Side by side
Rattler vs virtualenv
Both stand on python 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 APILinuxMac+2
Rattler provides reusable Conda environment and package workflows across Rust and other languages. It is most relevant when you are building a tool or application, rather than looking for a standalone end-user app.
Visit Rattler Free plan LinuxMacWindows
Choose virtualenv if you need a free, cross-platform command-line tool to create isolated Python environments, with interpreter discovery and extensibility options. Look elsewhere if you require stable RustPython support; that support is experimental.
Visit virtualenvThe facts
| Rattler | virtualenv | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | API, Linux, Mac, Web, Windows | Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Not published | Free or on request |
| Plans published | None | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | prefix.dev | virtualenv.pypa.io |
| On python package managers | #21 of 27 | #25 of 27 |
Rattler: what it does well
- Builds Conda workflows without requiring Python.
- Rust library with Python and JavaScript bindings.
- JavaScript package runs in browsers or Node.js.
- Includes Sigstore attestation verification for Conda packages.
- Repository lists a BSD-3-Clause license.
What to know first
- Questions are directed to the Discord community.
- Enterprise support is contracted rather than described as standard support.
virtualenv: what it does well
- Keeps environment packages separate from system Python.
- Supports Linux, macOS, and Windows.
- Finds Python versions managed by pyenv, mise, or asdf.
- Caches install images for faster subsequent environment creation.
- Offers installation through uv, pipx, pip, or a zipapp.
What to know first
- RustPython support is experimental.
- GraalPy support is limited to Linux and macOS.
- The documented comparison says faster creation applies to subsequent environments.
Alternatives to Rattler Alternatives to virtualenv The whole list