Linux · Sound & Video
GNOME Sound Recorder
GNOME Sound Recorder is a simple audio recording app for Linux that captures voice and sound with minimal fuss.
- License
- GPL-3.0
- Latest version
- 42.0
What is GNOME Sound Recorder?
GNOME Sound Recorder is a lightweight application designed to record audio from your microphone or input device. It’s part of the GNOME ecosystem and has been included in many Linux distributions since around 2015. While not packed with features, it’s stable, well-integrated, and actively maintained as part of the GNOME project.
It’s ideal for users who need quick voice memos, lecture recordings, or basic audio captures without editing. If you’re used to Windows Voice Recorder, this does the same core job—start, stop, save—but with a cleaner interface and native Linux integration.
Compared to Windows Voice Recorder, the feel is similar: minimal UI, no frills. It lacks advanced features like noise reduction or cloud sync, but it starts fast and Just Works. If you want simplicity and privacy, it’s a solid step up from basic Windows tools.
Best for: Quick voice memos and simple audio captures on GNOME-based Linux systems.
Key features of GNOME Sound Recorder
- Records audio from the default input device
- Supports basic playback of recordings
- Saves files in OGG Vorbis format by default
- Simple, clean GNOME-style interface
- Automatic file naming with date and time
- Integrated with GNOME search and file picker
- Supports pause and resume during recording
Pros
- Lightweight and fast to launch
- No ads or telemetry
- Respects system permissions and privacy
- Plays well with GNOME desktop
- Saves space with OGG compression
Cons
- No audio editing (trim, split, effects)
- Limited export format options (OGG only)
- No background recording or system-wide capture
Windows programs GNOME Sound Recorder replaces
How to install GNOME Sound Recorder on Linux
sudo apt install gnome-sound-recordersudo apt install gnome-sound-recordersudo dnf install gnome-sound-recordersudo pacman -S gnome-sound-recorderTips for Windows users
If you're used to Windows Voice Recorder, note that GNOME Sound Recorder saves only in OGG format, not MP3 or WAV. You’ll need to convert if compatibility is needed. The keyboard shortcuts are minimal—mostly just record and stop—so expect a more manual workflow. Recordings appear in your default audio folder and are searchable by name and date.
GNOME Sound Recorder: frequently asked questions
Can GNOME Sound Recorder save in MP3 or WAV?
No, it only saves in OGG Vorbis format. You can convert OGG to WAV or MP3 using tools like ffmpeg or Audacity if needed.
Where are recordings saved by default?
They’re saved in the ~/Music/ or ~/Audio/ directory, depending on your system setup. The app doesn’t let you change the location during recording.
Does it support recording system audio?
Not directly. It only records from the selected input device, usually a microphone. Capturing system audio requires PulseAudio tools like pavucontrol.
Is there a way to trim or edit recordings in the app?
No, GNOME Sound Recorder has no editing features. For trimming or splitting, use a tool like Audacity or Ocenaudio.
Updated