Side by side
npm vs vcpkg
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 AndroidiPhoneLinux+2
vcpkg offers dependency management, caching, and registry options for C/C++ projects across several platforms. Consider its varying firewall needs and telemetry opt-out steps when planning adoption.
Visit vcpkgThe facts
| npm | vcpkg | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Android, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Pro: $7 a month | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 4 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | vcpkg |
| Website | npmjs.com | vcpkg.io |
| On package managers | #3 of 93 | #7 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.
vcpkg: what it does well
- Curated registry lists over 2,300 open-source libraries.
- Supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
- Manifest files specify dependencies, features, and version constraints.
- Package and asset caching support reuse and offline environments.
- Custom registries can hold private libraries and patches.
What to know first
- Firewall access needs vary with installed ports.
- Anonymous usage data is collected by default.
- Other build systems require manual integration.