Side by side
Apache Ant vs Bazel
Both stand on build automation software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxMacSelf-hosted+1
Apache Ant provides flexible, task-based build tooling for Java and non-Java applications. Check its JDK requirement and the separate dependencies needed for JUnit before choosing it.
Visit Apache Ant
Free plan LinuxMacWindows
Bazel offers a free build-and-test system with incremental execution, broad language support and multi-platform outputs. Its remote cache and deployment limitations matter for teams deciding how to fit it into their workflows.
Visit BazelThe facts
| Apache Ant | Bazel | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows | Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | ant.apache.org | bazel.build |
| On build automation software | #1 of 42 | #5 of 42 |
Apache Ant: what it does well
- Builds Java as well as C and C++ applications
- Does not impose a Java project layout
- Extensible through optional Antlibs
- Built-in tasks cover source control and remote access
What to know first
- Ant 1.10 requires JDK 8 or later
- Many tasks do not work with only a JRE
- JUnit task needs external libraries
Bazel: what it does well
- Caches prior work and rebuilds changed parts.
- Supports parallel builds across several languages.
- Builds outputs for desktop, server, Android and iOS.
- Sandboxing can improve build reproducibility.
- Runs on Linux, macOS and Windows.
What to know first
- Remote cache requires a separately managed backend.
- Remote cache access needs security controls.
- Not well suited to uncached deployment operations.
- Some distribution packages are community-supported, not official.
Alternatives to Apache Ant Alternatives to Bazel The whole list