LinphoneLinux vs Microsoft Teams (full desktop calling support)Windows

Linphone as a Linux alternative to Microsoft Teams (full desktop calling support)

Updated October 28, 2026

Our verdict

Linphone is not a good replacement for Microsoft Teams if you rely on persistent messaging, file sharing, or document collaboration. It excels as a lightweight, open-source SIP client for voice and video calls with screen sharing, ideal for users in SIP-based environments. However, it lacks Teams' integrated chat, team collaboration features, and cloud storage. Linphone suits small teams or individuals needing standards-based calling without vendor lock-in, but not organizations depending on Teams’ full collaboration suite. Use it only if your primary need is real-time communication via SIP and you can work around missing productivity tools.

Feature parity30%

License: GPL-3.0
Price: Free
Latest version: 6.2.3
Rating: —

Install Linphone

What works the same

Both support voice and video calls with screen sharing
Available on Linux, Windows, and mobile platforms
Offer cross-platform sync for call history and contacts
Support encryption for secure communications
Work behind NAT using STUN/TURN for connectivity

What is different

Linphone lacks persistent group and direct messaging
No real-time document collaboration or shared workspace
No built-in file sharing or cloud storage integration
Does not support large organizational structures or directory services like Active Directory
No integration with Office 365 or enterprise identity systems

Opening your Microsoft Teams (full desktop calling support) files

Linphone does not handle Microsoft Teams files such as chat logs, meeting recordings, or collaborative documents. There is no import or export functionality for Teams-specific data formats. If recordings are made in Linphone, they are stored locally in standard media formats like WAV or MP4, which can be manually shared but do not integrate with Teams' ecosystem.

Switching from Microsoft Teams (full desktop calling support) to Linphone, step by step

Install Linphone from Debian or Ubuntu repositories using apt
Configure a SIP account with your provider or set up a self-hosted PBX
Import contacts manually or sync via address book integration
Test voice and video calls with STUN/TURN settings if behind firewall
Train users on managing calls and screen sharing without persistent chat

Key features of Linphone

SIP client for voice and video calls
Supports standard codecs like Opus, G.711, and H.264
Works with any SIP provider or self-hosted PBX
Cross-platform support for Linux, Windows, macOS, and mobile
Simple, distraction-free interface focused on calling
Support for STUN and TURN servers for NAT traversal

How to install Linphone on Linux

Ubuntu / Mintsudo apt install linphone

Debiansudo apt install linphone

Frequently asked questions

Can Linphone replace Microsoft Teams for video meetings?

Only partially. Linphone supports video calls and screen sharing via SIP, but lacks meeting scheduling, persistent chat, and participant management features central to Teams.

Does Linphone support screen sharing like Teams?

Yes, Linphone supports screen sharing during calls, but the feature is basic compared to Teams’ application- or window-specific sharing and annotation tools.

Can I use Linphone in a large organization like with Teams?

No. Linphone is designed for SIP-based calling, not enterprise collaboration. It lacks user management, centralized deployment, and integration with directory services needed in large teams.