LollypopLinux
vs
MusicBeeWindows
Lollypop as a Linux alternative to MusicBee
Updated
Our verdict
Lollypop can replace MusicBee for users who mainly want to play and organize a local collection on GNOME, especially if they appreciate a lightweight UI and online metadata. It handles common formats, offers gapless playback, and has basic tag editing. However, it lacks advanced podcast support, sophisticated smart‑playlist creation, and extensive plugin architecture that MusicBee users rely on. Therefore it suits casual listeners or those who prefer a simple GNOME‑centric player, but power users who need deep library control or podcast management may find it insufficient.
- License
- GPL-3.0+
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 1.4.48 (October 10, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Both support MP3, FLAC, AAC, and OGG formats
- Both provide gapless playback
- Both allow basic tag editing
- Both fetch online metadata (lyrics, artwork)
- Both have customizable UI elements
What is different
- Lollypop has no podcast subscription or playback
- Lollypop lacks advanced smart‑playlist logic and auto‑tagging
- Lollypop does not support plugins or extensive extensions
- Lollypop is GNOME‑centric, not cross‑desktop
- MusicBee offers a richer library management interface and desktop integration
Opening your MusicBee files
MusicBee stores its library in a proprietary database (.mdb or .sqlite) and playlist files (.m3u, .xspf). Lollypop does not natively import these formats; you would need to export MusicBee playlists to a standard format like M3U or XSPF and rebuild the library manually. Tag data can be edited in Lollypop but existing tags from MusicBee are not automatically migrated.
Switching from MusicBee to Lollypop, step by step
- Export your MusicBee playlists to M3U or XSPF via the export option.
- Export your library metadata to a CSV or use a third‑party script to extract tags.
- Open Lollypop and import the M3U/XSPF playlists.
- Use Lollypop’s tag editor to reapply any missing metadata.
- Add your music folders to Lollypop’s library settings to scan all files.
- Verify playback and adjust ReplayGain settings if needed.
Key features of Lollypop
- Lightweight GNOME‑centric UI
- Party mode auto‑selects party playlists
- Fullscreen couch mode for remote control
- Online fetching of lyrics, artwork, biography
- Native ReplayGain support
- Supports common audio formats (MP3, FLAC, OGG, AAC)
How to install Lollypop on Linux
flatpak install flathub org.gnome.Lollypopsudo apt install lollypopsudo apt install lollypopsudo dnf install lollypopsudo pacman -S lollypopsudo zypper install lollypopFrequently asked questions
Does Lollypop support podcast feeds?
No, Lollypop does not have built‑in podcast subscription or playback features.
Can I use Lollypop on non‑GNOME desktops?
Lollypop is designed for GNOME but can run on other desktop environments; however, some UI elements may not integrate as well.
Is Lollypop free?
Yes, Lollypop is released under the GPL‑3.0+ license and is available free of charge in major Linux distributions.
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