How to Install WhatsApp on Ubuntu, Linux Mint, and Debian (Complete Guide)

While WhatsApp Web can be accessed easily through browsers like Chrome or Firefox, many Linux users prefer using a dedicated desktop application. A standalone app feels more organized, does not get mixed with multiple browser tabs, and often provides more consistent notifications.

Since there is still no official WhatsApp Desktop client for Linux, users of Ubuntu, Linux Mint, Debian, and other popular Linux distributions often look for alternatives that provide a more desktop-like experience. Fortunately, there are several unofficial WhatsApp applications that run well on Linux and can be installed easily.

This guide covers two recommended WhatsApp applications that work across various Ubuntu versions, including Ubuntu 18.04, 20.04, 22.04, 23.04, 23.10, 24.04, and 24.10, as well as Debian-based systems.

1. WhatsDesk

WhatsDesk is a lightweight, unofficial WhatsApp desktop client that wraps WhatsApp Web into an application window. Even though it is based on the web interface, it provides a cleaner and more focused experience compared to using a browser tab.

Installing WhatsDesk with Snap

Snap is the easiest method for installing WhatsDesk. Snap is available by default on Ubuntu 18.04 and newer, and can also be installed on Debian.

sudo snap install whatsdesk

Installing WhatsDesk Using a .deb Package

If you prefer a traditional installation method, WhatsDesk provides a downloadable .deb file:

https://zerkc.gitlab.io/whatsdesk/

After downloading the package, install it with:

sudo dpkg -i whatsdesk_0.2.18_amd64.deb

If there are missing dependencies, fix them with:

sudo apt install -f

WhatsDesk Source Code

You can review or compile the application from its GitLab repository:

https://gitlab.com/zerkc/whatsdesk

Uninstalling WhatsDesk

If you installed WhatsDesk using Snap, remove it with:

sudo snap remove whatsdesk

If you installed WhatsDesk using a .deb package, remove it with:

sudo apt remove whatsdesk
sudo apt autoremove

2. WhatsApp for Linux

WhatsApp for Linux is another unofficial client written in C++ and actively maintained, making it one of the most reliable options available. It aims to stay updated with WhatsApp’s latest features and interface changes.

Installing WhatsApp for Linux Using a .deb Package

Users of Ubuntu 18.04 up to 24.10, Linux Mint, and Debian can install the .deb package provided on GitHub.

Release page:

https://github.com/eneshecan/whatsapp-for-linux

After downloading the file, install it with:

sudo dpkg -i whatsapp-for-linux_*.deb
sudo apt install -f

Building from Source Code

If you want to compile the application manually, the full source is available at:

https://github.com/eneshecan/whatsapp-for-linux

Uninstalling WhatsApp for Linux

To uninstall WhatsApp for Linux, run:

sudo apt remove whatsapp-for-linux
sudo apt autoremove

Conclusion

Although Linux does not have an official WhatsApp Desktop application, users of Ubuntu, Linux Mint, Debian, and other Linux distributions still have reliable alternatives. WhatsDesk and WhatsApp for Linux are two recommended options that are stable, easy to install, and suitable for everyday use.

WhatsDesk is ideal for users who want something lightweight and simple. WhatsApp for Linux is better suited for users who prefer an actively maintained application with a more modern interface.

Both applications run well on Ubuntu versions from 18.04 to 24.10 and on Debian-based systems. If you have experience using other WhatsApp clients for Linux, you are welcome to share your recommendations in the comments for future discussions.