Flatpak vs Snap vs AppImage in 2025: Which one to install and when

If you're new to Linux, you've probably seen the names Flatpak vs Snap vs AppImage when installing an application. What exactly are they, and which one should you use? Below, we'll tell you all about these three alternatives and when it's best to use one or the other. This way, you can install the tools you need on your Linux computer to perform countless tasks.

Flatpak vs Snap vs AppImage: The universal formats in Linux

Installing applications and programs on a Windows computer It's relatively easy. Almost everything you need is in the Microsoft Store; and if not, you can download the .exe file of the app you want to install. Double-click on it, follow the instructions in the installation wizard, and you're done.

And what about Linux? A few years ago, installing any application quickly and without conflicts wasn't easy. Today, in 2025, this is a reality thanks to three formats that have matured and defined the universal packaging ecosystem: Flatpak vs. Snap vs. AppImage. We add "versus" because each is based on a different philosophy. Which one should you use?

Before continuing, it's important to remember that each Linux distribution has its own repository of compatible applications. Installing from there guarantees the application will function correctly within the system. However, Flatpak, Snap, and AppImage offer different solutions for installing applications independently of the base system. Why use these alternatives?

Basically, it's about convenience. These three contenders are universal package formats that allow you to install applications on any Linux distribution. They prevent users from having to rely on traditional repositories like APT (Debian/Ubuntu) or RPM (Fedora). Thanks to them, installing and updating applications is much simpler, especially considering the diversity of the Linux ecosystem. (See the article) The best Linux distros if you come from the Microsoft ecosystem).

Flatpak: the standard for desktop applications

Let's start with Flatpak, a format created by Red Hat that has become the standard for desktop applications. It has a central repository, FlatHub, which is like the Play Store for Linux, compatible with GNOME, KDE, and other graphical interfaces. You'll find almost any modern app you're looking for., in its most recent official version. Two more advantages of Flatpak are:

• It allows you to run applications on a isolated environment (sandbox) with run times shared. These reduce packet size and prevent system conflicts.
• App updates only download the parts that have changed, saving bandwidth and time.

Snap: the best option for closed servers and workstations

Flatpak was born as a decentralized response to Snap, a format developed and controlled by Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu. Its centralized model, as well as the "slowness" with which some applications run, has led few distributions to include it in their system. For many users, Snap's true strength lies in enterprise environments., such as servers and workstations.

• Like Flatpak, Snap uses sandboxing to run applications in controlled and more secure environments.
• It performs automatic, complete, and irreversible updates, which is very useful in business environments.
• ‎ reliable and modern support by Canonical, something that companies greatly value.
• It has its own store, Snap Store, and works on many distros, besides Ubuntu.

AppImage: The portable executable of Linux

In the Flatpak vs Snap vs AppImage debate, AppImage is the only one that offers a portable solution: simple and requiring no installation. AppImage doesn't install on the system and doesn't require administrator privileges. Simply download the file, run it, and you're done.You can have several programs on a USB drive or folder, and use them without filling your system with libraries or metadata.

• One application = one file. Maximum simplicity, no installation or decentralized dependencies.
• Manual updatesYou need to be ready to download the latest version of the app from its official website.
• You can carry it on a USB drive and run it on any Linux system.
• It doesn't have an official store, but many developers publish AppImages on their sites or on AppImageHub.

As you can see, Flatpak vs Snap vs AppImage is a confrontation that's still going strong in 2025. However, it's no longer about deciding which is the best; rather, what really matters is which one best suits the user's needsAll three alternatives have improved and matured considerably, offering effective solutions in different scenarios.

Flatpak vs Snap vs AppImage: Which one to install and when

Thus, Flatpak is the most recommended option in end-user desktop environmentsIn fact, many popular distributions, such as Linux Mint and ZorinOS, include it as a default repository. Its FlatHub store features verified software, guaranteeing the stability and reliability of each application. Furthermore, because it shares runtimes, packages take up less space and are updated faster, without duplicating unnecessary dependencies.

For its part, Snap is most useful if you use Ubuntu or any of its variants.because it integrates natively into the system. It's true that its packages are larger, but this avoids conflicts, as they include all the necessary dependencies. And, as we've already seen, it's ideal for business environments or serverswhere automated updates are essential.

Finally, in the Flatpak vs Snap vs AppImage trio, the latter stands out for its portability. So You can use it anytime, whether you prefer Flatpak or SnapThis format is perfect for testing applications or maintaining fixed versions without system intervention. It allows you to carry the software you need with you and run it on any Linux distribution.

Personally, I prefer Flatpak and AppImage for accessing and installing applications on my Linux system. Of course, it's always best to use each distribution's own repository to ensure the stability of the installed apps. But it's good to know that the vast Linux ecosystem offers a wide range of options: Flatpak vs. Snap vs. AppImage. They are universal alternativesNo matter which distro you use, they will always be there to give you access to the applications you need, in their official and most up-to-date versions.