Obsidian for Linux Users
Looking for a clean, feature-rich note-taking app on Linux? Obsidian is a powerhouse for anyone who loves structured thinking, personal knowledge management, or creative workflows. But to unlock its full potential, you need a proper setup and a few smart tweaks.
Let’s walk through how to install and optimize Obsidian on Linux like a pro.
Why I Chose Obsidian Over Notion, Evernote, and OneNote
After testing out multiple note-taking apps, I settled on Obsidian—and I’ve been using it daily for over a year. Why?
- Bidirectional linking makes connecting ideas effortless.
- Graph view visualizes how your thoughts interconnect.
- Tagging and search replace the need for rigid folder systems.
- Distraction-free UI helps you focus deeply on your content.
- Massive plugin ecosystem lets you customize your experience endlessly.
Whether you’re a student, writer, researcher, or developer, Obsidian adapts to your workflow.
3 Ways to Install Obsidian on Linux
1. Using AppImage (Portable & Simple)
AppImage is the easiest way to get started without system-level changes.
Steps to install:
- Visit obsidian.md and download the
.AppImage
file. - Right-click > Properties > Enable “Execute as program.”
- Double-click to launch. Done!
Pros:
- No installation needed
- Portable and self-contained
Cons: - No auto-updates
- Less secure (no sandboxing)
2. Using Snap (Auto-Updating & Secure)
Snap packages come with sandboxing and auto-updates.
Install Snap (if not already installed):
sudo apt install snapd
Then install Obsidian:
sudo snap install obsidian --classic
Pros:
- Automatic updates
- Secure, sandboxed environment
Cons: - Slightly slower launch time
- Requires Snap backend
3. Using Flatpak (Flexible & Reliable)
Flatpak works across distros and has strong community support.
Install Flatpak (if needed):
sudo apt install flatpak
Add Flathub repository:
flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo
Install Obsidian:
flatpak install flathub md.obsidian.Obsidian
Pros:
- Cross-distro compatible
- Supports app isolation
Cons: - Slightly larger in size
- Flatpak apps can have theme integration issues
Key Optimizations for Obsidian on Linux
Even though Obsidian is robust, Linux users sometimes face slowdowns, especially with heavy usage. Here’s how to make it run smoother:
1. Use a Lightweight Theme
- Go to: Settings > Appearance > Themes
- Stick to the default theme or minimal custom ones
- Avoid themes with heavy animations or transitions
2. Disable Heavy Plugins
- Some plugins like Canvas, Calendar, or Dataview can eat up resources
- Go to: Settings > Community Plugins > Toggle Restricted Mode ON
- Re-enable only what’s essential
3. Turn Off Hardware Acceleration
- Electron apps (like Obsidian) sometimes perform better without GPU rendering
- Navigate to: Settings > Appearance > Toggle Hardware Acceleration OFF
4. Keep Your Vault Lean
- Avoid storing large files (e.g., PDFs, videos) inside your vault
- Move bulky assets to an external folder and link to them if needed
5. Close Unused Electron Apps
- Obsidian runs on Electron, like VS Code or Discord
- Running multiple Electron apps can overload your system
- Try closing others while working in Obsidian
Final Thoughts
Obsidian is a game-changer, and with a proper setup on Linux, it becomes a lightning-fast, distraction-free second brain. Choose the right installation method based on your needs, and apply these optimizations to keep it running at full speed.
If you haven’t tried Obsidian yet, now’s the time.
Install. Link. Create. Think.
Your ideas deserve a place to grow.
Supercharge Your Obsidian Experience with AmazingRDP
If you want to access your notes securely from anywhere, or you’re running Obsidian across multiple devices with synced vaults, a Remote Desktop or VPS solution can give you the flexibility and performance you need—especially if you’re working remotely or managing sensitive content.
That’s where AmazingRDP steps in.
- With their fast and secure Linux VPS and RDP services, you can:
- Host your Obsidian vaults on a private server
- Access your Obsidian setup from any device, anytime
- Ensure better performance with dedicated servers.
- Collaborate or share access securely in teams.
Whether you’re a solo creator, researcher, or part of a remote team, combining Obsidian + AmazingRDP gives you a reliable digital workspace that’s accessible, private, and powerful.
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