Best apps for Linux
144 apps
Top Linux apps ranked by the community
pCloud is a Swiss cloud storage service that mounts your storage as a virtual drive on Windows, macOS and Linux, so files stay online until you open them. It includes link sharing, automatic phone photo backup, file history and a built-in media player. The paid pCloud Encryption add-on provides client-side encryption, and storage is sold as a subscription or a one-time lifetime plan.
12 pCloud alternativesPros
- Virtual drive saves local disk space on Windows, macOS and Linux
- One-time lifetime plans as an alternative to subscriptions
- Swiss provider with a built-in player for music and video
Cons
- Client-side encryption is a paid add-on
- Collaboration and office editing are limited next to Google Drive or OneDrive
Cost / LicenseFreemiumProprietaryCategoriesNextcloud is an open source platform you install on your own server to sync and share files, keeping data under your control instead of with a third-party cloud. Beyond file storage with desktop and mobile clients, its app store adds calendars, contacts, video calls (Talk), online office editing and many other extensions. Self-hosting is free, and Nextcloud GmbH sells enterprise support.
12 Nextcloud alternativesPros
- Keeps files on your own server instead of a third-party cloud
- App store adds calendars, contacts, Talk calls and office editing
- Desktop and mobile clients for every major platform
Cons
- Installing, securing and updating the server is your responsibility
- Performance can be sluggish without careful server tuning
- Quality varies across third-party apps
Cost / LicenseFreemiumOpen sourceCategoriesSyncthing continuously synchronizes folders directly between your computers and servers, without storing anything on a third-party cloud. Connections are encrypted and authenticated, devices find each other on the local network or through relays, and per-folder versioning keeps old copies of changed files. It is free, open source and configured through a local web interface.
8 Syncthing alternativesPros
- Syncs directly between your devices with no third-party cloud
- Free and open source, with encrypted connections
- Per-folder versioning keeps copies of changed files
Cons
- Configuration through a web interface is less approachable for non-technical users
- Devices must be online at the same time to sync
- No official mobile apps
Cost / LicenseFreeOpen sourceCategoriesPlatformsKoofr is a privacy-focused cloud storage service from Slovenia that keeps data in the EU. Besides its own storage, it can connect Dropbox, Google Drive and OneDrive accounts so you can browse and move files between them in one place. It has desktop sync apps, mobile photo backup, share links and Koofr Vault, an open source end-to-end encrypted folder.
9 Koofr alternativesPros
- Data stays in the EU with a privacy-focused European provider
- Connects Dropbox, Google Drive and OneDrive in one interface
- Koofr Vault adds an open source end-to-end encrypted folder
Cons
- Standard storage is not end-to-end encrypted outside Vault
- Fewer collaboration features than the big cloud providers
Cost / LicenseFreemiumProprietaryCategories1Password stores passwords, passkeys, credit cards, secure notes and documents in encrypted vaults that sync across devices and fill into browsers and apps. Watchtower flags weak, reused or breached passwords, and shared vaults make it practical for families and teams. It is a paid service with a free trial, and it also offers developer tools such as an SSH agent and a command-line interface.
10 1Password alternativesPros
- Polished apps on every platform with reliable autofill
- Watchtower flags weak, reused or breached passwords
- Shared vaults, plus developer tools like an SSH agent and a CLI
Cons
- No free plan, only a trial before paying
- Cloud-only vaults, with no self-hosting option
Cost / LicenseFree trialProprietaryCategoriesBitwarden is an open source password manager that keeps logins, passkeys, cards and notes in an end-to-end encrypted vault available on every major platform. The free plan covers unlimited passwords on unlimited devices, while paid plans add encrypted attachments, vault health reports, an integrated authenticator and sharing for families or teams. The server can also be self-hosted.
10 Bitwarden alternativesPros
- Free plan with unlimited passwords on unlimited devices
- Open source code with published third-party audits
- The server can be self-hosted
Cons
- Interface is more functional than polished
- Attachments, vault health reports and the authenticator need a paid plan
Cost / LicenseFreemiumOpen sourceCategoriesKeePassXC is a community-developed, open source password manager for Windows, macOS and Linux that stores everything in a local, KeePass-compatible encrypted database. It adds browser integration through its own extension, a built-in TOTP generator, passkey support and SSH agent integration, all without an account or cloud. Syncing is up to you, for example with Syncthing or a cloud folder.
8 KeePassXC alternativesPros
- Native apps for Windows, macOS and Linux
- Browser extension, TOTP codes, passkeys and SSH agent built in
- Local encrypted database with no account or cloud
Cons
- No official mobile apps, so you need third-party KeePass clients
- Syncing between devices is left to you
Cost / LicenseFreeOpen sourceCategoriesPlatformsProton Pass is the password manager of Proton, the Swiss company behind Proton Mail and Proton VPN. Everything in the vault is end-to-end encrypted and the apps are open source. It supports passkeys, has a built-in 2FA code generator and creates hide-my-email aliases that protect your real address, with a free plan that allows unlimited logins and devices.
10 Proton Pass alternativesPros
- Free plan with unlimited logins and devices
- Hide-my-email aliases protect your real address
- Open source, end-to-end encrypted apps with a built-in 2FA generator
Cons
- Younger product with fewer advanced features than long-standing rivals
- The free plan limits the number of email aliases
Cost / LicenseFreemiumOpen sourceCategoriesNordPass is the password manager of Nord Security, the company behind NordVPN. It stores passwords, passkeys, credit cards and notes in a vault encrypted with XChaCha20 and fills them through browser extensions and apps on desktop and mobile. Premium adds a data breach scanner, password health reports, email masking and sharing, while a free plan covers basic password storage.
8 NordPass alternativesPros
- XChaCha20-encrypted vault with apps on every major platform
- Clean, simple interface for everyday use
- Autofills passwords, passkeys and cards via extensions and apps
Cons
- Breach scanner, password health and sharing require Premium
- Closed source, unlike Bitwarden or Proton Pass
Cost / LicenseFreemiumProprietaryCategoriesKeeper is a password manager with a strong focus on businesses and public-sector organizations, offering zero-knowledge encrypted vaults, role-based policies and single sign-on integration. Its apps cover desktop, mobile and browser extensions, with passkey storage, built-in 2FA codes and secure file storage. The optional BreachWatch add-on monitors the dark web for leaked credentials.
7 Keeper alternativesPros
- Zero-knowledge vaults with role-based policies for businesses
- SSO integration and admin controls for large organizations
- Secure file storage plus built-in 2FA codes
Cons
- BreachWatch dark web monitoring is a paid add-on
- The free plan is very limited compared with paid tiers
Cost / LicenseFreemiumProprietaryCategoriesEnpass is a password manager that keeps your vault on your devices rather than on its own servers, and syncs it through a cloud account you choose, such as iCloud, Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive or a WebDAV server. It supports autofill, passkeys, built-in TOTP codes and breach alerts. The desktop apps are free for personal use, with paid plans for full mobile use and a lifetime option.
10 Enpass alternativesPros
- Your vault stays on your devices, not on Enpass servers
- Syncs through your own iCloud, Google Drive, Dropbox or WebDAV
- Lifetime license available instead of a subscription
Cons
- Full mobile use requires a paid plan
- Setting up sync with your own cloud takes extra steps
Cost / LicenseFreemiumProprietaryCategoriesNordVPN is a paid VPN service from Nord Security with servers in many countries, apps for all major platforms and an audited no-logs policy. Its NordLynx protocol is built on WireGuard, and extras include Threat Protection against ads, trackers and malware, Meshnet for linking your own devices, dark web monitoring, split tunneling and a kill switch.
10 NordVPN alternativesPros
- NordLynx protocol based on WireGuard keeps connections fast
- Large server network that works well with streaming services
- Meshnet and Threat Protection go beyond a basic VPN
Cons
- Renewal prices are much higher than introductory deals
- Apps and checkout push bundled add-ons and upgrades
- Closed source apps, unlike some privacy-focused rivals
Cost / LicensePaidProprietaryCategoriesExpressVPN is a subscription VPN with servers in many countries and apps for desktop, mobile, routers and browsers. It uses its own open source Lightway protocol, runs its servers from RAM only (TrustedServer) and has had its no-logs policy audited. Features include the Network Lock kill switch, split tunneling, ad and tracker blocking, and servers that work with popular streaming services.
10 ExpressVPN alternativesPros
- Open source Lightway protocol designed for speed and reliability
- RAM-only servers and an audited no-logs policy
- Works with popular streaming services across many countries
Cons
- Priced higher than most rival VPN services
- Simplicity means fewer advanced settings than some rivals
Cost / LicensePaidProprietaryCategoriesProton VPN is the VPN service of Proton, the Swiss company behind Proton Mail. Its apps are open source, its no-logs policy has been independently audited, and the free plan has no data limit and no ads. Paid plans unlock servers in many more countries, streaming support, NetShield ad and malware blocking, Secure Core multi-hop routing and more devices.
11 Proton VPN alternativesPros
- Free plan with no data cap and no ads
- Open source apps and an audited no-logs policy from a Swiss company
- Secure Core multi-hop routing on paid plans
Cons
- Free plan offers few locations and no streaming support
- Paid plans cost more than many mainstream VPNs
- Free servers can slow down at peak times
Cost / LicenseFreemiumOpen sourceCategoriesSurfshark is a paid VPN service that allows an unlimited number of devices on a single subscription, which suits households with many devices. Apps cover Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android and browsers, with WireGuard, a kill switch, split tunneling (Bypasser) and CleanWeb ad and tracker blocking. Higher tiers bundle data breach alerts, antivirus and a private search engine.
10 Surfshark alternativesPros
- Unlimited devices on a single subscription
- CleanWeb blocks ads and trackers across devices
- Apps for every major platform, including Linux and browsers
Cons
- Renewal prices are higher than the first-term deals
- Antivirus and breach alerts require pricier tiers
- Closed source apps, unlike some privacy-first VPNs
Cost / LicensePaidProprietaryCategoriesMullvad VPN is a Swedish VPN service that asks for no email or personal details: you get a random account number and can even pay in cash or cryptocurrency. Its open source apps use WireGuard and include a kill switch, split tunneling, DNS-based ad and tracker blocking and multihop, all for a single flat monthly price with no tiers or long-term plans.
9 Mullvad VPN alternativesPros
- Anonymous account numbers with no email or personal details required
- One flat monthly price with no tiers or long-term commitments
- Open source WireGuard apps with multihop and DNS-based blocking
Cons
- No free plan and no discounts for longer subscriptions
- Not designed for unblocking streaming catalogs
- Port forwarding is not supported, a drawback for torrenting
Cost / LicensePaidOpen sourceCategoriesPrivate Internet Access (PIA) is a US-based paid VPN with open source apps, unlimited simultaneous connections and a no-logs policy that has held up in court cases and an independent audit. It supports WireGuard and OpenVPN with configurable encryption, port forwarding, split tunneling, a kill switch and MACE, which blocks ads, trackers and malicious domains.
8 Private Internet Access alternativesPros
- Unlimited simultaneous connections on one subscription
- Port forwarding and configurable encryption for advanced users
- Open source apps and a no-logs policy tested in court
Cons
- US jurisdiction is less appealing for privacy than some alternatives
- The many settings can overwhelm beginners
- Renewal prices are higher than introductory offers
Cost / LicensePaidOpen sourceCategoriesCyberGhost is a paid VPN service based in Romania, with simple apps for Windows, macOS, iOS and Android and a command-line client for Linux. Servers are labeled by use, such as streaming, torrenting or gaming, and the apps include WireGuard, a kill switch, split tunneling and a content blocker for ads and trackers. Subscriptions come with a long money-back period.
7 CyberGhost VPN alternativesPros
- Servers labeled for streaming, torrenting and gaming
- Simple apps that suit VPN beginners
- Long money-back period on subscriptions
Cons
- Linux client is command-line only
- Lowest prices require committing to multi-year plans
Cost / LicensePaidProprietaryCategoriesWindscribe is a Canadian VPN service with a free plan that includes a monthly data allowance and a choice of locations, along with paid plans and a build-your-own option billed per location. Its apps include a firewall that acts as a kill switch, split tunneling, WireGuard and R.O.B.E.R.T., a customizable DNS blocker for ads, trackers and malware.
10 Windscribe alternativesPros
- Free plan with a monthly data allowance and several locations
- R.O.B.E.R.T. offers customizable DNS blocking of ads and malware
- Build-your-own plan lets you pay only for the locations you need
Cons
- Free data allowance is too small for heavy use
- Many options and some jargon can confuse newcomers
Cost / LicenseFreemiumProprietaryCategoriesIVPN is a Gibraltar-based VPN service focused on privacy and transparency: accounts need no email, you can pay in cash or Monero, the apps are open source and the no-logs policy has been audited. It offers WireGuard, multi-hop connections, a firewall-based kill switch, split tunneling on some platforms and AntiTracker for blocking ads and trackers, and runs no affiliate program.
8 IVPN alternativesPros
- Signup needs no email and accepts cash or Monero payments
- Open source apps and an independently audited no-logs policy
- Multi-hop routing and AntiTracker blocking are built in
Cons
- Smaller server network than the big commercial VPNs
- No free plan is available
- Not designed for unblocking streaming catalogs
Cost / LicensePaidOpen sourceCategoriesCloudflare WARP, delivered through the 1.1.1.1 app, encrypts traffic between your device and Cloudflare's network and uses its 1.1.1.1 DNS resolver. Unlike a classic VPN, it does not let you pick a server country or hide your general location, so it is meant for securing connections on public networks rather than unblocking content. The base service is free, and WARP+ is a paid upgrade.
7 Cloudflare WARP alternativesPros
- Free base service with no data cap
- Encrypts traffic on public Wi-Fi with minimal setup
- Built on WireGuard and Cloudflare's network for low overhead
Cons
- Cannot pick a server country or unblock streaming content
- Does not hide your general location like a classic VPN
- All traffic goes through Cloudflare, so you must trust one company
Cost / LicenseFreemiumProprietaryCategoriesGoogle Chrome is Google's web browser, built on the open source Chromium project and available on desktop and mobile. It syncs bookmarks, passwords, history and tabs through a Google account, gives access to the large Chrome Web Store extension catalog, and includes tab groups, Incognito mode, a built-in password manager and Gemini AI features in some countries.
11 Google Chrome alternativesPros
- Largest extension catalog through the Chrome Web Store
- Smooth sync of tabs, passwords and history across devices
- Excellent site compatibility, since most sites are tested on it
Cons
- Ties browsing closely to a Google account and its data collection
- Can be heavy on memory with many tabs open
- Manifest V3 has weakened ad blockers such as uBlock Origin
Cost / LicenseFreeProprietaryCategoriesFirefox is an open source web browser developed by Mozilla and one of the few major browsers not based on Chromium, running on its own Gecko engine instead. It blocks many trackers by default with Enhanced Tracking Protection, supports extensions on desktop and Android, and syncs bookmarks, passwords and tabs through a Mozilla account. Recent versions add vertical tabs and tab groups.
11 Firefox alternativesPros
- Independent Gecko engine, an alternative to Chromium browsers
- Enhanced Tracking Protection blocks many trackers by default
- Extensions supported on desktop and Android
Cons
- Some sites tested mainly in Chrome may misbehave
- No extensions on iPhone, where it runs on WebKit
Cost / LicenseFreeOpen sourceCategoriesMicrosoft Edge is Microsoft's web browser, based on Chromium and preinstalled on Windows, with versions for macOS, Linux, iOS and Android. It runs Chrome Web Store extensions, offers vertical tabs, workspaces, tracking prevention and InPrivate browsing, and integrates Copilot in a sidebar to summarize pages and answer questions. Businesses also get an Internet Explorer mode for legacy sites.
9 Microsoft Edge alternativesPros
- Preinstalled on Windows and runs Chrome Web Store extensions
- Vertical tabs and workspaces built in
- Internet Explorer mode for legacy business sites
Cons
- Pushes Bing, Copilot and other Microsoft services insistently
- Default new tab page is cluttered with news and ads
Cost / LicenseFreeProprietaryCategoriesBrave is an open source browser built on Chromium that blocks ads, trackers and fingerprinting by default through its Shields feature. It stays compatible with Chrome extensions on desktop and adds Brave Search, private windows with Tor, the Leo AI assistant and an opt-in rewards program based on privacy-preserving ads. A VPN and Leo Premium are offered as paid extras.
12 Brave alternativesPros
- Blocks ads, trackers and fingerprinting by default
- Compatible with Chrome extensions on desktop
- Private windows with Tor built in
Cons
- Crypto wallet, rewards and other extras clutter the interface
- Some sites break when Shields block their scripts
Cost / LicenseFreeOpen sourceCategoriesOpera is a long-running web browser, now built on Chromium, that bundles features others leave to extensions: an ad blocker, a free browser VPN, messaging apps in the sidebar, workspaces, tab islands and the Aria AI assistant. It runs Chrome Web Store extensions and is available on desktop and mobile. The same company makes Opera GX, a variant aimed at gamers.
8 Opera alternativesPros
- Free built-in browser VPN and ad blocker
- Messaging apps and workspaces in the sidebar
- Runs Chrome Web Store extensions
Cons
- Built-in VPN only covers the browser, not other apps
- Many bundled features and promotions make the interface busy
Cost / LicenseFreeProprietaryCategoriesVivaldi is a Chromium-based browser from Norway, created by a co-founder of Opera, in which almost every part of the interface can be customized. It offers tab stacking and tiling, workspaces, a built-in ad and tracker blocker, notes, and integrated mail, calendar and RSS reader, with end-to-end encrypted sync. Vivaldi has chosen not to build generative AI chatbots into the browser.
10 Vivaldi alternativesPros
- Almost every part of the interface can be customized
- Built-in mail, calendar, feed reader and notes
- Tab stacking and tiling for heavy multitaskers
Cons
- The sheer number of options can overwhelm new users
- Interface can feel less snappy than leaner browsers
- Its interface code is proprietary, unlike Brave or Firefox
Cost / LicenseFreeProprietaryCategoriesTor Browser is a free, open source browser from the nonprofit Tor Project that sends your traffic through the volunteer-run Tor network, hiding your IP address from the sites you visit and your browsing from your network provider. Based on Firefox ESR, it isolates each site, resists fingerprinting by making users look alike, clears history on exit and can open .onion services.
7 Tor Browser alternativesPros
- Hides your IP address by routing traffic through the Tor network
- Fingerprinting resistance makes users look alike
- Built-in access to .onion services
Cons
- Browsing is noticeably slower because of multi-relay routing
- Many sites block Tor or show frequent CAPTCHAs
- No official app for iPhone
Cost / LicenseFreeOpen sourceCategoriesZen Browser is a free, open source browser built on Firefox that brings an Arc-style layout to the Gecko engine: vertical tabs in a sidebar, workspaces, split view, pinned essentials and a compact mode that hides the interface. It works with Firefox add-ons and Firefox Sync, and is developed by a volunteer community for Windows, macOS and Linux.
7 Zen Browser alternativesPros
- Arc-style vertical tabs and workspaces on the Firefox engine
- Split view and compact mode for a clean workspace
- Works with Firefox add-ons and Firefox Sync
Cons
- Young volunteer-run project that still has rough edges
- No mobile version is available
Cost / LicenseFreeOpen sourceCategoriesLibreWolf is a community-maintained fork of Firefox focused on privacy and user freedom. It removes telemetry and sponsored content, ships with uBlock Origin and hardened privacy settings, defaults to privacy-respecting search engines, and clears cookies and history on exit unless you change it. It is free and open source, available for Windows, macOS and Linux.
7 LibreWolf alternativesPros
- Telemetry and sponsored content removed from Firefox
- Ships with uBlock Origin and hardened privacy settings
- Keeps compatibility with Firefox add-ons
Cons
- Strict defaults, such as clearing cookies on exit, need tweaking
- Updates can arrive a little after official Firefox releases
- No mobile version is available
Cost / LicenseFreeOpen sourceCategories
