Five best Linux multimedia applications

5 great programs for video and audio on your Linux system

By Jim Lynch, ITworld |  Software, best linux multimedia applications Add a new comment

Here are five of the best multimedia programs for Linux users. All of these programs are usually available in your Linux distribution's software management tool. In this article I've linked to their sites so you can get more information if you want, but do check your software manager to download them.

5. Amarok
Amarok is a music player designed for the KDE desktop environment. It features integrated web services such as Last.fm, Ampache, MP3tunes and others. You can also use community scripts to enhance it. You can even import your iTunes database, use dynamic playlists, play audio CDs and manage your music collection.

4. Rhythmbox
Rhythmbox is the GNOME counterpart to Amarok. You can play audio CDs, search and sort your music, use playlists, and listen to internet radio. You can also display album art and transfer music to USB music players, iPods, etc. Rhythmbox also lets you install plugins to enhance its functionality.

3. Audacity
Audacity lets you record and edit sounds. It's cross platform and works on Windows and Mac as well as Linux. You can record live audio, convert tapes and records to digital format, edit MP3 and other formats, and mix tracks with different sample rates. Audacity is a powerful tool for audio editing and recording.

2. OpenShot
OpenShot is the video counterpart to Audacity. It lets you edit video on your Linux system. It supports many video, audio and image formats. You can use compositing, video transitions, 3D animated titles and lot of other stuff. OpenShot is a powerful and flexible tool for video editing in Linux.

1. VLC
VLC is the swiss army knife of multimedia programs. It plays nearly any codec, along with DVDs, Blu-Ray, CDs, etc. VLC is an absolute must-have on any Linux system. It's totally free and there are no ads or user tracking.

It's also available for Mac and Windows, making it one of the best all around multimedia programs for all platforms.

What's your take on the best Linux multimedia programs? Do you agree with this list or are there other programs you prefer? Share your thoughts in the comments below

Jim Lynch is a technology analyst and online community manager. Jim has written for many leading industry publications and sites over the years.


He also writes the Desktop Linux Reviews blog, the Eye On Linux blog and writes his own tips blog Technology Tips and Tweaks.


You can also read many original columns, reviews and roundups on JimLynch.com. These articles include some excellent free software roundups for the iPhone, iPad, Mac and other platforms.


Jim also runs two discussion forums of his own. You can visit the Desktop Linux Reviews Forum and the Collective Forum. The DLR forum focuses mainly on Linux, and the Collective is a general technology and off-topic forum. Please drop by and say hello.


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