Side by side
Flux vs Nub
Both stand on javascript package managers. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxMacWindows
Flux offers a free way to manage packages and scripts for experiments, with a shared cache and standalone binary option. Its alpha limitations make it unsuitable for reproducible installs or shipped projects, according to the maker.
Visit Flux
Free plan LinuxMacWindows
Choose Nub if you want a free, open-source toolkit for running TypeScript and managing Node versions and package workflows. Consider its lockfile distinction if your workflow depends on writing Yarn lockfiles; the installer writes npm, pnpm, and Bun lockfiles instead.
Visit NubThe facts
| Flux | Nub | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Not published |
| Plans published | 1 | None |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | flux.gautamsuthar.in | nubjs.com |
| On javascript package managers | #6 of 19 | #10 of 19 |
Flux: what it does well
- Uses the npm registry and package.json.
- Shared cache can reuse downloaded package tarballs.
- Standalone binary does not require Node.js.
- MIT licensed for personal and commercial use.
- Runs on Linux, macOS, and Windows.
What to know first
- Installs direct dependencies only.
- No dependency tree resolution or lockfile support.
- Installs are not reproducible.
- Maker says it is not ready for production.
Nub: what it does well
- Runs TypeScript, JSX, and JavaScript without a separate build step.
- Can provision project-pinned Node versions on demand.
- Watch mode restarts apps when entrypoint or imported files change.
- Blocks dependency build scripts by default and checks OSV advisories.
- Supports workspaces, peer dependencies, publishing, and offline package caching.
What to know first
- Yarn lockfiles are read-only in the installer.
- Augmented modes require Node 18.19 or newer.