How to Install SMPlayer on Linux Mint 21 or 20

Exploring the capabilities of SMPlayer reveals a world of seamless media playback tailored for Linux Mint users. This guide will demonstrate how to install SMPlayer on Linux Mint 21 or 20, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup. Renowned for its user-friendly interface and robust feature set, SMPlayer stands out as a preferred choice for both novice and advanced users.

Key Features of SMPlayer:

Wide Format Support: Plays virtually any video and audio format.
Customizable Interface: Offers a range of skins and icon themes.
Advanced Playback Options: Includes speed control, video, and audio filters.
Subtitle Support: Finds and synchronizes subtitles effortlessly.
Streamlined Integration: Seamlessly integrates with YouTube.
Resource Efficiency: Optimized for low system resource usage.

Transitioning smoothly from its installation on Linux Mint, users will discover SMPlayer’s blend of performance and versatility, making it an essential tool for media enthusiasts.

Install SMPlayer on Linux Mint 21 or 20 via APT

Step 1: Update Linux Mint Before SMPlayer Installation

Begin by updating your Linux Mint system. This step ensures that all existing packages are current, minimizing the risk of conflicts during installing SMPlayer.

Execute the command below in the terminal:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

This command first updates the package lists for upgrades and then upgrades all the installed packages to their latest versions. It’s a crucial step for maintaining system stability and security.

Step 2: Select APT Method to Install SMPlayer on Linux Mint 21 or 20

Method 1: Install SMPlayer via APT Default Repository

Linux Mint’s default repository includes SMPlayer, facilitating a straightforward installation. The command for installing SMPlayer from the default repository is:

sudo apt install smplayer

This method is ideal for users who need a stable and tested version of SMPlayer without requiring the latest features. It installs the version of SMPlayer that has been verified for compatibility with Linux Mint 21 or 20.

Method 2: Install SMPlayer via PPA

For users seeking the latest version of SMPlayer, installing via the Personal Package Archive (PPA) maintained by Alexander Pozdnyakov is recommended. This method ensures access to the most recent updates and features.

Begin by adding the PPA with the command:

sudo add-apt-repository ppa:alex-p/smplayer -y

Adding this PPA to your system allows you to install packages maintained by Alexander Pozdnyakov, which are often more up-to-date than those in the default repository.

After adding the PPA, it is essential to update your package list to include the new repository:

sudo apt update

Finally, install SMPlayer along with its themes to enhance the experience:

sudo apt install smplayer smplayer-themes -y

This command installs both SMPlayer and a collection of themes, allowing for the player’s appearance to be customized.

Install SMPlayer on Linux Mint 21 or 20 via Flatpak Method

Step 1: Verify Flatpak Installation

First, to install SMPlayer using Flatpak, ensure that Flatpak is installed on your Linux Mint system. Flatpak typically comes pre-installed on Linux Mint.

If you have removed it or are unsure of its presence, verify its installation by running:

flatpak --version

This command checks and displays the version of Flatpak installed, confirming its presence on your system. Flatpak is a third-party package manager that allows for sandboxed and isolated installation of applications, ensuring a secure and stable environment.

Step 2: Add or Enable the Flathub Repository

The next step involves adding or enabling the Flathub repository. Flathub is a significant repository for Flatpak applications.

Use the following command to add Flathub to your system:

sudo flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo

This command safely adds the Flathub repository if it’s not already present. It ensures you have access to a wide range of applications, including the latest version of SMPlayer.

Step 3: Install SMPlayer via Flatpak Command

Once Flatpak and Flathub are set up, proceed to install SMPlayer. Execute the command below to install SMPlayer via Flatpak:

flatpak install flathub info.smplayer.SMPlayer -y

Launch SMPlayer on Linux Mint 21 or 20

Once SMPlayer is installed on your Linux Mint system, multiple methods exist to open the application. These methods cater to different user preferences, whether you favor command-line interactions or graphical user interfaces.

CLI Commands to Launch SMPlayer

To open SMPlayer from the command line, use the straightforward command:

smplayer

This command is effective for users who have installed SMPlayer through the APT or PPA method. It’s a quick and direct way to launch the application from the terminal.

If SMPlayer was installed using Flatpak, the launch command differs. Open SMPlayer with the following command:

flatpak run info.smplayer.SMPlayer

This command calls explicitly the Flatpak version of SMPlayer. It’s essential for users who opted for the Flatpak installation method to ensure they access the correct version of the application.

GUI Method to Launch SMPlayer

Users who prefer a graphical interface can quickly launch SMPlayer without terminal commands. Follow this path:

Taskbar > Sound & Video > SMPlayer

SMPlayer icon in Linux Mint taskbar. — Click the SMPlayer Icon to Launch.

Tips on Getting Started with SMPlayer on Linux Mint 21 or 20

Now that you’ve installed and launched SMPlayer on your Linux Mint system, it’s time to explore its features and customize it to your preferences. This section will cover some tips to help you get started with SMPlayer.

General SMPlayer Tips with Linux Mint

Remember playback position: SMPlayer can remember the playback position of your media files. To enable this feature, go to Options > Preferences > General and check the box for “Remember time position.”
Customize keyboard shortcuts: You can tailor keyboard shortcuts to your preferences by visiting Options > Preferences > Keyboard and mouse.
Adjust audio and video synchronization: If you experience audio-video sync issues, you can adjust synchronization by pressing the + and - keys on your keyboard.
Video equalizer settings: Enhance your viewing experience by adjusting the video equalizer settings. You can access the video equalizer through Video > Equalizer.

SMPlayer Customizations on Linux Mint

Change the interface theme: Customize SMPlayer’s appearance by selecting a theme. Go to Options > Preferences > Interface, and choose from the available themes.
Modify the font and size of subtitles: To change the font and size of subtitles, navigate to Options > Preferences > Subtitles and make the desired adjustments.
Customize the OSD (On-Screen Display): Personalize the On-Screen Display by visiting Options > Preferences > OSD and adjusting the settings to your liking.

Other SMPlayer Tips on Linux Mint

Add external subtitle files: To use an external subtitle file with your video, drag and drop the subtitle file onto the SMPlayer window or go to Subtitles > Load and select the file.
Take screenshots: Capture a still image from a video by pressing the S key on your keyboard or by selecting Video > Take Screenshot.
Stream YouTube videos: SMPlayer has built-in YouTube support, allowing you to search and stream videos directly from the application. Access this feature by clicking Options > YouTube browser.
Create a playlist: Organize your media files by creating playlists. You can access the playlist feature by going to Play > Playlist or by pressing Ctrl + L.

SMPlayer open on Linux Mint desktop. — SMPlayer: Open and Ready on Linux Mint.

Managing SMPlayer on Linux Mint 21 or 20

Remove (Uninstall) SMPlayer from Linux Mint

If SMPlayer is no longer required, uninstall it from your Linux Mint system. The uninstallation process varies depending on the initial installation method.

APT Remove Method for SMPlayer

For users who installed SMPlayer via APT, use the following command to remove the application and its themes:

sudo apt remove smplayer smplayer-themes

This command uninstalls SMPlayer and its associated themes from your system. It’s necessary to free up space and remove unused software components.

Removing the SMPlayer PPA:

If you installed SMPlayer using a PPA and do not plan to use the software in the future, it’s advisable to remove the PPA as well. Use this command:

sudo add-apt-repository --remove ppa:alex-p/smplayer -y

Removing the PPA ensures that your system won’t receive updates for SMPlayer anymore. It’s a clean-up step to maintain the system’s repository list.

Flatpak Remove Method for SMPlayer

For users who installed SMPlayer through Flatpak, the uninstallation command is different. Execute this command to remove SMPlayer:

flatpak uninstall --delete-data info.smplayer.SMPlayer

Conclusion

In this guide, we navigated the seamless process of installing SMPlayer on Linux Mint, introducing you to a versatile media player with many features. Whether you opted for the PPA or Flatpak method, you now have a tool tailored to your media playback needs. SMPlayer’s flexibility and user-friendly interface make it an excellent choice for Linux Mint users. As you delve into its capabilities, remember that uninstalling is just as straightforward if your needs change. Enjoy the rich, customizable experience SMPlayer offers and maximize your media on Linux Mint.