Linuxabc logo

Useful software for Linux

From office work to graphics, video, audio and development

Useful applications for Linux

Linux has many high-quality applications for everyday work, creative projects and computer maintenance. You do not need to install everything – choose the tools you actually need and explore the others later.

If you are just getting started

For everyday use, an office suite, a web browser, a tool for images or PDF files and a few basic system utilities are often enough. Add video, music production, 3D and development tools only when you need them.

What do you need?

How should you install software?

For beginners, the easiest approach is to use the software store or software manager included with your distribution. This usually makes installation and updates easier to manage.

Recommended order

  • check your distribution's software store or official repositories first,
  • use a trusted source such as Flathub when needed,
  • if the application is not available there, check its official website,
  • avoid random software download websites.

Office software

For documents and spreadsheets, LibreOffice is a good general choice. OnlyOffice can be useful if you often exchange files with Microsoft Office users. Scribus and PDF Arranger are more specialised tools.

Graphics and design

GIMP is for image and photo editing, Krita for digital painting, Inkscape for vector graphics, and Darktable mainly for photography and RAW files.

Video editing and recording

Kdenlive and Shotcut are video editors. OBS Studio is for screen recording and live streaming, while HandBrake is useful for converting and compressing video.

Audio and music production

Audacity is suitable for basic recording and audio editing. Ardour offers more advanced audio production, while LMMS focuses on music and beat creation.

System tools

These tools help you inspect your computer, test storage performance and maintain the system. You do not need them every day – they are most useful when checking hardware or troubleshooting.

Timeshift is not a backup of your personal files

Timeshift is mainly intended for system snapshots. Documents, photos and other personal files should still be backed up regularly to another drive or another safe location.

Development, 3D and engineering

Geany is simple for getting started with programming, VSCodium and Visual Studio Code offer more development features, while FreeCAD and Blender are aimed at technical and 3D work.

You do not need to find the perfect application

Linux often offers several applications for the same task. Start with one that meets your needs and use it for a while. If something is missing later, you can always try another option.

← Back to home