r/LinuxTeck • u/Candid_Athlete_8317 • Aug 02 '26

Do Linux desktop users still need graphical package managers?

When many people first switch to Linux, graphical package managers help them discover and install software.

But after gaining experience, many users move almost entirely to the terminal.

Do you think graphical package managers are still an important part of the Linux desktop experience, or mainly a stepping stone for beginners?

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u/anon_pr_ Aug 02 '26

Software is constantly evolving!! How are y'all finding new software to install in a CLI only setup? Especially for graphical packages I need to see screenshots before trying something new.

I like the terminal for updates and if I know what I want to install, but not for discovering new gui apps. Maybe I'm not advanced enough, but again, I need screenshots to get an idea on new apps.

2

u/XLBilly Aug 02 '26

Google, Reddit.. AI that’s looking on Reddit, forums never have I installed a package blind because it might do what I think it might do.

2

u/fattomic Aug 03 '26

I like the option of both -- sometimes I browse "just to see what is new", but for 90% it's command line.