Python Application Packaging Tools – An overview

Python offers numerous methods to transform scripts into standalone applications. Packaging tools are designed to bundle your code, libraries, and often a Python interpreter, enabling users to run your app without the need to manually install Python or its dependencies.

Each tool employs a unique approach – some generate a single executable, while others create a directory or installer. They vary in terms of OS support, performance, output size, and use cases.

In this blog series, I plan to explore each tool, discussing their advantages and disadvantages, usage, and internal workings.

DISCLAIMER: I am not an expert on these tools or Python. I have been a developer for the past 7 years, primarily working with Python. This article reflects my personal opinions and insights gained from some testing with these tools.

Tools i plan to explore

• PyInstaller (https://pyinstaller.org/en/stable/)

• cx_freeze (https://cx-freeze.readthedocs.io/en/stable/)

• shiv (https://shiv.readthedocs.io/en/latest/)

• PeX (https://docs.pex-tool.org/)

• briefcase (https://beeware.org/briefcase/)

• zipapp (https://docs.python.org/3/library/zipapp.html)

• PyOxidizer (https://github.com/indygreg/PyOxidizer)

• Nuitka (https://nuitka.net/)

• PyApp (https://github.com/ofek/pyapp)

• py2exe (https://www.py2exe.org/)

• py2app (https://py2app.readthedocs.io/en/latest/)

• Packaged (https://packaged.live/)

• PyCrucible (https://github.com/razorblade23/PyCrucible)