Package managers are the core feature of Linux distributions, serving as the ideal method for installing applications on your system. In stark contrast to the vast set of package managers in the Linux ecosystem, Windows users have fairly limited options when it comes to CLI utilities that can offer a straightforward way to set up their favorite apps and services.
Chocolatey is one such package manager on Windows, and while it has its set of drawbacks, it outperforms its rivals on several fronts. If you’ve never used it before, here are three reasons why every Windows 11 user should consider looking into Chocolatey.
You can use Chocolatey the next time you set up a Windows PC to install everything you need at once
Simplify your next Windows PC setup with Chocolatey, a powerful package manager that automates app installations.
3 Easy to set up
And it's just as simple to use
Unlike WinGet and its Linux counterparts, Chocolatey isn’t built into Windows and needs some extra legwork to be installed on the OS. But thanks to a handful PowerShell commands, you can get the package manager up and running at the same time as it takes to finish reading this sentence.
Plus, Chocolatey commands are fairly easy to remember, and you don’t need a keyword cheat sheet to use the package manager effectively.
2 Solid automation provisions
Perfect for home labbers and hardcore users
The only thing more convenient than a package manager is one that automatically installs your favorite applications, and automation is another area where Chocolatey shines with its multitude of integrations.
For Windows users familiar with Powershell coding, you can create custom scripts to deploy and update Chocolatey packages without any human interaction whatsoever. Then you’ve got the Chocolatey module on Ansible that, when used in tandem with properly configured Playbooks, can automatically arm your Windows 11 virtual machines with essential packages and services.
1 Massive package list
Alongside support for multiple package formats
The number of applications available for your perusal is an essential feature for package managers, and Chocolatey has the largest package list out of all its Windows-based rivals. Within the 10K+ package list, you’ll find everything from Windows essentials like PowerToys, Flow Manager, and CrystalDiskInfo to the specialized utilities like VS Code and Blender.
As if that’s not enough, Chocolatey is compatible with script and ZIP packages, so you’ve got more leeway when choosing the right application for your needs.
Is Chocolatey the best package manager for Windows 11?
I’d say yes, but the answer is a bit more nuanced due to certain issues with Chocolatey. While the free version is more than enough for your average user, you’ll have to pay for a premium license to use the package synchronizer facility. For the uninitiated, this neat feature synchronizes applications you've installed from external sources.
Likewise, other useful utilities such as runtime malware protection, installation directory override, and package builder are locked behind a paywall. So, if you prefer FOSS utilities and are willing to deal with a smaller package collection, you might want to stick with WinGet instead.
How to use Windows Package Manager (winget) on Windows 11
Windows Package Manager gives you an easier way to install and manage your apps on WIndows 11 and 10. Here's how to use it.