Free and open source software (FOSS) represents the foundational philosophy of Linux, playing a significant role in its community. Nevertheless, while this ideal remains crucial, the reality is that some of the best applications available for specific tasks still lack FOSS counterparts.
There are five proprietary applications that I consistently install on my Linux machines. It’s important to note that although they are not open source, they are all free for personal use.
Steam (and Proton)
Proton Makes Linux a Genuine Gaming Platform
Steam is synonymous with gaming on Windows, but its significance multiplies on Linux, particularly thanks to Proton.
Proton is a compatibility layer built on Wine, DXVK, and VKD3D, enabling Windows games to run on Linux with minimal setup required from the user.
If you wish to enjoy gaming on Linux without needing to dual-boot into Windows, utilizing Steam is essential. The introduction of the Steam Deck, which operates on SteamOS, has significantly advanced Proton’s compatibility. A quick check on ProtonDB shows that most games are now rated “Playable” or better, a remarkable shift from the past.
That said, there are some trade-offs. The Steam client and Proton integration are closed source, which raises DRM concerns, and a few games with rigorous anti-cheat measures may not function properly. However, for the majority of your gaming library, the ease of use far outweighs these disadvantages.
DaVinci Resolve
Professional Video Editing with Few Open Source Alternatives
DaVinci Resolve by Blackmagic Design is a comprehensive suite that combines editing, color grading, visual effects, and audio within a single tool. Most importantly, the free version is genuinely free—no watermarks, time limits, or locked features.
While other quality editors like KdenLive exist for Linux, DaVinci Resolve is a well-regarded industry standard, especially known for its advanced color-grading options.
You might encounter minor issues related to codecs and compatibility, but for the vast majority of my editing tasks, it has functioned flawlessly.
JetBrains IDEs
Facilitating Language Learning Through Smart Tools
Credit: Jordan Gloor / How-To Geek
JetBrains provides various integrated development environments (IDEs) tailored for different programming languages, including IntelliJ IDEA for Java, PyCharm for Python, and WebStorm for JavaScript. These IDEs are celebrated for features like smart code completion, error highlighting, and seamless refactoring, simplifying the development process.
Although I usually code using Vim or VSCodium, I often turn to a JetBrains IDE when learning something new.
These IDEs offer helpful features that streamline the process of getting accustomed to a new syntax or language quirks. Their guiding support is invaluable for a beginner.
While the premium versions of these IDEs come with restrictions and aren’t free, the free tier, which is suitable for personal use, remains an excellent option.
Discord
The Unmatched Standard in Communication
Credit: Hannah Stryker / How-To Geek
Discord has emerged as the primary platform for chat, voice, and video communication, becoming the go-to hub for gaming communities, open-source projects, and more, particularly after shifts in other platforms like Reddit.
The Nitro subscription enhances its utility for me by allowing quick file transfers to friends.
Despite my efforts, I find it impossible to replace Discord due to its extensive features (aside from missing end-to-end encryption), reliability, and widespread acceptance.
Spotify
Your Music Companion
Credit: Dibakar Ghosh | How-To Geek
Having set up several self-hosted media servers, including one constantly running in my car and another at home, I rely on open-source software that performs reliably and simply. However, the extensive library and music-shuffling capability of Spotify is hard to beat.
No matter how much I try, I end up installing the Spotify app on my Linux devices because it remains irreplaceable.
When Closed Source Is the Better Option
While fostering a healthy ecosystem necessitates the use of open source software, it’s not uncommon for proprietary applications to outperform their FOSS counterparts in specific cases. Opting for proprietary solutions doesn’t imply a failure of FOSS; rather, it reflects the need for practicality in decision-making.
Thankfully, the landscape is improving, with open-source alternatives becoming increasingly robust. Nowadays, I rely on about five proprietary applications on Linux, a significant decrease from a decade ago. Perhaps in the near future, this gap will continue to close.
