Why on EndeavourOS, Some Media Apps Work and Some Don’t: Troubleshooting Tips

Endeavouros some media apps work some don’t. If you’ve recently switched to this Linux distribution and are facing issues with your media apps, you are not alone. Many users experience similar problems where certain apps play videos or music perfectly, while others seem to fail for no apparent reason. This guide will help you understand why this happens and what you can do to fix it.
There can be several reasons why some media apps work and others don’t on EndeavourOS. From missing codecs to software conflicts, it’s important to diagnose the problem properly. This post will walk you through some common causes and provide helpful solutions to get your media apps running smoothly again.
Why Do Some Media Apps Work on EndeavourOS and Others Don’t
On EndeavourOS, you might notice that some media apps work perfectly, while others just don’t. This can be frustrating, especially if you’re used to apps running smoothly on other systems. The reason for this problem often lies in the system’s compatibility with certain apps, or the lack of necessary components, such as specific codecs.
The issue comes down to several factors. EndeavourOS, being a rolling release distribution, updates frequently, which sometimes leads to software inconsistencies. Some media apps might rely on outdated components that are not supported by the latest updates. This is why you could see some apps work fine while others just freeze or crash.
Common Causes of Media App Issues on EndeavourOS

There are many reasons why some media apps work while others don’t on EndeavourOS. One common cause is missing codecs, which are small pieces of software that help apps understand and play media files. Without these codecs, some apps can’t play videos or music properly.
Another reason is software conflicts. Different apps may require the same system resources, but when two apps try to use the same resources at once, they can cause errors. This issue is especially common in apps that handle multimedia files. Checking for conflicts and ensuring your system has all the right packages is key to solving the problem.
How to Fix Media Apps Not Working on EndeavourOS
- Install Missing Codecs: Ensure you have all the necessary codecs installed. Popular media players like VLC or MPV might not work without some essential codecs, so installing them should be your first step.
- Update the System Regularly: Keeping EndeavourOS up-to-date ensures you have the latest patches and fixes, reducing the chances of software conflicts.
- Check for App-Specific Updates: Some media apps need their updates to function properly. Be sure you are using the latest version of each app to avoid any known issues.
Understanding Software Conflicts on EndeavourOS and How to Resolve Them
Sometimes, the reason media apps don’t work on EndeavourOS is because of software conflicts. Different programs might try to use the same system resources or libraries, leading to errors. Resolving these conflicts can be tricky, but it’s not impossible.
To fix software conflicts, try the following steps:
- Check for Updates: Software conflicts often happen when an app hasn’t been updated to work with the latest version of the system. Ensure all your apps are up to date.
- Remove Unnecessary Apps: Sometimes, having too many media-related apps on your system can cause conflicts. Remove any apps you no longer use.
- Check App Logs for Errors: If a specific app keeps crashing, look for error messages in the logs to identify the cause of the conflict.
How to Minimize Conflicts in EndeavourOS
- Use One Media Player: Stick to one media player for all your media needs to avoid conflicts.
- Use the Official Repositories: Always try to install software from the official EndeavourOS repositories to reduce the risk of conflicts.
Best Practices for Keeping Media Apps Running Smoothly on EndeavourOS

To avoid problems with media apps in the future, it’s essential to follow some best practices for keeping your system smooth. Regular maintenance and updates can prevent many of the issues that cause media apps to malfunction.
Here are a few tips to keep your media apps running smoothly on EndeavourOS:
- Keep Your System Updated: Regular updates ensure that your apps are compatible with the latest system changes.
- Install Software from Trusted Sources: Avoid installing apps from unofficial sources, as they may cause compatibility issues.
- Use Lightweight Apps: Opt for lightweight media apps that consume fewer resources, reducing the chance of conflicts with other software.
Conclusion
When using EndeavourOS, it’s common to find that some media apps work, while others don’t. This can be due to missing codecs, outdated software, or conflicts between different apps. The good news is that most of these issues can be easily fixed with a few simple steps, like installing the necessary codecs or updating your system.
By following the tips and troubleshooting steps outlined in this post, you should be able to get your media apps working smoothly again. Regular maintenance and ensuring your system is up-to-date are the best ways to prevent these problems from happening in the future. Keep your EndeavourOS system in top shape, and enjoy your media apps without any issues!
FAQs
Q: Why do some media apps not work on EndeavourOS?
A: Some media apps may not work because of missing codecs, outdated software, or conflicts between apps. Installing the necessary codecs and keeping the system updated can help.
Q: How can I fix media apps that aren’t working?
A: You can fix non-working apps by installing missing codecs, updating your system, and checking for app-specific updates to ensure they work properly.
Q: Are there any alternative media apps for EndeavourOS?
A: Yes, alternative media apps like VLC, MPV, and SMPlayer can be used if you’re facing issues with other apps on EndeavourOS.
Q: How do I install codecs on EndeavourOS?
A: Open the terminal and run the command sudo pacman -S ffmpeg libva libvdpau to install common codecs on EndeavourOS.