Software Manager review
A free Linux app store, not a workflow tool for managing applications.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Software Manager, also known as mintinstall, is a free, open-source Linux Mint desktop application for discovering and installing desktop software. It is aimed at Linux users who prefer a graphical app-store interface over lower-level package-management tools. The application presents popular software from configured repositories and supports Flatpak applications, giving Linux Mint users a central place to browse and install free software.
Its main strength is platform fit. Software Manager is distributed as part of the Linux Mint ecosystem and works with Linux desktop software repositories alongside Flatpak. It can list Flatpaks from multiple Flatpak repositories, which broadens the available catalog within its desktop-focused scope. The experience is centered on discovery and installation rather than on managing business processes, and its Python development aligns with the Linux Mint desktop environment.
For buyers evaluating application-management software, the distinction is important. Software Manager does not provide scoring rubrics, reviewer collaboration, applicant portals, workflow automation, reporting analytics, or payment collection. Organizations that need structured application review or operational reporting should choose a product designed for those workflows instead. Linux Mint users who want a free graphical way to find and install desktop applications should find the product’s focus appropriate; teams seeking an applicant or portfolio management system should look elsewhere.
Software Manager pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Graphical browsing and installation for Linux desktop applications
- Supports Flatpak applications from multiple Flatpak repositories
- Fits naturally into the Linux Mint desktop software ecosystem
- Where it doesn't
- Linux-only availability limits platform coverage
- No scoring rubrics or reviewer collaboration workflows
- No applicant portals, automation, or reporting analytics
Software Manager fact sheet, pricing and score →
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