5 minutes read
This article isn’t just about installing software—it’s about the potential pitfalls, how to turn them to your advantage, and how you can actually test out open source tools without wrecking your whole system. It’s the perfect lead-in to the next Lightroom alternative coming up soon, so there’s really no excuse left not to give it a go.
Did you know that “installing software” isn’t just a matter of clicking ‘next’ ? Even though many of these methods have been around for years, most people stick to the basics and never look beyond the classic installer.
But whether you’re on Windows, macOS, or Linux, you’ve got a whole toolbox at your disposal: from traditional setups and portable apps to AppImages, Flatpaks, Snaps, and app stores galore. Each way has its own strengths, quirks, and – let’s be honest – its own share of “Open With” surprises.
Why Installation Method Matters: Windows vs. The Rest
On Windows, how you install apps really does matter – and not just for neat freaks.
- Classic installs (exe/msi):
Every time you install (and remove) software, the Windows registry picks up more and more junk.
Over time, this digital landfill grows quietly in the background – think “Registry Chernobyl.” - Portable apps:
No registry bloat. Delete the folder, it’s gone.
Want to keep Windows fast and tidy? Go portable where possible.
On macOS and Linux, it’s a different story:
- No central registry.
Old configs linger in your user folder, but your system itself stays snappy.
Clean-up is easy and low-risk.
To the skeptics who say, “But my PC never gets slower!”
The truth is:
Most people just don’t notice gradual slowdowns, and Windows is designed to hide a lot.
That “fresh install feeling” you get after a clean Windows setup?
Yep, that’s what a registry free of leftovers feels like – most folks just forget what smooth actually was.
OSP Wisdom:
You don’t notice the weight of your digital backpack… until you finally take it off.
Below you’ll find a handy comparison of the main installation types for each system, what sets them apart, and when you might (or might not) want to use them.
So before your system turns into a digital junk drawer, read on and pick the right tool for the job – and your peace of mind.
Windows: From Old-School to Pocket-Sized
| Method | Pros | Cons | Open With? | Why Use It? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard install | Full integration, quick, auto-updates | Registry bloat, leftovers after uninstall | Always works | Stable, everything “just works” |
| Portable apps | No install needed, easy to carry, no registry mess | No auto-updates, may lack integration | Sometimes manual setup | Keep things tidy, USB toolkit |
| Store apps | Auto-updates, safer, sandboxed | Less control, sometimes missing features | Works fine | Secure, easy to manage |
macOS: Drag, Drop, and Occasionally… Drag Again
| Method | Pros | Cons | Open With? | Why Use It? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| .app (just drag it) | Clean, easy to remove, no registry, user prefs | Sometimes needs extra frameworks or licenses | Usually available | Quick install, simple clean-up |
| App Store | Auto-updates, secure, sandboxed | Less control, sometimes slow with updates | Works great | Safe, easy to keep up-to-date |
| Portable (outside Applications) | Same as above, runs from anywhere | True “portable” apps are rare | Might need to select manually | Run from USB, quick testing |
Linux: Pick Your Flavor (and Mind the Sandboxing)
| Method | Pros | Cons | Open With? | Why Use It? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard repos | Integrated, fast, updates via package manager | Config files may linger, possible dependency mess | Always works | Seamless, classic integration |
| AppImage | No install, super clean, single file, portable | No auto-updates, manual integration, bigger file | Needs manual setup | Zero bloat, portable, no deps |
| Flatpak | Universal, sandboxed, always up-to-date | Large size, integration can be clunky, sandbox issues | Sometimes manual | Latest versions, more secure |
| Snap | Universal, sandboxed, auto-updates | Bulky, slow to start, integration limited | Sometimes manual | Like Flatpak, mainly Ubuntu |
Choose Wisely – Your Workflow Depends On It
So there you have it:
Whether you want deep system integration, a squeaky-clean setup, or the latest and greatest features, the way you install your software can shape your whole workflow. From classic installers to sandboxed packages and ultra-portable apps, every method comes with its own set of benefits—and, yes, a few headaches.
And let’s not forget the “Open With” dilemma:
Choosing portable, Flatpak, Snap, or AppImage often means a little extra tinkering to get your files opening where you want them. Classic installs are usually the most ‘plug & play,’ while newer or portable methods can sometimes leave you clicking around for the right app.
Extra Reason: Multiple Versions, No Headaches
Another great reason to use portable apps, AppImages, Flatpaks, or similar formats?
You can run multiple versions of the same program side by side without conflicts.
Let’s say you want to keep your main photo editor (GIMP 3.0, for example) installed system-wide, but still need to run an older version (like 2.10.25 just for that one plugin that won’t work anywhere else). With AppImage or portable versions, you can have them all at your fingertips—no registry clashes, no overwriting, no “DLL hell” or broken dependencies.
Perfect for:
- Testing new features without breaking your workflow
- Keeping old plugins or scripts running
- Using different settings or workspaces for different projects
In short: Portable formats let you “have your cake and eat it too.” Why settle for just one version?
Bottom line:
Pick the method that fits your workflow – not just your storage drive.
The right install can make your daily routine faster, cleaner, and a whole lot less frustrating.
Because in the end, how you install is just as important as what you install.
OSP wisdom for the day: “A tidy system is a happy system—unless you’re into digital archaeology.”
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I’m on Kubuntu and I really like Appimages from say Github for a latest development and Discover for a stable application, but sometimes these can be out of date. Not used Snap but I understand its not very popular.
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Hey Barrie, well, since you asked—personally, I’m still a fan of AppImages over snap or flatpak apps (yep, those are in the mix too). Sadly, Canonical—the folks behind Ubuntu and its descendants—seem to be flip-flopping between snap and flatpak lately. Always fun to see what today’s flavor will be. But honestly, AppImages just work. I’m still running my GIMP 2.10.25 with plugins as an AppImage, and these days I also use the regular distro GIMP 3.x on the side. The good news? We have options. The less-good news? Sometimes the “options” are more like “strong suggestions.” So, keep an eye out in your software app—Discover, in my case—and when you click on an application, you’ll usually get a choice between the standard install, snap, or flatpak.
Thanks for your comment, Barrie—always appreciated!
Cheers, Marc
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appimages also allow you to experiment. Currently in development for darktable is Agx. I can use this incredible module using another. Appimage that includes It
It may be a year before Agx is officially included in a Darktable release.
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