Desktop Clients

Desktop clients offer a native experience on your computer with features optimized for larger screens.

Native Applications

Gossip

A privacy-focused desktop client written in Rust.

• Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
• Download: GitHub
• Cost: Free, open source

Features:

• Privacy-first design
• Advanced relay management
• Follows outbox model (NIP-65)
• Local data storage
• No tracking or analytics

Best for: Privacy-conscious users, power users

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Damus (macOS)

The same great Damus experience on your Mac.

• Platforms: macOS
• Download: App Store
• Cost: Free

Features:

• Native macOS design
• Syncs with iOS version
• Zaps and Lightning
• Clean interface

Best for: Mac users who also use Damus on iPhone

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Lume

A modern, customizable desktop client.

• Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
• Download: lume.nu
• Cost: Free

Features:

• Column-based layout
• Customizable workspaces
• Built for productivity
• Modern interface

Best for: Power users who want TweetDeck-style experience

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Web Apps as Desktop

You can also use web clients as desktop apps:

Using Primal as Desktop

1. Visit primal.net
2. In Chrome: Menu → More tools → Create shortcut
3. Check "Open as window"
4. Now you have a desktop app!

Progressive Web Apps (PWAs)

Many web clients support PWA installation:

• Works offline (partially)
• Has its own window
• Feels like a native app

Comparison

App	Platform	Privacy	Features	Ease of Use
Gossip	All	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐
Damus	macOS	⭐⭐	⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐
Lume	All	⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐
Web PWA	All	⭐⭐	Varies	⭐⭐⭐

Key Management on Desktop

Option 1: Store in App

Most desktop apps store your key encrypted locally:

• Convenient
• Protected by your system login
• Key stays on your computer

Option 2: Use a Signer

For enhanced security:

nsec.app

• URL: nsec.app
• Web-based key management
• Works with many clients
• Bunker protocol support

Browser Extension

• Alby or nos2x
• Works with web clients
• Convenient for web-based workflow

Setting Up

First Time Installation

1. Download from official source
2. Verify the download (if possible)
3. Install following system prompts
4. Create or import your account
5. Configure relays (usually automatic)

Importing Your Account

If you have an existing Nostr account:

1. Open the application
2. Choose "Import" or "Existing Account"
3. Enter your nsec (private key)
4. Your profile and follows load automatically

Security Tips

• Download only from official sources
• Keep your system updated
• Use full-disk encryption
• Back up your keys separately

Advanced Features

Multi-Column Layouts

Desktop clients like Lume offer:

• Multiple feeds side by side
• Custom columns for hashtags
• Notification column
• DM column

Relay Management

Desktop clients often provide better relay tools:

• See connection status
• Monitor bandwidth
• Test relay speeds
• Manage permissions

Data Export

Some clients let you export:

• Your posts
• Your follows
• Your messages (if stored locally)

Which Should You Choose?

If you want...	Choose...
Maximum privacy	Gossip
Familiar iOS experience	Damus (macOS)
Power user features	Lume
No installation	Web client
TweetDeck style	Lume

Tips for Desktop Users

Keyboard Shortcuts

Most desktop clients support:

• Ctrl/Cmd + N - New post
• Ctrl/Cmd + Enter - Send post
• Ctrl/Cmd + K - Search

Check each app's documentation for full shortcuts.

Notifications

Desktop notifications may require:

• System permission
• App-specific setup
• Browser permission (for web)

Multiple Monitors

Desktop clients work great with multiple monitors:

• Keep Nostr on secondary screen
• Use columns across displays
• Monitor feeds while working

Next Steps

• Specialized Clients - Other types of apps
• Understanding Relays
• Back Up Your Keys