Top 10 Ubuntu Programs for Daily Productivity

If you use the Linux operating system, specifically the Ubuntu distribution, you need to know the best programs for your daily use.

The applications and software mentioned in this article can also be found in most Linux distributions.

They are essential for daily use, so test them on your desktop. Follow the article about the best Ubuntu programs. Happy reading!

How to download programs for Ubuntu?

There are several ways to download programs on Ubuntu. The first one is through the Software Center, which is an app store, like Play Store and App Store.

On the left side there is a list with categories. You can search for the application you are looking for. Once you select it, click on "Install". 

The computer will ask for your computer password for security reasons.

Another way is through the terminal. You need to open it and then enter the command:

sudo apt-get install [application name]

What are the main Linux programs?

There are several essential Linux programs. We have gathered a list by categories below:

• Text: OpenOffice Writer and AbiWord;
• Spreadsheets: GNumeric and OpenOffice Calc;
• Image editing: GIMP;
• Internet browsers: Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome;
• Audio editing: Audacity;
• Music player: Sayonara;
• Audio streaming: Nuvola and Spotify;
• Video player: VLC;
• Office activities: LibreOffice.

Below, we have gathered a list of the 10 best programs for Ubuntu. Check it out!

10 best programs for Ubuntu

Here you can find a series of essential programs to use on your Ubuntu desktop:

1. Google Chrome

Google Chrome is one of the most widely used web browsers. On Ubuntu, there are several complete and functional alternatives, but Chrome still stands out.

To install the program, you need to access the official browser website, as it cannot be done through the Software Center. 

The procedure is quite simple, even though it doesn't take place through the Ubuntu app store.

2. Spotify

Spotify is an audio streaming platform, where you can find podcasts, playlists, and music from thousands of artists. 

It is the best option available in this regard, not only because it is available on Linux, but on most operating systems. 

There is another option called Nuvola that allows you to use other music streaming services, such as Deezer, Spotify itself, and Amazon Music.

3. VLC

VLC is a great video player option. Its main quality is that it plays most existing media codecs, proving to be quite versatile.

Additionally, the possible configurations make the user experience personalized. For example, you can increase the audio volume by up to 200%.

Like Linux, VLC is also an open source media player. Thus, its features are constantly optimized and expanded.

VLC can be found in the Software Center. Enjoy!

4. Dropbox

Dropbox is a cloud storage application. For Linux, it is the ideal choice. Its integration happens smoothly, so you don't need to keep configuring it to use on your computer with Ubuntu.

You can find the program in the Software Center and also on the Dropbox website itself, just choose the .DEB file.

5. GIMP

Many people who use Linux have difficulty finding an image editing software with many features, like Adobe programs, for example.

GIMP is the most complete image editor on Ubuntu, so it is our recommendation in this regard.

Another interesting and advantageous point about GIMP is that it is a free program. Additionally, it can be found in the Software Center.

6. Kdenlive

Kdenlive is the best video editing option for Linux. It is not full of features, but it is still quite efficient and fulfills its purpose.

To install the application, open your terminal and type the code to add the repository: 

sudo add-apt-repository ppa:sunab/kdenlive-release

Then, enter the code:

sudo apt-get update

And finally, the command responsible for installing the program:

sudo apt-get install kdenlive.

7. LibreOffice

LibreOffice is the best office application for Ubuntu, since it has full compatibility and comes pre-installed with the distribution.

Following the structure of Linux programs, LibreOffice is also open source. Within it, you can use:

• document editor;
• spreadsheets;
• PowerPoint-style presentation;
• math tool;
• chart tool.

8. GNOME/Unity: Tweak Tools

Both tools serve for adjusting the desktop experience. That is, from them, you can customize the appearance of your system, applying themes and other settings

For Unity desktops, the tool to be installed is Unity Tweak, which can be found in the Software Center. 

For GNOME desktops, you need to download GNOME Tweaks, also available in the Software Center. 

9.  Geary

Geary is a great email option for Ubuntu. It has a clean design and works quickly.

The only negative point of the email is that it cannot be highly personalized. To install Geary, use the command via terminal:

sudo apt install geary

10. Rambox

Rambox is the best communication program for Ubuntu. This is because, from it, you can access many popular messaging apps, such as WhatsApp, Messenger, Skype, Slack, and many others.

To install, access the official download link.

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Conclusion

There are several widely-used programs in the most popular operating systems, such as Windows.

These same programs can be used on Ubuntu. When the same application is not available, it is possible to find replacements of equal weight or even better.

Now you know the best programs for Ubuntu and can use them in your daily life.

If you enjoyed this blog, we also recommend the following reading: "Emulators for Linux: 8 excellent options to use".

To find more relevant information about the Linux universe, access our blog!