛡️

[Element](https://element.io/?ref=itsfoss.com) is a secure open-source collaboration platform built on the Matrix network.

It may not be a popular choice, but it offers plenty of features as a replacement for many other proprietary options for personal or work communication.

## Screen Recording and Streaming Tools

![screen recorders for linux](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/2023/04/screen-recording.png)

Are you a Blogger, YouTuber, or work in similar industries? Here are a few tools for you.

**1. Kazam **📷

If you’ve been following us, you might have already read about the [best screen recorders available for Linux](https://itsfoss.com/best-linux-screen-recorders/).

Kazam is the simplest solution among them. It lets you record your screen and includes several essential features like giving you the ability to select the area/window, hiding/showing the cursor, and enabling the sound from your mic/speaker.

For installation instructions, its [GitHub page](https://github.com/hzbd/kazam?ref=itsfoss.com) would be your best bet.

**Suggested Read 📖**

[Record Screen in Ubuntu Linux With Kazam [Beginner’s Guide]This tutorial shows you how to install Kazam screen recorder and explains how to record the screen in Ubuntu. The guide also lists useful shortcuts and handy tips for using Kazam. Kazam is one of the best screen recorders for Linux even though it is not being actively developed anymore.](https://itsfoss.com/kazam-screen-recorder/)![](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/wordpress/2018/09/screen-recording-kazam-ubuntu-linux.png)


![](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/wordpress/2018/09/screen-recording-kazam-ubuntu-linux.png)

**2. OBS **🎥

[Open Broadcaster Software](https://obsproject.com/?ref=itsfoss.com) is a pretty popular and robust screen recorder and streaming app. Many professional streamers use it.

You can heavily customize it, add your template, etc. So, there are a lot of things you can do once you start exploring it. OBS is suitable for both personal and professional users – it’s not the easiest, but it’s really useful.

**3. Flameshot **📸

[Flameshot](https://github.com/flameshot-org/flameshot) is yet one of the nicest options to take screenshots and annotate them.

You can even directly upload your images to Imgur without needing to save them on your PC. Regardless of what Linux distro you use, you could find it handy.

**4. Ksnip **✂️

A simple Qt-based cross-platform screenshot tool that offers more annotation features.

We’ve discussed [multiple ways to take screenshots in Linux, ](https://itsfoss.com/take-screenshot-linux/)and using Ksnip is one of them.

It’s fairly new, and not the most popular screenshot tool out there, but it works as expected. Refer to its [GitHub page](https://github.com/ksnip/ksnip) for information on installation and more.

## System Optimizers/Task Managers

![task managers linux](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/2023/04/task-manager.png)

**1. Stacer **⚙️

Stacer is my favorite system optimizer and [task manager on Linux](https://itsfoss.com/task-manager-linux/), with a beautiful user interface.

You get not only a pretty UI, but also a solid set of features to help you in the best way possible. You can manage startup tasks, clean temporary/cache files, manage running services, uninstall packages, and monitor your system resources easily.

Check out its [GitHub page](https://github.com/oguzhaninan/Stacer?ref=itsfoss.com) for installation instructions, or follow our [Stacer guide](https://itsfoss.com/optimize-ubuntu-stacer/) to learn more.

**Suggested Read 📖**

[Optimize Ubuntu System With StacerWindows users often look for CCleaner alternatives for Linux. CCleaner is a popular Windows application that lets you easily free up space by removing unnecessary files and completely uninstalling software. Stacer is a new application for Ubuntu that functions similar to CCleaner, i.e., to opti…](https://itsfoss.com/optimize-ubuntu-stacer/)![](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/wordpress/2017/02/stacer-ft.png)


![](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/wordpress/2017/02/stacer-ft.png)

**2. htop **🖥️

You probably know about the default “top” CLI tool to monitor processes in your system. It is still useful – but not the best out there.

So if you’re looking for a better command-line based tool, [htop](https://github.com/hishamhm/htop?ref=itsfoss.com) is the perfect replacement. You no longer need to type in the process number to kill it, just navigate to it and end it. It is way easier and faster than the traditional top CLI tool.

You can also take a look at our list of [top alternatives](https://itsfoss.com/linux-system-monitoring-tools/) to find more utilities for system monitoring.

## Apps for Gamers

![gaming apps linux](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/2023/04/gaming-apps.png)

While I recommend going through our [gaming guide](https://itsfoss.com/essential-linux-applications/) to get better insights on what you need to game on Linux. These are the absolute best apps to have:

**1. Steam **🎮

Yes, [Steam](https://store.steampowered.com/?ref=itsfoss.com) is a proprietary client or marketplace to purchase/install/manage your Linux games.

However, it is the best game client with a massive library of free and paid games to offer (both native Linux games and Windows exclusives).

To install it, you can download the .deb file from its [official download page](https://store.steampowered.com/about/?ref=itsfoss.com) or find the installer on Software Center. We also have a quick [Steam installation guide](https://itsfoss.com/install-steam-ubuntu-linux/) for help.

**2. Discord **🎮🕹️

Without a second thought, if you’re a gamer, you have to install this one right away. Do note that it’s **not an open-source application**.

Yes, there are alternatives to it. But nothing beats Discord when it comes to the ability to manage a server room where fellow gamers can interact and communicate on voice channels in-game.

You can easily [install Discord on Linux](https://itsfoss.com/install-discord-linux/).

[Epic Games Store on Linux](https://itsfoss.com/epic-games-linux/).

**Suggested Read 📖**

[How to Play GOG Games on LinuxWant to access and play GOG games on Linux? Here’s how to do that.](https://itsfoss.com/play-gog-games-linux/)![](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/2023/04/play-gog-games-on-linux.png)


![](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/2023/04/play-gog-games-on-linux.png)

## Media Players

![media player linux](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/2023/04/media-player.png)

**1. Audacious **💿

Audacious is a simple music player that is low on resources while being an open-source solution. One of the [best music players for Linux](https://itsfoss.com/best-music-players-linux/).

You can customize the interface to give it a different look. To add songs, just drag and drop the folder you want. You can install it from the Software Center or visit the [official download page](https://audacious-media-player.org/download?ref=itsfoss.com).

Go on, get started!

**2. VLC **💽

I’ve tried a lot of video players on my Windows machine and on Linux systems as well – but I keep going back to VLC pretty much every time. VLC is a simple media player that’s open-source and free as well. It supports almost every type of file format.

You can download it from their [website](https://www.videolan.org/vlc/index.html?ref=itsfoss.com) or find it on your Software Center.

**3. MusicPod**

A Flutter-based app, [MusicPod](https://snapcraft.io/musicpod?ref=news.itsfoss.com) offers an excellent user experience.

It provides all the essentials and yet manages to stand out from some of the other options.

**Suggested Read 📖**

[Top 10 Best Music Players for LinuxIt isn’t rocket science to play music on Linux, but you should have a great experience with a good music player!](https://itsfoss.com/best-music-players-linux/)![](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/wordpress/2022/07/best-music-players-for-linux.jpg)


![](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/wordpress/2022/07/best-music-players-for-linux.jpg)

## Media Server Software

![media server software linux](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/2023/04/media-server-software.png)

Let’s have a look at some [media server software for Linux](https://itsfoss.com/best-linux-media-server/).

**1. Kodi **🎥💿

[Kodi](https://kodi.tv) is definitely one of the best media server programs available for Linux. Many of the other [best media server tools](https://itsfoss.com/best-linux-media-server/) are based on Kodi as well.

**2. Plex **👨 💻

[Plex](https://www.plex.tv/?ref=itsfoss.com) is not entirely open-source media server software, but it offers an option to create a free account. A nice UI with all the basic features you need included. You can easily [install Plex on Ubuntu](https://itsfoss.com/install-plex-ubuntu/).

## Video Editors

![video editors linux](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/2023/04/video-editors.png)

If I had to choose the top two [best video editors for Linux](https://itsfoss.com/best-video-editing-software-linux/), these would be my picks.

**1. Kdenlive **📹✂️

Kdenlive is one of the [best free video editing programs](https://itsfoss.com/best-video-editing-software-linux/) available for Linux. It’s an open-source solution and also offers support for dual monitors. It includes most of the necessary features, like basic transition effects, layout customization, multi-track editing, and so on.

**2. OpenShot **🎥✂️

OpenShot is an open source video editor is easy to use and robust as well. It includes 3D effects, basic video transitions, drag and drop support, and so on.

If you want to use it for professional-grade editing, you be the judge.

## Open-Source Media Converters

![media converter linux](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/2023/04/media-converter.png)

**1. Handbrake **📺

[Handbrake](https://handbrake.fr) is an impressive video converter. It supports a wide range of video codecs and quickly converts your videos. Of course, you get to decide the quality or resolution, frame rate, and plenty of other things like subtitles while converting the video.

**2. SoundConverter **🔊

Fret not if you’re a fan of audio instead of video. We’ve got you.

[SoundConverter](http://soundconverter.org/?ref=itsfoss.com) is a powerful audio conversion tool that supports almost all file formats and converts audio files pretty fast.

## Backup Tools

![backup tools linux](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/2023/04/data-backup.png)

Backup is one of the essential parts of not only Linux, but any operating system. Here are two options for you.

**1. Timeshift **📁☁️

Yes, we often keep a backup of our files. But what about the driver updates and configuration changes that you perform? What if these break your entire system?

In such a case, [Timeshift](https://github.com/linuxmint/timeshift) will help you take a backup (or a snapshot) of your entire OS along with all its configurations. You can easily restore it when something goes wrong. We have a guide on how to use [Timeshift on Linux](https://itsfoss.com/backup-restore-linux-timeshift/) as well.

**2. Bacula **📁🔁

[Bacula](https://www.bacula.org/?ref=itsfoss.com) is a feature-rich open-source backup tool available for Linux.

It’s not just a single program but includes several tools for every specific option. Furthermore, it’s somewhat developer-oriented, so if you maintain a network of computers, you can definitely make use of Bacula.

## PDF Editing Tools

![pdf editing linux](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/2023/04/pdf-editing-tools.png)

**1. LibreOffice Draw **📄

For basic PDF editing tasks, LibreOffice Draw is the go-to solution for users who prefer FOSS. It has its limitations – but works like a charm for most use-cases.

If it doesn’t fit your needs, you can check out the [best Linux PDF editors](https://itsfoss.com/pdf-editors-linux/) available.

**2. PDF Studio **📃

[PDF Studio](https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio/?ref=itsfoss.com) is a wonderful PDF editor by Qoppa software.

It’s **not an open-source offering** – in fact, it’s a paid solution for users looking to edit PDF files. You get features like annotate, edit, optimize, sign, watermark, etc. for manipulating PDF files easily.

## Code and Text Editors

![code editors linux](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/2023/04/code-editors.png)

**1. VS Code **👨💻

Even though we’re Linux users, I’ve noticed that many people like the [Visual Studio Code editor](https://code.visualstudio.com/?ref=itsfoss.com). It includes a smart feature to autocomplete what you write based on variable type or function definition. It’s highly recommended if you’re working with Git, because the relevant commands are built-in. And as you start exploring, you’ll discover so much more to it.

There’s also an unofficial open-source version, i.e., [VS Codium](https://vscodium.com/?ref=itsfoss.com).

Follow our [Visual Studio Code installation](https://itsfoss.com/install-visual-studio-code-ubuntu/) article to get started.

In addition to VS Code, you can look at some of the [best modern code editors](https://itsfoss.com/best-modern-open-source-code-editors-for-linux/) for your work.

**2. Lyx 💻👨💻**

Lyx is an open-source editor with numerous features. If you’re writing scientific documents or a thesis, this can be helpful with its formula editor to make things easier.

You can download it right from the Software Center. More information can be found on its [website](https://www.lyx.org/?ref=itsfoss.com).

**3. Texmaker **✍️

Even though we’ve already discussed [some of the best LaTeX editors](https://itsfoss.com/latex-editors-linux/), I’ll mention this as one of the essential additions to your Linux system.

It is specifically tailored for the GNOME environment but works everywhere. Its PDF conversion is blazing fast. Try it by downloading it from the Software Center or the [official site](http://www.xm1math.net/texmaker/?ref=itsfoss.com).

## Note-Taking Apps

**1. Simplenote **📝

[Simplenote](https://simplenote.com/?ref=itsfoss.com) is one of the best Evernote alternatives available for Linux. The organization behind WordPress ([Automattic](https://automattic.com/?ref=itsfoss.com)) is responsible for developing Simplenote. So, it’s actively maintained and offers all the basic note-taking features (and syncing capabilities) across multiple devices for free.

In addition to this, you can also try some of the [best note taking apps for Linux](https://itsfoss.com/note-taking-apps-linux/).

**Suggested Read 📖**

[Looking for Some Good Note Taking Apps on Linux? Here are the Best Notes Apps we Found for YouNo matter what you do — taking notes is always a good habit. Yes, there are a lot of note taking apps to help you achieve that. But, what about some open-source note taking apps for Linux? Fret not, you don’t need to endlessly search the Internet to find the](https://itsfoss.com/note-taking-apps-linux/)![](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/wordpress/2020/05/Note-Taking-Apps-linux.jpg)


![](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/wordpress/2020/05/Note-Taking-Apps-linux.jpg)

**2. Standard Notes **📋🔒

[Standard Notes](https://standardnotes.com) is a simple and flexible take on secure notes.

It offers end-to-end encrypting by default (for free) while offering cloud sync. You can opt for its premium to unlock more features and extensions.

## Team Communication & Productivity

![team communication linux](https://itsfoss.com/content/images/2023/04/team-communication.png)

**1. Slack **💬

Even at It’s FOSS, we used [Slack](https://slack.com/?ref=itsfoss.com) before moving to other chat platforms for team communication. This is **not an open-source solution**.

[Slack on Linux](https://itsfoss.com/slack-use-linux/) is available for free, and you can opt to upgrade it to the premium version for more features. You won’t be needing a premium plan unless you’re an enterprise user with many users to manage. Free or premium, it’s an essential addition.

You can also look for open-source [Slack alternatives](https://itsfoss.com/open-source-slack-alternative/) if you don’t like it.

**2. Franz **💬💭

With this app, you no longer have to switch between different browser tabs or applications while working on something. [Franz](https://meetfranz.com) combines almost all the essential messaging/email services under one roof. You just have to launch a single application (and sign in to multiple services) to keep up with all the communication you need without switching to different applications.

If you don’t like it, there are alternatives like [Rambox](https://rambox.pro/?ref=itsfoss.com).

## Virtualization Apps

**1. Oracle VM VirtualBox **🖥️

[VirtualBox](https://www.virtualbox.org/?ref=itsfoss.com) is a wonderful free and open-source virtualization solution for those who want to try different distros (or experiment with stuff) without affecting your host system. There are numerous uses for it – go explore!

## Authenticators

**Auth**🔒🔑

Almost everyone uses 2-factor authentication to secure their online accounts. But usually, you require your smartphone along with an authentication app for the codes, right?

Fret not, with [Auth](https://ente.io/auth/) by Ente.io, an open-source authenticator, you will be able to sync 2FA codes across devices without the risk of losing them. It is available for Android, iOS, Linux, Windows, and macOS as well.

**Wrapping Up**

We’ve tried to list all the essential applications for a Linux user here. But then again, you might have a favorite that we’ve missed.

*💭 Please let us know your thoughts in the comments below.*