List of the Top 19 Package Managers for Mac in 2025

Homebrew acts as an essential package manager for macOS and Linux, featuring a script that defines its actions prior to execution. It proficiently installs various software that may not be readily available through Apple or default Linux distributions, placing these packages in specific directories and generating symlinks in /usr/local for Intel-based macOS systems. By confining installations within its defined prefix, Homebrew allows for a flexible arrangement of its packages. Users have the ability to craft their own Homebrew packages, as it utilizes Git and Ruby, making it easy to revert changes and merge updates. The Homebrew formulas consist of simple Ruby scripts that boost the capabilities of macOS or Linux platforms. Beyond this, RubyGems can be installed via the gem command, while Homebrew oversees their dependencies with the brew command. For individuals using macOS, Homebrew Cask provides a method for installing applications, plugins, and fonts, including proprietary software, with creating a cask being as straightforward as writing a formula. This user-friendly approach not only streamlines the installation process but also motivates users to delve deeper into customizing their software ecosystems. Ultimately, this fosters a community of innovation and personalization among users eager to enhance their computing experience.

Helm streamlines the management of applications within Kubernetes, and its charts enable users to define, install, and upgrade even the most complex Kubernetes applications with ease. These charts are designed to be user-friendly for both creation and publication, facilitating effortless versioning and sharing, which positions Helm as a vital resource in minimizing repetitive copy-and-paste tasks. By outlining even the most advanced applications, charts promote uniform installation practices and serve as a central, authoritative reference point. They also simplify the update process through in-place upgrades and customizable hooks, enhancing operational efficiency. Moreover, charts can be conveniently versioned and hosted on various platforms, whether public or private, providing flexibility for deployment. If a need arises to revert to an earlier version, the helm rollback command allows for a seamless transition. Helm utilizes a packaging format called charts, which are composed of a collection of files that delineate a related group of Kubernetes resources. Importantly, a single chart can manage the deployment of a straightforward component, like a memcached pod, or orchestrate an entire web application stack, comprising HTTP servers, databases, and caches, highlighting its versatility and strength within the Kubernetes landscape. This ability to effectively manage both simple and intricate deployments renders Helm an essential asset for developers and operators, ensuring they can efficiently navigate the complexities of the Kubernetes environment. This multifaceted approach underscores Helm's role as a cornerstone tool in modern application deployment strategies.

NuGet is the designated package manager tailored specifically for the .NET framework. Utilizing NuGet client tools, developers are capable of both creating and effectively utilizing packages. The NuGet Gallery serves as the central repository, offering a diverse selection of packages for developers and users alike. For those new to NuGet, guided tutorials are available to illustrate how it can significantly improve your .NET development process. You can discover an abundance of packages developed and shared by peers within the .NET community. If you are eager to create your first NuGet package and contribute to the community, our comprehensive step-by-step guide can serve as an excellent introduction! The command-line tool, nuget.exe, is compatible with Mono 3.2 and newer versions, enabling package creation on Mono platforms. Although nuget.exe functions smoothly on Windows, users have encountered challenges when trying to operate it on Linux and OS X environments. To gain further insights about any specific package, it is advisable to check its listing page on NuGet or any associated private feed. Each package's listing on the NuGet platform contains essential details such as an in-depth description, history of versions, and key usage statistics, helping developers make well-informed choices. Moreover, regular updates to the package listings guarantee that users are kept informed about the latest improvements and features that the .NET community has to offer, thus enriching the overall development experience. Engaging with the community not only enhances individual projects but also fosters collaboration and innovation among developers.

Yarn operates as a versatile tool, serving the dual roles of package manager and project manager. It is designed to meet the needs of a wide array of users, from casual programmers to large corporations, whether working on simple tasks or extensive monorepos. With Yarn, developers can effectively organize their projects by breaking them down into multiple sub-components within a single repository. A notable benefit of Yarn is its promise that an installation functioning correctly today will maintain that reliability over time. Although Yarn may not solve every challenge you encounter, it lays a strong foundation for additional solutions. Our dedication is to transform the developer experience and challenge traditional methodologies. As an independent open-source project, Yarn operates without corporate ties, and your support plays a vital role in our journey. Yarn possesses a thorough knowledge of your dependency tree and manages the installation process on your disk; thus, it raises the question of why Node should be tasked with finding your packages. Instead, the onus is on the package manager to inform the interpreter where the packages reside on the disk and to oversee the relationships and versioning between them. This alteration in responsibility has the potential to significantly improve the efficiency of project management in development settings. Ultimately, Yarn seeks to simplify the development workflow, allowing developers to concentrate on creating exceptional software while fostering a community that supports innovation and collaboration.

Nix presents a unique approach to package management and system configuration. It facilitates the development of systems that are reproducible, declarative, and trustworthy. By isolating the package building process, Nix ensures that each package is reproducible and devoid of hidden dependencies, ensuring that a package which works correctly on one machine will behave the same way on another. Moreover, Nix enhances the ease of sharing development and build environments across different projects, irrespective of the programming languages or tools being used. A significant advantage of Nix is its ability to prevent the installation or upgrade of one package from interfering with others, including the option to roll back to previous versions, which helps maintain stability during updates. Acting as a purely functional package manager, Nix treats packages as immutable values akin to those in functional programming languages such as Haskell, where functions are free from side effects and packages remain unchanged post-construction. This strategy not only fosters reliability and uniformity in software environments but also encourages developers to adopt best practices in project management and collaboration. Ultimately, Nix's innovative methodology positions it as a powerful tool in the realm of software development.

Homebrew Cask offers a refined command-line interface (CLI) for managing macOS applications that come in binary form. By building upon Homebrew's functionalities, it provides a simple and effective method for installing and overseeing GUI applications like Atom and Google Chrome. To begin utilizing Homebrew Cask, having Homebrew installed is all that is necessary. It streamlines the process of installing a variety of macOS software such as applications, fonts, plugins, and other proprietary tools. As a key part of the Homebrew ecosystem, all Cask commands start with "brew," which applies to both Casks and Formulae alike. Users can easily add multiple Cask tokens simultaneously by using the "brew install" command. Furthermore, Homebrew Cask enhances its functionality with bash and zsh completion for the brew command, making it more user-friendly. Since the Homebrew Cask repository functions as a Homebrew Tap, users can swiftly get the latest Casks by executing the standard "brew update" command, ensuring they have access to the newest applications. This seamless workflow not only conserves time but also significantly optimizes the application management experience for macOS users, making it a valuable tool in their software arsenal. Overall, Homebrew Cask represents an essential resource for anyone looking to efficiently manage their macOS applications.

Pkgsrc is an exceptional framework designed for the management of third-party software on UNIX-like systems, featuring a vast repository that exceeds 17,900 packages. Serving as the primary package manager for both NetBSD and SmartOS, it enables the efficient compilation of freely available software across various UNIX-like environments. Users can take advantage of pre-built binary packages offered by pkgsrc, which removes the necessity for compiling source code manually, thus streamlining the software installation process. This dynamic system significantly enhances the existing software landscape of any setup. With its outstanding flexibility, pkgsrc boasts extensive configurability that allows for package builds tailored to any installation prefix, the ability to maintain multiple branches on a single machine, and includes sophisticated tools such as a build options framework and a compiler transformation framework. Additionally, it supports installations that do not require elevated permissions, making it more accessible to a broader audience. While NetBSD users have immediate access to the tools necessary for pkgsrc, those on other platforms are required to follow a bootstrap procedure to install the essential package management utilities, guaranteeing a seamless software management experience. The combination of its adaptability and comprehensive features positions pkgsrc as an essential asset for both developers and system administrators, making it a go-to solution for efficient software management.

The MacPorts Project is a collaborative, open-source effort designed to provide an easily navigable platform for compiling, installing, and updating a wide range of open-source software—whether it be command-line, X11, or Aqua—on macOS systems. To support this initiative, we deliver the MacPorts software package, which functions through the command line and is distributed under a 3-Clause BSD License, allowing users straightforward access to thousands of ports that simplify the management of open-source software on their Mac devices. Our repository features a unified software tree that corresponds with the latest versions of each software title (port) available, thereby eliminating the challenges associated with distinguishing between “stable” and “unstable” versions, while prioritizing compatibility with macOS Mojave v10.14 and newer, including provisions for macOS Monterey v12 on both Intel and Apple Silicon architectures. With an extensive selection of ports spanning various categories, our collection is consistently growing to cater to user demands, and each release is crafted to improve the overall user experience, ensuring that the latest software choices are always within reach. This commitment to accessibility and usability fosters an environment where developers and users alike can thrive.

The Fink initiative seeks to broaden the landscape of Unix open-source software within Darwin and Mac OS X environments. By adapting Unix applications to compile and function without issues on Mac OS X—known as "porting"—we offer users an integrated distribution that can be easily downloaded. Fink leverages Debian tools like dpkg and apt-get to provide comprehensive binary package management capabilities. Users can choose to download precompiled binary packages or decide to build everything from the source code, with the project offering both options for convenience. In addition to precompiled binaries, it provides an automated system for compiling from source, which is especially beneficial for advanced users. While Mac OS X only includes a basic set of command-line tools, Fink enhances this offering by introducing a range of graphical applications that are typically found in Linux and other Unix systems. With Fink, the entire compilation process is automated, sparing users from the intricacies of Makefiles and configure scripts, including their various settings. Furthermore, the robust dependency management system guarantees that all essential libraries are automatically included, greatly simplifying the user experience. Ultimately, Fink plays a crucial role in significantly enhancing the software ecosystem accessible to Mac OS X users, making it a valuable resource for developers and enthusiasts alike.

Rudix operates as a specialized build system tailored for macOS, formerly known as Mac OS X, while extending limited support to OpenBSD, FreeBSD, NetBSD, and Linux. Often referred to as "ports," this build system offers comprehensive instructions for compiling third-party applications directly from their source code. In addition to serving as a ports framework, Rudix provides a wide array of packages and precompiled software neatly bundled in *.pkg files, facilitating easy installation on your Mac. For those looking to contribute, the project is accessible on GitHub under the name rudix-mac, and there is also a mirrored version available on GitLab at rudix. Users are invited to utilize the GitHub issue tracker to report any bugs or propose new features. Alternatives to Rudix include comparable projects such as Fink, MacPorts, pkgsrc, and Homebrew, all of which aim to streamline the software installation process on macOS. The packages are meticulously compiled and tested specifically on macOS Big Sur (Version 11, Intel only!), Catalina (Version 10.15), and OS X El Capitan (Version 10.11). Each package is constructed to be self-contained, encompassing all essential components to operate effectively, with binaries, libraries, and documentation installed in the /usr/local/ directory. Additionally, Rudix is committed to enhancing the user experience by creating a unified platform for software development and installation on macOS, ensuring that users can easily access and manage their software needs. This focus on user-friendly design sets Rudix apart in the realm of macOS build systems.

At present, this module is not being actively developed. The acceptance of pull requests for this repository has been halted. OneGet has achieved a stable state, and moving forward, it will receive only essential bug fixes from Microsoft. If you have any questions or come across any unexpected issues with this module, we invite you to file an issue in the repository. PackageManagement is currently supported on Windows, Linux, and MacOS platforms. Moreover, we consistently provide binary updates for PowerShellCore, which includes PackageManagement as part of the PowerShell Core distributions. Staying informed about these updates is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and functionality. As the technology landscape evolves, it remains vital to keep abreast of any changes that may affect your usage.

Unveiling a groundbreaking decentralized software installation framework designed for seamless operation on Linux, Windows, and macOS platforms, this fully open-source solution empowers users to launch applications with a mere click, thereby negating the need for traditional installation procedures. Users can manage their experience through a command line or a graphical interface, affording them complete oversight of their computing tasks. The installation process is entirely transparent, thereby alleviating the common anxieties surrounding software deployment. It uniquely supports the coexistence of both stable and experimental applications on a single machine, promoting an adaptable software environment. Developers are given the ability to distribute software easily, enabling them to create a unified package that operates across multiple platforms. The system facilitates publishing on any static web host, contributing to a decentralized ecosystem that operates independently of any central authority. Additionally, it boasts robust dependency management and automatic updates, consistently prioritizing security. Importantly, installing an application does not grant it administrator privileges, and all new software is subjected to meticulous digital signature verification before execution. Applications are designed to share libraries while upholding a trust model, further enhancing security measures. This innovative framework also incorporates automatic self-updating features, staged rollouts, and various improvements for desktop integration, all of which significantly enrich the user experience. With such a comprehensive suite of features, it fundamentally transforms the interaction users have with software on their devices, paving the way for a more efficient and secure digital landscape.

The RPM Package Manager (RPM) is an effective tool for software package management, allowing users to convert source code into easily distributable formats while simplifying the processes of installation, updating, and removal of these packages; it also provides the capability to query detailed information about both currently installed and previously uninstalled packages, as well as to verify their integrity and the entire software installation process. The RPM header houses the metadata pertinent to each package, structured as a binary format that organizes this information using specific tags, each assigned a particular meaning and type. While the header does not contain the metadata itself, it is critical for the corresponding code that reads the header to interpret these definitions accurately. In this framework, tags are represented solely by their numerical identifiers, and they can be either single scalar types or arrays made up of these types. Although the type system does not enforce strict rules, it is generally expected by the RPM code that related tags will have a uniform number of entries, which aids in maintaining a coherent data organization. This thoughtful design greatly enhances the RPM system's ability to effectively manage and sustain software packages, ultimately streamlining the overall user experience with software installations. Consequently, users can rely on RPM for efficient software management across various environments.

The Fortran Package Manager (fpm) functions as both a package manager and a build tool tailored specifically for the Fortran programming language. Its extensive collection of available packages enriches a dynamic ecosystem that includes both general-purpose and high-performance code, thereby enhancing user accessibility. Designed to streamline the experience for Fortran developers, fpm simplifies various tasks such as building Fortran programs or libraries, running tests, executing examples, and managing dependencies for other Fortran projects. The user-friendly interface of fpm is inspired by Rust’s Cargo, allowing for an intuitive interaction. Furthermore, fpm is committed to a long-term vision that aims to cultivate the development of modern Fortran applications and libraries. A standout aspect of fpm is its plugin architecture, which allows users to extend its functionality. One such plugin, the fpm-search project, offers a simple way for users to query the package registry, and its compatibility ensures easy installation across different systems. This integration not only enhances the development workflow but also promotes collaboration and innovation among developers within the Fortran community, ultimately contributing to the language's ongoing evolution. Through these efforts, fpm seeks to make Fortran a more accessible and powerful choice for developers everywhere.

FPM is a highly adaptable tool that aims to simplify the creation of packages for a variety of operating systems, such as Debian, Ubuntu, Fedora, CentOS, RHEL, Arch Linux, FreeBSD, and macOS, among others. Rather than reinventing the wheel with a new packaging methodology, FPM acts as a facilitator that streamlines the package creation process for existing systems with minimal hassle. Its intuitive command-line interface allows users to generate packages effortlessly. Built using Ruby, FPM can be easily installed through the gem package manager. However, for certain formats like RPM and Snap, it is essential to have specific dependencies installed on your machine to build them successfully. Furthermore, when working with different operating systems or distributions, additional tools may be required for compatibility purposes. FPM efficiently converts your software into installable packages across various platforms, making it capable of transforming any Node.js package, Ruby gem, or Python package into formats such as deb, rpm, or pacman. In addition to enhancing the packaging process, FPM provides developers with a streamlined workflow, ultimately saving both time and resources. With its versatility and ease of use, FPM has become a valuable asset for software developers aiming to deploy their applications seamlessly across multiple environments.

Cargo acts as the Rust package manager, overseeing the processes of downloading necessary dependencies, compiling packages, generating distributable versions, and facilitating uploads to crates.io, the official package registry for the Rust community. Contributions to this guide can be submitted via GitHub. To start utilizing Cargo, you must first install both Cargo and Rust before creating your inaugural crate. Using the command-line interface allows for straightforward interaction with Cargo. In Rust, a crate can be categorized as either a library crate or a binary crate, which refers to library or executable types, respectively. The term crate typically encompasses the source code of a project or the compiled output it produces. Furthermore, it may also signify a compressed package sourced from a registry. Crates can depend on external libraries found on crates.io, other registries, git repositories, or even local directories, enabling a wide range of functionalities. Additionally, Cargo offers the capability to temporarily alter the location of a dependency, enhancing the flexibility of project management. This adaptability renders Cargo an indispensable asset for developers working with Rust while fostering a streamlined development experience.

Conda is an open-source tool designed for the effective management of packages, dependencies, and environments across various programming languages such as Python, R, Ruby, Lua, Scala, Java, JavaScript, C/C++, Fortran, and many others. This adaptable system functions smoothly on a variety of platforms including Windows, macOS, Linux, and z/OS. By allowing rapid installation, execution, and upgrading of packages along with their dependencies, Conda boosts efficiency in development workflows. It also simplifies the tasks of creating, saving, loading, and switching between different environments on a user's machine. Initially developed for Python applications, Conda has broadened its scope to support software packaging and distribution for any programming language. As a robust package manager, it assists users in finding and installing the necessary packages they need for their projects. If you encounter a situation where a package requires a different version of Python, you won’t have to resort to a different environment manager; Conda can handle that seamlessly. You can easily create an entirely new environment tailored to that specific Python version, while continuing to use your standard version in the default environment. This remarkable flexibility not only streamlines development but also makes Conda an essential asset for developers with varied software needs, catering to the complexities of modern programming environments.

Apache Ivy™ is a well-known tool for managing dependencies that prioritizes both user-friendliness and versatility. Explore its unique features tailored for enterprise use, feedback from users, and how it can improve your building framework! Ivy effectively handles various aspects of project dependencies, such as documenting, monitoring, resolving, and generating reports. Its process-agnostic design ensures it is not limited to any particular methodology or framework, allowing for substantial flexibility and reconfiguration to meet diverse needs in dependency management and build scenarios. While it can operate independently, Ivy demonstrates its true potential when used alongside Apache Ant, which provides a comprehensive set of Ant tasks that facilitate everything from resolving dependencies to generating reports and publishing outputs. This tool is packed with impressive features, with its adaptability, smooth integration with Ant, and strong management of transitive dependencies being some of the most appreciated aspects. As an open-source initiative, Ivy is shared under a permissive Apache License, encouraging community contributions and nurturing a collaborative development atmosphere. Consequently, it stands out as an ideal option for teams aiming to optimize their dependency management processes, ultimately leading to more efficient project development and maintenance.

Introducing tea, an innovative cross-platform package manager that revolutionizes software management. Say farewell to slow and awkward experiences while embracing a fast and efficient solution crafted by the creator of Brew. With tea, you simply input commands, and it seamlessly manages everything for you. It allows you to easily access the latest releases of open source tools while also enabling you to maintain specific tool versions tailored to different projects. The enhanced package management experience that tea offers is truly remarkable. Additionally, we have plans to leverage blockchain technology within this packaging system to ensure that developers receive fair compensation for their contributions to open source software. To delve deeper into our ambitious vision for web3, feel free to check out our comprehensive white paper here. Access the expansive open source ecosystem with tea by just adding "tea" before your commands; if a tool isn’t already present, tea will handle the installation automatically. Elevate your shell scripts with added functionality and optimize your workflow through improved developer environments. The optional magic feature can enhance your experience, but if you choose to forgo it, just remember to prefix your commands with `tea` for a smooth and productive interaction. This unique combination of simplicity and efficiency truly distinguishes tea in the package management landscape. Embrace a new era of software management and watch as your productivity soars.