How to Install the Latest Version of Handbrake on Ubuntu

When it comes to converting and backing up video, there are few tools as powerful as Handbrake. It’s long been a favorite among Linux users because it’s simple to use, and it’s capable of most video tasks.

While you can find Handbrake in the default Ubuntu repositories, it’s often outdated. This guide will walk you though enabling a PPA to get the latest Handbrake releases.

In this tutorial you will learn:

  • How to Enable the Handbrake PPA
  • How to Install Handbrake on Ubuntu

Handbrake on Ubuntu

Handbrake on Ubuntu.

Software Requirements and Conventions Used

Software Requirements and Linux Command Line Conventions
Category Requirements, Conventions or Software Version Used
System Ubuntu
Software Handbrake
Other Privileged access to your Linux system as root or via the sudo command.
Conventions # – requires given linux commands to be executed with root privileges either directly as a root user or by use of sudo command
$ – requires given linux commands to be executed as a regular non-privileged user

Install the Latest Version of Handbrake on Ubuntu step by step instructions

  1. Enable the Handbrake PPA

    The Handbrake PPA is key here. It contains the latest Handbrake packages that you’ll need. So, the first step in getting the latest version of Handbrake on Ubuntu is enabling the PPA on your system. To do so, run the following command.

    $ sudo add-apt-repository ppa:stebbins/handbrake-releases

    Next, update Apt to make the freshly added repository available.

    $ sudo apt update


  2. Install Handbrake on Ubuntu

    Once Apt is done updating its sources, you’re ready to install Handbrake. Unlike the version in the default Ubuntu repositories, this build is broken into two parts. The handbrake-cli only contains the command line version of Handbrake.

    You probably want the handbrake-gtk package that offers the full graphical interface for Handbrake. Install it alone with any recommended packages for full support.

    $ sudo apt install --install-recommends handbrake-gtk

Conclusion

You’re ready to start working with Handbrake. Because you enabled the official PPA from the Handbrake developers, you’ll continue to receive regular updates, as long as you keep Ubuntu updated.