What Is Snap and When Is It Worth Using on Linux
Advantages, the trade-off of slower startup, and the controversy over its Canonical-controlled repository.
Snap is the universal package format developed by Canonical (the company behind Ubuntu) — it comes pre-installed as standard on Ubuntu, and works similarly to Flatpak: it packages an application with what it needs to work on any compatible distribution.
Installing and using it
sudo snap install app-name
It updates automatically in the background by default, with no need for you to manually check whether there's a new version.
The most talked-about trade-off: slower startup
Applications in Snap format usually take somewhat longer to open the first time than the equivalents installed traditionally — it has improved quite a bit since the early versions, but it's still a noticeable difference in some cases.
A point that generates debate: the single repository
Unlike Flatpak (with Flathub managed by the community and the possibility of independent repositories), Snap's main repository (the Snap Store) is controlled solely by Canonical. This has generated some controversy, especially when Ubuntu started replacing traditional packages with Snap versions of programs like Firefox, without every user asking for it.
When specifically is it worth using Snap?
It makes particular sense if you use Ubuntu (it comes already integrated with no additional setup), or if you need specific software only available in that format — some proprietary applications and games are preferentially distributed this way.
Tip: if a specific application feels slow in Snap format and it exists on Flatpak, trying that alternative usually resolves the feeling of slowness without losing the advantages of a universal format.
Frequently asked questions
Why do Snap apps take longer to open?
Because of how they package and mount their dependencies on each startup — it has improved quite a bit compared to older versions, but it's still a noticeable difference against traditional packages in some cases.
Why is it controversial that Ubuntu uses Snap for programs like Firefox?
Because it replaces traditional packages with the Snap version without the user explicitly asking for it, and some people prefer the performance or integration of the traditional version of the program.
Do I need to use Snap if I don't have Ubuntu?
It isn't mandatory — Flatpak is an equally valid alternative and more widespread on other distributions. Snap makes more sense specifically within the Ubuntu ecosystem, where it comes integrated as standard.