Chromium as a Linux alternative to DAZN
Updated
Our verdict
Chromium is the correct tool for DAZN on Linux because DAZN is a web service, not a desktop app. It handles HTML5 video and account sessions well. However, Chromium lacks built-in Widevine DRM by default, which DAZN requires for most live sports. You must install the proprietary Widevine plugin separately or use a Chromium build that includes it. If you can get DRM working, Chromium offers a stable, fast experience with hardware acceleration. It is suitable for users comfortable managing browser extensions and plugins who want a lightweight, open-source base for their streaming needs.
- License
- BSD-3-Clause and LGPL-2.1+ and…
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 155.0.8059.39 (October 6, 2026)
- Rating
- —

What works the same
- Both rely on HTML5 standards for video playback.
- Both manage user accounts and session cookies for login.
- Both support hardware-accelerated video decoding for performance.
- Both require a stable internet connection for live streams.
What is different
- Chromium does not include Widevine DRM out-of-the-box, unlike the Chrome browser.
- DAZN is a specific content service, while Chromium is a general-purpose browser.
- Chromium requires manual configuration for DRM and media codecs on some distros.
- DAZN has no native Linux app, so Chromium is the primary access method, not a replacement app.
Opening your DAZN files
DAZN is a streaming service and does not use local files for content consumption. There are no DAZN-specific file formats to open or export. Any downloaded media would be standard video files (like MP4 or MKV) if the service allowed offline downloads, which it generally does not for live sports. Chromium handles standard web media formats natively.
Switching from DAZN to Chromium, step by step
- Install Chromium from your distribution's repository or Flathub.
- Install the Widevine Content Decryption Module plugin for Chromium.
- Enable hardware acceleration in Chromium settings.
- Navigate to the DAZN website and log in to your account.
- Verify that live streams play without buffering or black screens.
- Configure your system's audio and video output for TV or multi-screen use.
Key features of Chromium
- Fast, multi-process architecture with sandboxing
- Support for modern web standards (HTML5, WebAssembly)
- Extensive extension library via Chrome Web Store
- Syncs with Google accounts (if manually configured)
- Developer tools for debugging and performance analysis
- Hardware acceleration and responsive UI
- Tab isolation and crash resistance
- Built-in PDF viewer and media support
How to install Chromium on Linux
flatpak install flathub org.chromium.Chromiumsudo apt install chromium-browsersudo apt install chromiumsudo dnf install chromiumsudo pacman -S chromiumsudo zypper install chromiumFrequently asked questions
Will DAZN work immediately after installing Chromium?
No. DAZN uses Widevine DRM. Standard Chromium builds do not include this proprietary component. You must install the Widevine plugin separately or use a distribution package that bundles it.
Is Chromium better than Chrome for DAZN?
Chrome includes Widevine by default, making setup easier. Chromium is more open-source but requires extra steps for DRM. Choose Chromium if you prefer an open-source base and are willing to manage the plugin.
Does Chromium support casting to a TV?
Chromium supports casting via the Google Cast protocol if you have a compatible Chromecast device or TV. It does not have a native 'Miracast' or 'AirPlay' implementation built-in for all systems.