Side by side
K Framework vs TLA+
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+1
K provides a specification-driven route to executable language tools and formal analysis. Its command-line workflow and platform, dependency, and documentation constraints should be considered before adoption.
Visit K Framework Free plan ExtensionLinuxMac+1
TLA+ provides model checking, proof checking, and editor options for system design verification. The Toolbox is an available interface, but its stated maintenance and documentation limitations are worth considering.
Visit TLA+The facts
| K Framework | TLA+ | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | API, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted | Extension, Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Not published | Free or on request |
| Plans published | None | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | kframework.org | lamport.azurewebsites.net |
| On formal verification tools | #18 of 34 | #22 of 34 |
K Framework: what it does well
- Free and self-hosted
- Derives tools from one specification
- Concrete and symbolic execution
- Theorem-proving analysis
- Python scripting interface
What to know first
- Native Windows unsupported
- Requires Z3 4.8.15
- GUI tools are not provided
- Documentation is still under construction
TLA+: what it does well
- Free and open source.
- TLC checks safety and liveness properties.
- TLC can run across multiple computers or cloud systems.
- TLAPS mechanically checks proofs.
- Visual Studio Code extension supports TLA+ and PlusCal.
What to know first
- Command-line tools require Java 11 or later.
- The Toolbox GUI is currently unmaintained.
- The Toolbox has minor unfixed bugs.
- Its help pages are its only user manual.
Alternatives to K Framework Alternatives to TLA+ The whole list