| Feature | Bundler (Ruby) | npm/Yarn (JavaScript) | Cargo (Rust) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Manage gem dependencies for Ruby projects | Manage package dependencies for JavaScript projects | Manage crate dependencies and build Rust projects |
| Package Name | Gem | Package/Module | Crate |
| Manifest File | Gemfile | package.json | Cargo.toml |
| Lock File | Gemfile.lock | package-lock.json/yarn.lock | Cargo.lock |
| Default Install Location | vendor/bundle | node_modules | target/ (compiled output), .cargo/registry (downloaded crates) |
| Core Functionality | Resolves and installs gem dependencies based on Gemfile & Gemfile.lock | Resolves and installs package dependencies based on package.json & package-lock.json/yarn.lock | Resolves and builds crate dependencies based on Cargo.toml & Cargo.lock |
| Additional Features | Can bundle gems into a single file | Can run scripts defined in package.json | Built-in commands for building, testing, and running projects |
Yehuda Katz Connection
All three of these tools were heavily influenced by Yehuda Katz's work. Bundler was directly created by him, while npm and Cargo were inspired by his ideas and philosophies around dependency management and build tools.
Key Differences
- Language Focus: Each tool is designed specifically for its respective language (Ruby, JavaScript, Rust).
- Scope: Cargo handles more than just dependency management; it's the primary build tool for Rust projects.
- Ecosystem: Each tool interacts with its language's package repository (RubyGems, npm registry, crates.io).
- Package Managers: While npm is the default for JavaScript, Yarn is an alternative known for speed and efficiency.