Homebrew vs MacPorts : Which is Better?

Homebrew icon

Homebrew

Homebrewing refers to small-scale, non-commercial manufacture of drink, typically beer. Developed by Max Howell

License: Open Source

Categories: OS & Utilities

Apps available for Mac OS X

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MacPorts icon

MacPorts

MacPorts (DarwinPorts) is a package management system that simplifies the installation of software on the macOS and Darwin operating systems. Developed by The MacPorts Project

License: Open Source

Apps available for Mac OS X

Homebrew VS MacPorts

MacPorts is a more comprehensive package manager that supports a wide range of software and allows for multiple versions, making it suitable for advanced users. Homebrew, on the other hand, is praised for its simplicity and speed, making it ideal for users who prefer a lightweight and user-friendly experience.

Homebrew

Pros:

  • Simple and user-friendly interface
  • Fast installation of packages
  • Strong community and documentation
  • Easily customizable
  • Lightweight compared to other package managers

Cons:

  • Limited support for older macOS versions
  • Dependency issues can arise
  • Packages can be less stable than MacPorts

MacPorts

Pros:

  • Easy to use and install packages
  • Supports a wide range of software
  • Active community support
  • Allows for multiple versions of software
  • Integration with the system's package management

Cons:

  • Can be slower in package installation
  • More complex for beginners
  • Less user-friendly compared to Homebrew

Compare Homebrew

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Compare Advanced Package Tool and Homebrew and decide which is most suitable for you.
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Compare Chocolatey and Homebrew and decide which is most suitable for you.
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Compare Just Install and Homebrew and decide which is most suitable for you.
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Compare Mac App Store and Homebrew and decide which is most suitable for you.
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Compare macapps.link and Homebrew and decide which is most suitable for you.
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Compare Ninite and Homebrew and decide which is most suitable for you.
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Compare pacman (package manager) and Homebrew and decide which is most suitable for you.
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Compare scoop and Homebrew and decide which is most suitable for you.
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Compare Synaptic and Homebrew and decide which is most suitable for you.