Ubuntu 24.04, like its predecessors, does not come with a built-in clipboard manager. However, the flexibility of Linux allows users to choose from a variety of third-party clipboard managers that can be installed to enhance productivity. Clipboard managers are essential tools for those who frequently copy and paste data, as they keep a history of the clipboard’s contents and allow users to access previous clipboard entries easily.
In this guide, we will explore how to install a clipboard manager on Ubuntu 24.04, with detailed step-by-step instructions.
How to Install Clipboard on Ubuntu 24.04
Ubuntu, the popular Linux distribution, is known for its ease of use and robust performance. One of the features that can enhance user productivity is a clipboard manager. There are several clipboard managers available for Ubuntu, such as GPaste, CopyQ, and Clipman. Each has its own set of features and installation methods.
Let’s install some of the most popular clipboard managers available for Ubuntu 24.04:
1. GPaste
GPaste is a clipboard management system that integrates seamlessly with the GNOME desktop environment. It provides an easy-to-use interface and a set of features that make managing your clipboard history simple.
Installation of GPaste
A GPaste clipboard manager allows users to store multiple items in the clipboard, which can be very useful for those who do a lot of copying and pasting.
To install GPaste, open a terminal and execute the following commands:
sudo apt update
sudo apt install gnome-shell-extension-gpaste
Launching of GPaste
After installation, you can configure the clipboard manager to suit your preferences. For GPaste, you can access its settings through the GNOME Extensions app, where you can enable the indicator applet and adjust other preferences.
For GPaste, you can launch it directly from the application menu with the following:
Usage of GPaste
Now that your clipboard manager is installed and configured, you can start using it to manage your clipboard history. You can copy and paste multiple items, search through your history, and even exclude certain applications from being tracked:
Note: The GPaste clipboard is a system-level feature that manages text or data copied to it for pasting later.
2. CopyQ
Ubuntu, the popular Linux distribution, is known for its ease of use and robust performance. One of the features that can enhance user productivity is a clipboard manager. CopyQ is an advanced clipboard manager with editing and scripting features. It allows you to save text, HTML, images, and any other custom format.
Installation of CopyQ
To install CopyQ, run the following commands in your terminal:
sudo apt update
sudo apt install copyq
Launching of CopyQ
Once installed, you can start CopyQ from the application menu, and it will appear in the system tray area:
Usage of CopyQ
For CopyQ, you can set a global shortcut, decide how many history items to remember, and where to store them through the Extension Manager’s configuration dialog:
3. Clipman
Clipman is a new clipboard manager that is designed to work with the GNOME desktop environment. It features a sleek interface and supports various data types, including text, images, and links.
Installation of Clipman
It is a new clipboard manager that integrates well with the GNOME desktop environment and offers a sleek interface for managing clipboard history.
To install Clipman, run the following commands in your terminal:
sudo apt update
sudo apt install xfce4-clipman
Launch of Clipman
Once installed, you can usually access Clipman from the system tray or by searching for it in your application menu:
Note: If you’re looking for advanced clipboard features like history, search, or synchronization, prefer GPaste. Each clipboard manager has its unique set of features and installation methods. Users can choose the one that best fits their needs and follow the provided instructions to install it on their Ubuntu 24.04 system.
How to Use Clipboard on Ubuntu 24.04
Remember to always check the compatibility of the clipboard manager with your version of Ubuntu and GNOME before proceeding with the installation.
- Copy: Select the text or item you want to copy. Right-click and choose “Copy” or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+C.
- Paste: Navigate to where you want to paste the copied content. Right-click and choose “Paste” or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+V.
- Cutting text: Select the text and press Ctrl+X (removes text from original location).
- Viewing clipboard contents: Some clipboard managers offer a way to view the clipboard history.
Conclusion
Ubuntu 24.04 does not include a clipboard manager by default, the availability of third-party options ensures that users can find a solution that suits their workflow. Whether you need a simple tool to track your clipboard history or a more complex system with scripting capabilities, the Linux ecosystem has you covered.
By following these steps, you can successfully install and use a clipboard manager on Ubuntu 24.04, enhancing your productivity and making your workflow more efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions
CopyQ or Clipman using the terminal. For CopyQ, run sudo apt install copyq. Clipman or CopyQ from the software repositories. CopyQ via Snap. Use the command: sudo snap install copyq. CopyQ or Clipman. These tools allow you to store and manage multiple clipboard entries. CopyQ, support synchronization across devices using cloud services or shared folders. 
