Considering that I relied on RSS and the readers that support them long before I made the switch to the Linux desktop, having access to a decent RSS reader was a must for me to make the switch to the Linux desktop on a full time basis. Ignoring the half-truths you read elsewhere, there is really no big advantage to running a localized RSS reader app vs. using one located “in the clouds.” The only two things to consider are availability when offline and having a backup OPML of your feeds should something go wrong. Address those two issues, and you’re golden.
Below, I will offer up RSS readers for the GNOME and KDE desktops that I’ve enjoyed over the years. These are applications that I’ve used and have found to be worthwhile for all who bother to try them.
Akregator: The premiere RSS reader used by those on the KDE desktop, Akregator allows you to read your latest headlines and news events without ever needing to open up a separate browser window. Additional benefits include tabs, simple import/export functionality, plus decent integration with the Konqueror browser as well. For KDE users, regardless of Linux distribution, this is the best RSS reader out there in my opinion.
Liferea: This is my favorite RSS reader. Designed for the GNOME desktop thanks to GTK, Liferea allows for cool functionality like Google Reader sync, Google Reader labels, plus the same kind of functionality seen above with the KDE option.
Mix and match
One of the all time great things about Linux on the desktop is that I can mix and match applications designed for different environments. In the end, it’s just Qt and GTK applications at work here. This means, of the two options above, use your package manager to install the one that looks best to you. I find that Liferea offers the best experience, but your mileage may vary.
