Side by side
cvc5 vs HOL4
Both stand on formal verification tools. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan APILinuxMac+3
cvc5 offers a solver, synthesis engine, and library interfaces for work across multiple theories. Review the license implications if using optional GPLv3 dependencies.
Visit cvc5 Free plan LinuxMacSelf-hosted+1
Choose HOL4 for higher-order logic theorem proving when you need a self-hosted environment with proof tools, counterexamples, and routes to external engines. It is a weaker fit if you need a quick start: a Standard ML compiler is required, and becoming comfortable can take about a month for someone starting from scratch.
Visit HOL4The facts
| cvc5 | HOL4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | API, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows | Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | cvc5.github.io | hol-theorem-prover.org |
| On formal verification tools | #5 of 34 | #9 of 34 |
cvc5: what it does well
- Supports common standardized SMT theories.
- Provides proofs and unsatisfiable cores.
- Offers C++, C, Java, and Python APIs.
- Source releases and binaries cover three desktop systems.
What to know first
- Optional GPLv3 dependencies change the combined work's license.
- Command-line input languages listed are SMT-LIB v2 and SyGuS-IF.
HOL4: what it does well
- Free software under the Modified (3-clause) BSD licence.
- Built-in procedures and theorem provers can establish many simple theorems.
- Oracle mechanism connects to external SMT and BDD engines.
- Supports proof artifacts and counterexamples.
- Online documentation includes a tutorial, manuals, and a FAQ.
What to know first
- Requires a Standard ML compiler, with Poly/ML recommended.
- The installation page estimates about a month to become comfortable from scratch.
- Moscow ML on Windows lacks some Poly/ML libraries and concurrent Holmake builds.