How to install gqrx on linux

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Last updated: April 4, 2026

Quick Answer: Installing Gqrx SDR on Linux typically involves using your distribution's package manager or compiling from source. The easiest method for most users is to search for 'gqrx' in their software center or use a command like `sudo apt install gqrx` on Debian/Ubuntu-based systems, or `sudo dnf install gqrx` on Fedora.

Key Facts

Gqrx is a free and open-source software defined radio (SDR) receiver.
It supports a wide range of SDR hardware, including RTL-SDR, HackRF, and USRP devices.
The primary method of installation is via a distribution's package manager.
Compilation from source is an alternative for advanced users or if specific versions are needed.
Gqrx requires a running X server and typically uses Qt for its graphical interface.

Overview

Gqrx is a versatile and user-friendly software defined radio (SDR) receiver that allows users to explore the radio spectrum using their computer. It's particularly popular among hobbyists, engineers, and students for its ability to decode various radio signals, from FM broadcasts to amateur radio communications and beyond. Installing Gqrx on a Linux operating system is a common task for those looking to get started with SDR. The process can vary slightly depending on your specific Linux distribution, but generally involves leveraging package managers or compiling the software from its source code.

Installation Methods

Using Package Managers (Recommended)

The most straightforward and recommended method for installing Gqrx on most Linux distributions is by using their respective package managers. These tools handle dependencies, updates, and uninstallation efficiently.

Debian/Ubuntu and Derivatives (e.g., Linux Mint, Pop!_OS)

For systems based on Debian or Ubuntu, you can typically install Gqrx using the APT package manager. Open a terminal and run the following command:

sudo apt updatesudo apt install gqrx

The apt update command refreshes your package list, ensuring you get the latest available version. The apt install gqrx command then downloads and installs Gqrx and any necessary dependencies.

Fedora and Derivatives (e.g., CentOS, Rocky Linux)

On Fedora and its related distributions, you'll use the DNF package manager. Open a terminal and execute:

sudo dnf check-updatesudo dnf install gqrx

Similar to APT, dnf check-update updates the package information, and dnf install gqrx installs the software.

Arch Linux and Derivatives (e.g., Manjaro)

Arch Linux users can install Gqrx from the official repositories using Pacman:

sudo pacman -Syusudo pacman -S gqrx

pacman -Syu synchronizes package databases and updates installed packages, while pacman -S gqrx installs Gqrx.

Other Distributions

For other Linux distributions, consult their documentation for the appropriate package manager command (e.g., zypper install gqrx for openSUSE). Many distributions also offer Gqrx through graphical software centers, which can be found by searching for 'Gqrx SDR'.

Compiling from Source

If Gqrx is not available in your distribution's repositories, or if you need a specific version or want to contribute to development, compiling from source is an option. This method requires more technical expertise and involves installing build tools and dependencies manually.

Prerequisites

Before compiling, you'll need to install essential development tools and libraries. The exact list can be found in the Gqrx source code documentation, but typically includes:

A C++ compiler (like GCC or Clang)
CMake build system
Qt development libraries (Qt5 or Qt6)
SoapySDR library and its development headers
Other specific libraries depending on Gqrx's features and your SDR hardware.

You can usually install these using your package manager. For example, on Debian/Ubuntu:

sudo apt install build-essential cmake qtbase5-dev libsoapysdr-dev

On Fedora:

sudo dnf install gcc-c++ cmake qt5-qtbase-devel libsoapysdr-devel

Compilation Steps

Download the Source Code: Obtain the Gqrx source code, usually from its official GitHub repository or website. You can often clone the repository using Git:
```
git clone https://github.com/gqrxusrp/gqrx.git
```
Create a Build Directory: Navigate into the cloned directory and create a separate build directory:
```
cd gqrxmkdir buildcd build
```
Configure with CMake: Run CMake to configure the build process. This step checks for dependencies and generates build files:
```
cmake ..
```
You might need to specify paths to libraries or Qt if they aren't found automatically.
Build the Software: Compile the source code using Make:
```
make
```
This process can take some time.
Install Gqrx: Once the compilation is successful, install Gqrx to your system:
```
sudo make install
```

After installation, you should be able to launch Gqrx from your application menu or by typing gqrx in the terminal.

Post-Installation and Hardware Setup

Once Gqrx is installed, you'll need to configure it to work with your SDR hardware. This usually involves:

Installing Hardware Drivers: Ensure that the drivers for your specific SDR dongle (e.g., RTL-SDR, HackRF) are installed and recognized by your Linux system.
Configuring SoapySDR: Gqrx relies on the SoapySDR library to interface with various hardware. If you compiled from source, ensure SoapySDR was correctly installed. If installed via package manager, it's usually handled automatically.
Launching Gqrx: Start Gqrx. You will typically be prompted to select your SDR device and set the initial sample rate and frequency.

Refer to the Gqrx documentation and the documentation for your specific SDR hardware for detailed setup instructions.