Makeself VS InstallBuilder

• Portability
  Makeself generates self-extracting archives that are shell script-based, ensuring compatibility across different Linux and UNIX systems without requiring additional software.
• Ease of Use
  Creating self-extracting archives is straightforward, using simple command-line instructions to bundle files into a single executable.
• Customization
  Allows scripts to be executed before or after extraction, providing flexibility to define custom installation or setup processes.
• Compression Support
  Supports various compression methods (gzip, bzip2, xz) to reduce the size of the archive, optimizing storage and transfer.
• No Dependencies
  Does not introduce runtime dependencies, as it relies on standard shell scripting and common Unix tools available on most systems.

Possible disadvantages

• Security Risks
  Self-extracting archives can potentially execute harmful scripts if tampered with, posing a security risk if distributed unchecked.
• Limited to Command Line
  Operates entirely through the command line, which might be less accessible to users who prefer GUI-based tools for creating archives.
• Lack of Advanced Features
  Lacks some advanced features found in other packaging tools, such as dependency resolution, automatic updates, or integrated uninstall options.
• Platform Limits
  Primarily designed for UNIX-like systems, which means native Windows support is not available without additional compatibility layers.
• Not Ideal for Large Software
  Might not be suitable for packaging complex applications that require detailed installation processes or dependency management.

• Cross-Platform Support
  InstallBuilder supports multiple platforms including Windows, macOS, Linux, and more, enabling developers to create a single, unified installer for all major operating systems.
• Flexible Licensing
  It offers flexible licensing options which can accommodate the needs of both individual developers and enterprises, ensuring that a variety of use cases can be met.
• Custom Configuration
  Developers can customize installers extensively to meet specific needs, including branding options and defining installer behaviors, providing high levels of control over the installation process.
• Automated Update Capabilities
  InstallBuilder includes built-in support for auto-updating applications, which helps in keeping software up-to-date after installation without user intervention.
• Ease of Use
  The tool features an intuitive GUI and a user-friendly command-line interface, making it accessible for developers with varying degrees of experience.

Possible disadvantages

• Complexity for Beginners
  Despite its user-friendly interface, some users might find the wealth of features and options overwhelming if they don't have prior experience with complex software installers.
• Licensing Costs
  For smaller developers or companies with limited budgets, the cost of licensing might be a barrier, especially if only basic features are needed that are also offered in free tools.
• Learning Curve
  Getting acquainted with the full scope of its features might require a significant time investment, especially for understanding advanced configurations and scripting capabilities.
• Dependency Management
  Managing software dependencies can be challenging, particularly for complex projects or when dealing with platform-specific libraries and requirements.
• Limitations in Community Support
  Compared to open-source installer builders, it might have limited community support and resources, potentially making it harder to find solutions for uncommon issues without official support.

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Discover InstallBuilder the installer for linux that works like windows installers.

Tracking Makeself since Mar 2021.

• How to build a CMake depended program in a system that doesn't have it ?

  If you want an easy way to create installers for both Linux, Mac and Windows there is https://installbuilder.com/. Source: over 4 years ago

• Downloadable App

  We use InstallBuilder because the works for both Linux, Windows and Mac. Haven't tried others so don't know how it compares in terms of ease of use, features etc. Source: almost 5 years ago