Discord is a proprietary freeware instant messaging and VoIP social platform which allows communication through voice calls, video calls, text messaging, and media.
There is a Linux client for Discord but it’s proprietary software.
For open source enthusiasts there are viable alternatives which we explore. In this roundup, we focus on terminal-based software only. There’s a separate roundup for GUI-based clients.
Here’s our verdict captured in a legendary LinuxLinks-style ratings chart. Only free and open source software is eligible for inclusion here.
Let’s explore the 5 programs at hand. For each application we have compiled its own portal page, a full description with an in-depth analysis of its features, together with links to relevant resources.
| TUI Discord Clients | |
|---|---|
| Discordo | Configurable Go-based Discord TUI with keyboard-driven messaging |
| Oxicord | Rust TUI with inline images, Markdown and vim-style navigation |
| Concord | Feature-rich Discord TUI with messaging, voice and screen sharing |
| vimcord | Lightweight Rust client for keyboard-focused Discord text chat |
| rdircd | Access Discord conversations through a conventional IRC client |
This article has been updated to reflect the changes outlined in our recent announcement.
Important Note
These applications are unofficial and are not endorsed by Discord. Discord’s policies prohibit automated user accounts, commonly known as self-bots, outside its approved bot and OAuth2 mechanisms. Use of unauthorised clients may result in account restrictions or termination.
Users should also exercise care when an application requests authentication credentials or account tokens. A Discord token can grant access to an account and should be treated as sensitive information.
The projects covered here differ in their authentication methods, feature support and approach to Discord’s services. Their inclusion does not imply that Discord permits their use.
 Explore our carefully curated directory of recommended free and open source software, covering every major software category.The directory forms part of our extensive collection of articles for Linux enthusiasts. It includes hundreds of detailed reviews, together with free and open source alternatives to proprietary software from companies such as Google, Microsoft, Apple, Adobe, IBM, Cisco, Oracle, and Autodesk. LinuxLinks also covers interesting projects worth exploring, Linux-compatible hardware, free programming books and tutorials, and much more. Know a useful free and open source Linux application that we haven’t covered? Tell us about it using our submission form. |
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