How to Install HandBrake on Ubuntu 24.04
HandBrake on Ubuntu 24.04 installs using either the `apt` package manager or the Flatpak system.
HandBrake is a free program that changes video files from one type to another, making them work on more devices or take up less space. A transcoder, like HandBrake, is simply a tool that converts video formats.
This program lets you make big video files smaller without losing much quality, which is great for saving storage or sharing videos. You can also change video details like size and how good the picture looks.
You can put HandBrake on your Ubuntu 24.04 system using the software in Ubuntu’s own stores or by getting it from Flatpak, which often has newer versions.
Install HandBrake on Ubuntu 24.04 using the terminal. Open your terminal and run `sudo apt update && sudo apt install handbrake` for the repository version, or `sudo apt install flatpak && flatpak install flathub fr.handbrake.ghb` for the Flatpak version.
Install HandBrake via APT
The APT package manager is one way to install HandBrake on Ubuntu 24.04; it’s often the simplest approach for running the program. This installation method uses Ubuntu’s built-in software sources, which contain over 100,000 software packages. Open your terminal, update your software lists with `sudo apt update`, and then install HandBrake using the command `sudo apt install handbrake`.
Using the APT package manager from Ubuntu’s default repositories is an efficient way to install HandBrake. Here’s how:
Run the following command:
sudo apt update
sudo apt install handbrake
After installing HandBrake, you can start the application by typing `handbrake-gui` in your terminal or by finding the HandBrake icon in your Ubuntu 24.04 desktop apps center.
handbrake

Install HandBrake via Flatpak
Installing HandBrake on Ubuntu 24.04 via Flatpak requires setting up Flatpak first, as it doesn’t come pre-installed. Flatpak offers a secure way to run applications independently, meaning they don’t interfere with your main system. A couple of commands in your terminal will get Flatpak ready for HandBrake installation.
First, install the Flatpak package manager. Then, you can install HandBrake. Here’s how to get Flatpak ready:
Update and install Flatpak.
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
sudo apt install flatpak
Next, add the Flatpak repository to Ubuntu.
Install HandBrake to convert video files between many formats. You can install HandBrake version 1.7.1 on Ubuntu 24.04 by opening the terminal and typing the command `sudo apt update && sudo apt install handbrake`.
flatpak install flathub fr.handbrake.ghb
Once installed, you can launch it using the command below or open the app in the desktop apps center.
flatpak run fr.handbrake.ghb
Uninstall the app using the command below.
flatpak uninstall flatpak run fr.handbrake.ghb
That should do it!
Conclusion:
Getting HandBrake set up on Ubuntu 24.04 is straightforward and can significantly improve how you manage your video files. Here are the key points to remember:
- Open-source Software: HandBrake is a free tool that supports various video formats.
- Multiple Installation Methods: You can easily install HandBrake using APT or Flatpak, depending on your preference.
- Customization Options: HandBrake offers various video and audio customization settings, including resolution and codec adjustments.
- Improved Multimedia Management: Ideal for compressing videos for storage or compatibility, HandBrake helps you manage your media efficiently.
- Easy to Use: With a user-friendly interface, launching HandBrake is simple, whether from the command line or the desktop app center.
How do I install HandBrake on Ubuntu?
Once installation is finished, you can search for HandBrake in your system’s search bar or look for its icon. HandBrake will launch as shown.
Is there a version of HandBrake for Linux?
HandBrake is available for Linux, Mac, and Windows on the official HandBrake website. This is the only official download source for HandBrake. For more information, see Where to get HandBrake.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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