Totem review
A free, open-source Linux player for local files, streaming, discs, subtitles, and playback controls.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Totem is a desktop video player for Linux, intended for the GNOME desktop environment. It covers common playback scenarios, including local video files, Internet streams, DVDs, and VCDs. Its controls also address practical viewing needs: users can load external subtitles, change video language, adjust playback speed from 0.75× to 1.75×, correct the video aspect ratio, and configure audio and video output. Totem is a focused choice for Linux users who want basic media playback without a paid plan.
Its feature depth is concentrated around playback and lightweight media tools. Totem can take screenshots and create screenshot galleries, while plugins can extend its functionality. This makes it more than a minimal file opener, but it remains centered on watching and adjusting video rather than on editing, cataloging, or broader media-management workflows. The combination of disc playback, streaming, subtitles, and speed controls suits personal desktop viewing, while the GNOME focus gives it a natural fit within that environment.
Pricing is straightforward: Totem is free and open source, with no paid tiers described. Format coverage is tied to the GStreamer plugins installed by the user's Linux distribution, so playback depends partly on that system configuration. Users who need a Linux player with flexible playback controls, subtitle loading, screenshots, and plugin support should consider Totem. Those seeking wider platform coverage, a product independent of distribution-level codec setup, or a broader media-management tool should choose an alternative.
Totem pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Supports local files, Internet streams, DVDs, and VCDs
- Includes subtitles, language selection, speed, aspect-ratio, and screenshot tools
- Free and open source with plugin support
- Where it doesn't
- Supported formats depend on installed GStreamer plugins
- Intended for the GNOME desktop environment
- Platform support is limited to Linux
Totem fact sheet, pricing and score →
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