Side by side
pip vs Pixi
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
pip provides package installation across supported Python environments, with options for requirements files, reports, authentication, and offline use. Users should note its stated platform and version support, and that remote tampering checks are not enabled by default.
Visit pip Free plan LinuxMacWindows
Pixi combines environment management, lock files, task running, and support for multiple languages across desktop platforms. Package-hosting plans are separate from the free software and include paid and quote-based options.
Visit PixiThe facts
| pip | Pixi | |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Pro (prefix.dev package hosting): €42 a month |
| Plans published | 1 | 4 |
| Maker | Not published | Pixi |
| Website | pip.pypa.io | pixi.prefix.dev |
| On package managers | #12 of 93 | #16 of 93 |
pip: what it does well
- Installs from indexes, version control, and local sources.
- Supports wheels and source distributions.
- Can generate a JSON installation report.
- Supports lockfiles and offline installation.
- Free, with no usage limits stated.
What to know first
- Maintainers do not support other OSes or Python versions.
- Remote tampering checks are not enabled by default.
- Standalone zip application is experimental and not for production.
- Sends non-identifying environment details to remote indexes.
Pixi: what it does well
- Built-in lock files support repeatable environments.
- Runs on Linux, macOS, and Windows.
- Includes a task runner for project pipelines.
- ROS 2 support is provided through RoboStack.
What to know first
- Pro package hosting costs €42 a month.
- Enterprise package-hosting price is available by quote.
- VS Code Pixi extension is community-maintained.