Snap Packages on Ubuntu vs. Flatpak on OpenSUSE

Snap Packages on Ubuntu vs. Flatpak on OpenSUSE: A Comparative Overview

For many years, Linux distributions have struggled with the standard software packaging and distribution problems. Traditionally, each distribution has had its package management system (like APT for Ubuntu and Zypper for OpenSUSE), leading to a fragmented landscape where software availability and compatibility vary significantly between distributions. However, recent efforts to harmonize this with universal packaging solutions like Snap and Flatpak are revolutionizing the Linux ecosystem. This blog post examines the differences, strengths, and weaknesses between Snap packages on Ubuntu and Flatpak on OpenSUSE.

Background: Universal Package Systems

Snap is a package management system that was originally designed by Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu. Snap aims to provide self-contained software packages that include their dependencies, which ensures that they work reliably on all supported distributions.

On the other hand, Flatpak is another emerging universal package system, with a focus initially fostered by the Fedora/Red Hat community. Like Snap, it also focuses on creating self-contained packages.

Both systems isolate applications to enhance security and allow developers to update apps independently of the distribution’s release cycle.

Snap Packages on Ubuntu

Ubuntu, being the pioneer behind Snap, has a more integrated experience with Snap packages. Here’s what makes Snap particularly appealing on Ubuntu:

Deep Integration: Snap is integrated directly into the Ubuntu Software Center, making it incredibly easy to find and install Snap packages.
Robust Security: Snap packages are sandboxed. This means they are isolated from the rest of the system, minimizing the risk of security vulnerabilities.
Automatic Updates: Snaps update automatically and transactionally so that every Snap update is seamless and failsafe.
Channel System: Developers can release their software in different stability versions - stable, candidate, beta, and edge. This helps users choose how cutting-edge or stable they want their software.
Large Ecosystem: Due to Ubuntu’s popularity, many developers focus on making their applications available as Snap packages, leading to a rich ecosystem.

Flatpak on OpenSUSE

OpenSUSE, while not the birthplace of Flatpak, offers robust support for this format. It presents several advantages that make it suitable for use:

Cross-Distribution: Flatpak runs on almost any Linux distribution, making it widely accessible.
Ostree Integration: Flatpak uses a version control system called Ostree to handle storage and transaction, which makes updates more efficient and minimises bandwidth and storage usage.
Sandboxing: Like Snap, Flatpak also sandboxes its applications, although it generally offers finer control over what the sandboxed application can access.
Flathub: Flatpak users often utilize Flathub, a major repository hosting a multitude of Flatpak applications, which simplifies software discovery and installation.
Decentralization: Unlike Snap’s centralized store, Flatpak allows users to set up their own repositories. This could be particularly advantageous for businesses needing tight control over package distribution and updates.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Performance: Snap packages may start slightly slower than Flatpak packages due to their squashFS format, which decompresses on the fly. Flatpak’s OSTree format is often faster in this regard.
Security: Both systems provide robust security features through sandboxing, though the implementation details and flexibility differ.
Availability of Software: Snap may have more software available in its store due to Canonical’s push in this direction, but Flatpak isn’t far behind especially with its Flathub repository.
Integration with OS: Snap is typically better integrated in Ubuntu, while Flatpak might require additional setup on OpenSUSE but generally integrates well once installed.

Conclusion

Choosing between Snap on Ubuntu and Flatpak on OpenSUSE can depend largely on individual needs and the specific Linux distribution in use. For Ubuntu users, Snaps might feel more native and tightly integrated, while OpenSUSE users might appreciate Flatpak’s efficiency and decentralized nature.

As the Linux world continues to evolve, both Snap and Flatpak are leading the way toward a more unified Linux application distribution ecosystem. Whichever path you choose, both of these packaging systems signify a step forward in making Linux software easier to install, maintain, and securely update.