Snap Packages vs Flatpaks: Which Software Packaging Format Should You Choose?

Package managers are essential tools for Linux users, simplifying the processes of installing, updating, and removing software. Each Linux distribution employs its own package manager, such as APT for Ubuntu and Debian, DNF for Fedora and RPM-based distros, and Pacman for Arch Linux. This diversity can lead to limitations, as these managers typically do not operate across different distributions.

Enter universal package managers, which allow software installation across any Linux distribution. These systems package all necessary libraries and dependencies within a single format, ensuring consistent application performance regardless of the underlying distribution. Currently, the two most prominent universal packaging formats are Snap and Flatpak. In this article, we will delve into their distinct features to help you choose the best option for your needs.

Understanding Snap

Snap is a universal package format created by Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu. It transforms application distribution by bundling software with all required dependencies, enabling it to run seamlessly on any Linux system equipped with Snap. This self-contained nature minimizes compatibility issues typically associated with traditional package managers like APT.

With Snap, system updates have a diminished chance of causing application failures, as app updates generally do not interfere with the operating system. While this architecture reduces the risk of compatibility problems, users should note that they can still arise.

Installing and Using Snap

Snap is pre-installed on most modern Ubuntu versions, but it can also be manually set up on other distributions. After installation, users can easily install applications either through graphical tools like the Ubuntu Software app or via the command line with:

sudo snap install app-name

Although manual sideloading of snaps is possible, the Snap Store serves as the primary repository, offering a wide array of applications, including popular software like Visual Studio Code, Discord, and many games.

Introduction to Flatpak

Flatpak is another universal packaging solution for Linux, designed to ensure that applications can run uniformly across various distributions without compatibility concerns.

Similar to Snap, Flatpak encapsulates applications along with their dependencies and executes them within isolated sandboxes, enhancing both stability and security. However, its approach to handling dependencies differs: Flatpak utilizes shared runtimes, which are common libraries available to multiple applications. This methodology streamlines installation processes, reduces redundancy, and halves update times.

For application distribution, Snap centralizes everything under the Snap Store, while Flatpak employs a decentralized model, allowing the creation of independent remotes beyond Flathub. This flexibility enhances Flatpak’s ecosystem.

Flatpak prioritizes user control, allowing for detailed permission settings on what resources an app can access—such as files, networks, and hardware—using tools like Bubblewrap.

Installing and Using Flatpak

If Flatpak is not pre-installed on your Linux distribution, setting it up typically involves two steps: first, installing the Flatpak framework, and then adding a remote repository, such as Flathub.

To initiate Flatpak installation on your system, simply use your existing package manager, as shown below for Ubuntu/Debian users:

sudo apt install flatpak

Following that, add the Flathub repository, which is the primary source for Flatpak applications:

flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo

Now, you are ready to install applications from Flathub using this straightforward command:

flatpak install flathub [application-name]

The Flatpak system efficiently manages dependencies by downloading necessary runtimes automatically in the background.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Snap and Flatpak

To make an informed decision regarding Snap and Flatpak, let’s examine their respective pros and cons.

Advantages of Snap:

Simpler for developers to build and manage packages compared to alternatives.
Supports a wide range of applications, from CLI tools to desktop software.
Robust security measures using AppArmor-based sandboxing.
Automatic background updates for applications.
Superior integration with Ubuntu due to its Canonical design.
Wide availability of proprietary software (e.g., Slack, Spotify, VS Code).

Disadvantages of Snap:

Longer startup times for applications, particularly after booting.
Larger package sizes, as dependencies are bundled with each package.
Centralized ecosystem, entirely maintained by Canonical.
Configuration can be challenging, often necessitating manual adjustments for system access.

Advantages of Flatpak:

Wider range of desktop applications available compared to Snap.
Shared runtimes minimize redundancy and speeding up updates.
Faster application launch times, offering near-native performance.
Strong security protocols with robust sandboxing implemented.
Diverse permission settings allowing tailored control for users.

Disadvantages of Flatpak:

Increased disk usage due to multiple runtimes and applications.
Setup of repositories can be more intricate compared to standard package managers.
Configuration can be complex for applications requiring broad system access.
Primarily focused on desktop applications, with less emphasis on server or CLI tools.

Core Differences Between Snap and Flatpak

While both Snap and Flatpak seek to facilitate cross-distribution software installations, their philosophies and operational ecosystems differ significantly.

Snap, created by Canonical, operates through a centralized Snap Store. It enforces automatic updates and is compatible with both GUI and CLI applications. However, this comes with larger package sizes and potentially slower startup times due to including all dependencies within its packages.

In contrast, Flatpak is community-driven and decentralized, primarily leveraging Flathub as its most prominent repository. It mainly targets desktop software, employs shared runtimes to decrease package size, and generally offers quicker application launches compared to Snap. Unlike Snap, Flatpak does not mandate automatic updates, granting users discretion over when to refresh their applications.

Choosing Between Snap and Flatpak

Selecting between Snap and Flatpak largely depends on your specific distribution and usage patterns. Snap tends to perform optimally on Ubuntu, while Flatpak provides seamless integration across various desktop environments, making it a versatile choice with greater software availability and stability.

Moreover, many Linux enthusiasts opt to utilize both Snap and Flatpak concurrently, as certain applications are more readily available through one system than the other. The two platforms can coexist without conflict, allowing users the flexibility to install the best options for their needs.

Source & Images