MSYS2 vs MinGW-w64 : Which is Better?

MSYS2 icon

MSYS2

License: Open Source

Apps available for Windows

VS
VS
MinGW-w64 icon

MinGW-w64

MinGW (Minimalist GNU for Windows) is a free and open source software development environment for creating Microsoft Windows applications.

License: Open Source

Categories: Development

Apps available for Windows Linux

MSYS2 VS MinGW-w64

MinGW-w64 is primarily focused on providing a native environment for compiling Windows applications using GCC, while MSYS2 enhances this with advanced package management and a more complete Unix-like environment. Users looking for a straightforward compiler might prefer MinGW-w64, while those needing a richer development environment with more tools may opt for MSYS2.

MSYS2

Pros:

  • Comprehensive package management
  • Access to a wide range of Unix tools
  • Active community support
  • Easy installation of libraries and dependencies
  • Integrated terminal experience

Cons:

  • Can be complex for beginners
  • Heavy reliance on external tools
  • Potential compatibility issues with some Windows applications

MinGW-w64

Pros:

  • Lightweight and efficient
  • Native Windows support
  • Cross-compilation capabilities
  • Supports C, C++, and Fortran
  • Simple installation process

Cons:

  • Limited package management
  • Less frequent updates
  • Documentation can be sparse

Compare MSYS2

vs
Compare Babun and MSYS2 and decide which is most suitable for you.
vs
Compare BusyBox and MSYS2 and decide which is most suitable for you.
vs
Compare cmder and MSYS2 and decide which is most suitable for you.
vs
Compare ConEmu and MSYS2 and decide which is most suitable for you.
vs
Compare Cygwin and MSYS2 and decide which is most suitable for you.
vs
Compare gow and MSYS2 and decide which is most suitable for you.
vs
Compare KiTTY and MSYS2 and decide which is most suitable for you.
vs
Compare MinGW and MSYS2 and decide which is most suitable for you.
vs
Compare MobaXterm and MSYS2 and decide which is most suitable for you.
vs
Compare Git for Windows and MSYS2 and decide which is most suitable for you.
vs
Compare PowerShell and MSYS2 and decide which is most suitable for you.
vs
Compare PuTTY and MSYS2 and decide which is most suitable for you.