Linphone as a Linux alternative to Zoom
Updated
Our verdict
Linphone can replace Zoom for users who need basic HD video/audio calls, screen sharing, and simple chat, especially in environments that prefer open‑source software and SIP‑based infrastructure. It works well for small teams, developers, or anyone comfortable configuring SIP accounts and NAT traversal. However, it lacks Zoom's large‑scale meeting management, built‑in webinar tools, integrated cloud recording, and extensive file‑sharing ecosystem, so it is not a drop‑in substitute for enterprises that rely on those features.
- License
- GPL-3.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 6.2.3
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- HD video and audio calling
- Screen sharing support
- Cross‑platform availability (Linux, Windows, macOS, mobile)
- Chat messaging during calls
What is different
- No native support for webinars or large‑scale meetings (Zoom handles hundreds of participants)
- Recording is limited to local capture; no cloud recording service
- File sharing is limited to simple drag‑and‑drop, no integrated cloud storage
- User management, breakout rooms, and polling are missing
- Relies on SIP providers; Zoom provides its own managed service
Opening your Zoom files
Zoom recordings are stored in proprietary MP4 containers with optional Zoom‑specific metadata. Linphone cannot open or export those files directly; you would need to use a generic video player or conversion tool to view them. There is no built‑in import of Zoom chat logs or shared files.
Switching from Zoom to Linphone, step by step
- Install Linphone from the Debian/Ubuntu repositories (sudo apt install linphone)
- Create or obtain SIP credentials from a provider or self‑hosted PBX
- Configure STUN/TURN servers in Linphone settings for reliable NAT traversal
- Import any contact lists manually or via vCard
- Test a video call with a colleague to verify audio/video quality
- Set up screen‑sharing and adjust privacy settings as needed
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
sudo apt install linphonesudo apt install linphoneFrequently asked questions
Can Linphone handle meetings with more than 20 participants?
It can technically connect many participants, but performance and UI become unwieldy; Zoom is more suited for large groups.
Is there a cloud‑recording option in Linphone?
No, Linphone only offers local recording; you would need to capture the screen or use third‑party tools for cloud storage.
Do I need a separate SIP server to use Linphone?
You can use any public SIP provider or set up your own PBX; a server is required but not provided by Linphone itself.
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