cx_Freeze vs py2exe

Side-by-side — pricing, strengths, tradeoffs, and fit.

cx_Freeze

Convert Python scripts into standalone executables and installers for Windows, macOS, and Linux.

py2exe

Freezes Python scripts into standalone Windows executables.

At a glance

Open SourceFree Tier
● Established·From $0
Open SourceFree Tier
● Established·From $0

Overview

One-liner

Convert Python scripts into standalone executables and installers for Windows, macOS, and Linux.

One-liner

Freezes Python scripts into standalone Windows executables.

Maturity

Established

Maturity

Established

Open source

✓ Yes

Open source

✓ Yes

Pricing

Free tier

✓ Available

Open source — free to use

Free tier

✓ Available

Open source — free to use

Starts at

$0

Starts at

$0

Model

Flat rate

Model

Flat rate

Enterprise

✕ None

Enterprise

✕ None

Best for

✓ Best for

Developers who need to distribute Python applications across different platforms without requiring users to have Python installed.
Teams building cross-platform desktop applications in Python that require a seamless installation process.

✓ Best for

Python developers looking to distribute their applications on Windows without requiring the end-user to install Python.
Developers who need to create portable versions of Python-based tools or utilities for distribution.

Not ideal for

✕ Not for

Projects needing real-time updates or continuous integration with the latest Python libraries.
Applications that heavily rely on dynamic dependencies not supported by cx_Freeze.

✕ Not for

Projects that require cross-platform support beyond Windows.
Applications that heavily rely on dynamic updates and frequent changes, as executables are static.

Strengths

↑ Strengths

Converts Python scripts into standalone executables and installers.
Supports multiple platforms including Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Does not require the end-user to have Python installed.

↑ Strengths

Converts Python scripts into standalone Windows executables.
Does not require end-users to install Python.
Supports various Python libraries and modules.

Weaknesses

↓ Weaknesses

Limited documentation and community support
Performance overhead for large applications
Complex setup and configuration for complex projects
Limited support for certain Python packages

↓ Weaknesses

Limited support for newer Python features and libraries
Complex setup and configuration process
Performance overhead when running converted applications
Lack of comprehensive documentation and community support
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