Side by side
npm vs pkgman
Both stand on 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
npm supports public package publishing for free and offers paid options for private packages and access management. Check whether an individual or team plan fits your needs, and note that billing starts when card information is submitted.
Visit npm Free plan Open source Linux
Pick pkgman if you use Haiku OS and want direct Terminal or script-based package management. It provides broad HPKG and repository controls at no cost. Look elsewhere if you need a graphical workflow; HaikuDepot is the graphical alternative.
Visit pkgmanThe facts
| npm | pkgman | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Yes |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Linux |
| Lowest paid plan | Pro: $7 a month | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 4 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | npmjs.com | haiku-os.org |
| On package managers | #3 of 93 | #1 of 93 |
npm: what it does well
- Free plan includes unlimited public packages.
- Supports dependency resolution, lockfiles, and workspaces.
- Private packages are available in paid plans.
- Supports offline installation.
- All plans include basic support and automatic security warnings.
What to know first
- Private publishing requires a paid plan.
- Paid billing starts when card information is submitted.
- The first paid month is charged immediately.
pkgman: what it does well
- Searches, installs, updates, and uninstalls HPKG packages
- Resolves dependencies and can install required files
- Adds, drops, and refreshes package repositories
- Full-sync can downgrade or remove packages when needed
- Free and open source
What to know first
- Primarily intended for advanced users
- Haiku is still considered beta
- Haiku primarily targets x86 architecture
- Repository downloads require trusting the repository