| Fastest install for Python-only deps |
uv only |
Rust speed, caching, lock files, modern. |
| Managing Python + native libs (e.g., CUDA, OpenCV) |
conda |
Handles non-Python binaries easily, NVIDIA packages. |
| All-in-one modern workflow (Python versions + deps) |
rye only |
Single tool, pyproject-based, modern. |
| Multiple Python versions only |
pyenv only |
Stable, proven version manager. |
| Stable Python versions + fast installs |
pyenv + uv |
Battle-tested combo, covers both speed & stability. |
| Legacy/simple projects with minimal deps |
pip (normal) |
Built-in, works everywhere, no extra setup. |
| Reproducible builds with lock file |
uv only or rye only |
Built-in lock support, no need for pip-tools. |
| Training on HPC or GPU cluster |
conda |
Better for GPU/CUDA dependency management. |
| Production Docker images |
uv only |
Minimal base image, fast CI/CD builds. |
| Cross-language projects (Python + R, C++) |
conda |
Package manager not tied to Python only. |
| Large legacy codebase already using requirements.txt |
pip or pip + venv |
Minimal changes, keep it simple. |