Is Discord Compatible with Linux?
Introduction
Discord is a communication platform widely used for text, voice, and video chat. This article examines Discord’s compatibility with Linux, including the official desktop client, browser access, and known platform-specific considerations.
Key Takeaways
- Discord provides an official Linux client available as DEB, TAR, Snap, and Flatpak packages.
- Voice and video chat work on most Linux configurations.
- Screen sharing is supported but may have limitations, particularly on Wayland.
- The web version provides a full-featured alternative to the desktop client.
- Auto-updates may require manual intervention depending on the installation method.
Compatibility Overview
Discord offers an official desktop application for Linux, making it one of the more Linux-friendly communication platforms. The client provides text messaging, voice channels, video calls, and screen sharing. The application is built on Electron and supports most major Linux distributions.
The browser-based version of Discord at discord.com also provides full functionality and serves as a reliable alternative when the desktop client encounters issues.
Supported Platforms and Requirements
- Distributions: Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, Arch Linux, and most modern distributions
- Packages: DEB, TAR.GZ, Snap, Flatpak, AUR (community)
- Display Server: X11 (full support), Wayland (partial support)
- Audio: PulseAudio or PipeWire
- Browser: Chrome, Firefox, Edge (web version)
Known Limitations or Common Issues
- Screen share with audio is not consistently available on all Linux configurations.
- Wayland screen sharing may require XWayland or additional configuration.
- The DEB package does not always auto-update, requiring manual reinstallation for new versions.
- Some overlay features (game overlay) are not available on Linux.
- Rich Presence for games may have limited functionality compared to Windows.
Alternatives or Workarounds
- Use the browser version if the desktop client has issues with screen sharing or audio.
- Flatpak or Snap installations simplify updates and dependency management.
- PipeWire can resolve audio routing issues that occur with PulseAudio on some distributions.
- Element (Matrix) or Mumble are open-source alternatives with native Linux support.
Conclusion
Discord is compatible with Linux through both its official desktop client and web interface. Most core features work reliably, though screen sharing and auto-updates may require additional configuration on some distributions. Compatibility can vary depending on the Linux distribution, display server, and audio subsystem in use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Discord have a native Linux app?
Yes. Discord provides an official Linux client available as a DEB package (for Debian/Ubuntu-based distributions) and a TAR archive. It is also available through Snap and Flatpak.
Does Discord voice chat work on Linux?
Voice chat generally works on Linux. However, some users report issues with PulseAudio or PipeWire configurations that may require manual adjustment depending on the distribution.
Can Discord screen share on Linux?
Screen sharing is available on Linux, though audio sharing during screen share has historically been limited. Wayland users may encounter additional restrictions compared to X11.
Does Discord work on Wayland?
Discord can run under Wayland, but some features like screen sharing may require XWayland. Native Wayland screen sharing support has been gradually improving.
Can Discord be used in a browser on Linux?
Yes. Discord's web interface at discord.com works in Chrome, Firefox, and other major browsers on Linux with full chat, voice, and video functionality.
Does Discord auto-update on Linux?
The Discord Linux client may not auto-update as seamlessly as on Windows or macOS. Users installing via DEB may need to manually download updates, while Snap and Flatpak versions update through their respective package managers.
Is Discord available on the Steam Deck?
Discord can be installed on the Steam Deck's Linux-based SteamOS through Desktop Mode using the Discover store or by downloading the Linux client directly.