Popsicle review
A free, open-source Linux flasher built for parallel USB imaging.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Popsicle is a free, open-source Linux utility for creating bootable or otherwise flashed USB media from image files. It is aimed at Linux users who need to write one image to several USB devices, particularly when parallel flashing is more useful than a single-device workflow. The project is maintained under the Pop!_OS organization, with System76 identified in its repository license and package metadata. Its device workflow includes image selection, connected-device selection, and flashing.
Its main distinction is parallel flashing: Popsicle can write to multiple USB devices at the same time rather than limiting the workflow to one device. The GTK graphical front end provides a visual workflow, while the command-line front end supports terminal-based operation. Connected devices can refresh dynamically, and SHA-1 support is included. This combination gives Popsicle a focused interface choice without changing its central purpose: preparing several USB devices from image files.
Packaging is available through AppImage and Flatpak, while the installation instructions also describe building and installing the CLI, GTK interface, or both locally on Linux. The published category specifications show Linux support but no Windows or macOS application, no multiboot feature, and local-only image downloads. Choose Popsicle if parallel USB flashing and Linux support match your workflow. Choose another tool if you need a Windows or macOS app, built-in image downloads, or multiboot creation.
Popsicle pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Flashes multiple USB devices in parallel
- Offers both GTK and command-line interfaces
- Available through AppImage and Flatpak packaging
- Where it doesn't
- Linux-only, with no Windows or macOS app
- Does not provide multiboot functionality
- Image files must be available locally
Popsicle fact sheet, pricing and score →
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