ONLYOFFICE Desktop EditorsLinux
vs
LibreOfficeWindows
ONLYOFFICE Desktop Editors as a Linux alternative to LibreOffice
Updated
Our verdict
ONLYOFFICE is a solid replacement for LibreOffice if you prioritize native .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx compatibility over legacy formats. It handles word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations well, with a modern tab-based interface. However, it lacks LibreOffice's dedicated database (Base) and vector graphics (Draw) modules. If your workflow relies heavily on ODF files, complex database management, or scientific formula editing, you will miss key features. For users working primarily with Microsoft Office formats or needing cloud sync, ONLYOFFICE is a strong, functional alternative.
- License
- AGPL-3.0-only
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 10.0.0 (October 13, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Free and open-source office suite for Linux
- Includes editors for text documents, spreadsheets, and presentations
- Supports offline editing and local file storage
- Allows password protection and digital signatures on documents
What is different
- Lacks a dedicated database management module like LibreOffice Base
- No built-in vector graphics editor comparable to LibreOffice Draw
- Native focus on Office Open XML (.docx/.xlsx) rather than ODF
- Includes AI integration features (translation, OCR) not present in standard LibreOffice
Opening your LibreOffice files
ONLYOFFICE is fully compatible with Office Open XML formats (.docx, .xlsx, .pptx). It can open and save files in these formats without loss of fidelity. While it likely supports ODF (.odt, .ods, .odp) for interoperability with LibreOffice, the primary design goal is MS Office compatibility. If you rely on specific ODF features or complex macro structures unique to LibreOffice, you should test migration carefully, as some advanced formatting or database links may not transfer perfectly.
Switching from LibreOffice to ONLYOFFICE Desktop Editors, step by step
- Install ONLYOFFICE Desktop Editors via your package manager or Flathub
- Open existing LibreOffice documents to verify formatting integrity
- Convert critical .odt/.ods/.odp files to .docx/.xlsx/.pptx if MS Office compatibility is required
- Configure cloud sync (Nextcloud/ownCloud) if you previously used LibreOffice online services
- Test specific workflows like charts and tables to ensure data accuracy
- Keep LibreOffice installed temporarily for legacy database or drawing needs
Key features of ONLYOFFICE Desktop Editors
- Full Office Open XML support (.docx, .xlsx, .pptx)
- Tab‑based UI for multiple documents
- AI chat and AI agents for translation, OCR, form auto‑fill
- Plugin system for image editing, code highlighting, Markdown conversion
- Password protection and digital signatures
- Offline editing with optional cloud sync (Nextcloud, ownCloud, etc.)
- Cross‑platform (Linux, Windows, macOS)
How to install ONLYOFFICE Desktop Editors on Linux
flatpak install flathub org.onlyoffice.desktopeditorsFrequently asked questions
Does ONLYOFFICE replace LibreOffice Base for database work?
No. ONLYOFFICE does not include a dedicated database management module. If you use LibreOffice Base for creating forms or managing relational databases, you will need a different tool or stick with LibreOffice for that specific task.
Can I edit vector graphics in ONLYOFFICE?
ONLYOFFICE includes a Diagram Viewer, but it is not a full vector graphics editor like LibreOffice Draw. For complex vector illustration or diagramming, you would need a separate application like Inkscape.
Is ONLYOFFICE free to use?
Yes, ONLYOFFICE Desktop Editors is free and open-source under the AGPL-3.0 license. You can use it for personal or commercial purposes without paying a license fee.
2 other alternatives to LibreOffice
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WPS OfficeWPS Office is a proprietary office suite for Linux that includes Writer, Presentation, and Spreadsheets…FlatpakWPS Office vs LibreOffice