17.5
npm is a JavaScript package registry and command-line tool for publishing, finding, and using packages.
Free planLinuxmacOSWindows
Best Package Management Software in 2026
Package management software helps install, update and organize software packages and their dependencies. Tools in this category include command-line managers, language package tools and hosted registries. Check platform support before choosing. The category includes tools for Linux, Windows, macOS, Android, iOS and self-hosted setups, but Android support can differ by tool; confirm it on the tool's site.
27.0
vcpkg is a free, open-source package manager for acquiring and managing C/C++ libraries.
Free planAndroidiOSLinux
36.9
Hex is a package manager for the BEAM ecosystem, including Elixir and Erlang.
Free planWebAPISelf-hosted
- 4
Homebrew
Free planLinuxmacOSWindows6.9Free plan - 5
pip
pip is Python’s package installer, used to add packages from PyPI and other indexes.
Free planLinuxmacOSWindows6.9Free plan - 6
Chocolatey
LinuxmacOSWindows6.7From $18 a year - 7
6.7 - 8
Nix
Nix is a package manager and system configuration tool for creating reproducible, declarative environments.
Free planLinuxmacOSSelf-hostedWindows6.7Free plan - 9
pnpm
pnpm is a package manager and drop-in replacement for npm, available for Linux, macOS, Windows, and Android.
AndroidLinuxmacOSWindows6.4 - 10
Dart pub
Dart pub is the package manager for finding and managing shared libraries and tools for Dart.
LinuxmacOSWindows6.1 - 11
Poetry
Poetry is a free tool for managing dependencies and packaging Python projects.
LinuxmacOSWindows6.1 - 12
APT
Free planLinux6.0Free plan - 13
Bundler
LinuxmacOSWindows6.0 - 14
Mix
LinuxmacOSWindows6.0 - 15
Scoop
Windows5.8 - 16
Pacman
Linux5.4
Choosing well
Check platform support
Start with the device or system where you will manage packages. Tools in this category run across Linux, Windows, macOS, Android, iOS and self-hosted environments.
Android support is not implied by a tool's presence in this category, so check the individual website before installing on a Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO phone or tablet.
Compare free and paid access
A free plan is available from tools in this category, and a free trial is offered by tools on the list. Check what the free option includes before relying on it.
Freemium pricing can add paid features or usage limits. npm lists paid access from $7 per month, so review the current plan details for any tool you consider.
Review source and licence terms
If you need to inspect or change the code, read the licence before adopting a tool. Homebrew and Mix are listed as open source; other tools may use different terms.
Also check the project's documentation so you know how packages are configured and maintained on your chosen platform.
Match the tool to your setup
Package managers can be tied to a specific operating system, programming language or self-hosted workflow. Choose one that fits the packages you need and the environment where you will run it.
Confirm that its documentation covers your intended installation and update process before committing to it.
Questions people ask
Do these package managers have Android apps?
Android support varies by tool. The category includes Android software, but check the individual tool's website before installing on a Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO device.
Can I use a package manager for free?
Yes. Tools in this category offer free plans, while freemium tools can also have paid access. Check the plan details for the tool you want.
Which platforms are covered?
The category includes tools for Linux, Windows, macOS, Android, iOS and self-hosted setups. Support differs by tool, so verify the platform list.
What does freemium mean here?
Freemium means a free option is available alongside paid access or features. npm, for example, lists paid access from $7 per month.
Should I check the licence?
Yes. Licence terms explain how you may use or modify the software. Homebrew and Mix are listed as open source; review the terms for other tools.