AppImage, Snap vs Flatpak: A Humble Comparison

Years ago, when it comes to Linux software management, many people get confused --or even scared. It doesn't work like Windows at all. Where are the single executable file to install app on Linux? How do I install app on Linux? Can I install app on Linux without being connected to the internet?

Now people get used to how Linux software management works. There is Android's Play Store where you can install an app, directly from an app store. Linux software management works similar to Android play store. There is an online repository where applications stored, and you have to connect to the internet to retrieve and install them onto your device.

But after years, there are some approaches to create a portable, windows like software management in Linux. The last most popular are AppImage, Snap and Flatpak. This time I want to share my personal experience with those Linux software package formats. As an user.

AppImage

This is what can I say the real portable Linux app. All you need to do is download the file, give an executable permission, run the file by click. Same just like Windows EXE works.

Snap

Snap is a portable, universal software packaging, originally developed by Canonical to use on Linux system. Unlike AppImage, you have to install snap runtime or service on your Linux, and install the snap packages from command line, still similar to traditional APT and or RPM.

Flatpak

Flatpak is kind of similar to Snap. You have to install flatpak runtime to be able to install and run flatpak packages onto your Linux system. You have to type command to install the flatpak packages.

File Size

As an example, I tried Mozilla Firefox in three different format: AppImage, Snap and Flatpak. The AppImage comes with 89 MB, Snap with 87 MB and oddly, Flatpak with 556 MB.

Installation Process

AppImage is the easiest among all. Download the AppImage, give permission, execute. Snap is easy, just like traditional APT/RPM. And Flatpak is the most difficult. I have to re-enter my Linux root password several times, everytime flatpak is installing some kind of dependencies.

Loading Time

Suprisingly, Flatpak loads really fast, just like a native DEB/RPM package. AppImage at the second, and Snap is the slowest.

Personal POV

I ain't a developer, just a regular Linux user. Honestly, among the three, I prefer AppImage to be the easiest portable Linux format to use.

I don't have to install and run additional runtime or service. Everything works just like a standalone executable file. Even though it doesn't have automatic update feature, I still find AppImage is the real winner. For now.

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