Mas CLI VS macapps.link

• Convenience
  Mas CLI allows users to easily manage macOS App Store applications from the command line, which can be more convenient and faster for those familiar with terminal operations compared to navigating the App Store GUI.
• Automation
  The ability to script installations and updates with Mas CLI enables automation of tasks, making it a powerful tool for system administrators and power users to manage app deployments and updates across multiple machines.
• Efficiency
  Mas CLI can handle batch operations efficiently, allowing users to install and update multiple applications in one command, saving time and reducing manual effort.
• Version Control
  Users can specify specific app versions to install or downgrade to desired versions, providing more control over the application's lifecycle and compatibility.

Possible disadvantages

• Limited to Mac App Store
  Mas CLI only works with applications from the macOS App Store, which means it cannot manage or manipulate applications downloaded from other sources.
• Dependency on Mas Support
  Any changes or updates in the macOS App Store’s API or authentication methods could affect the functionality of Mas CLI, making it potentially less reliable if not frequently updated by the community.
• Lack of GUI
  While command-line functionality can be powerful, the lack of a graphical user interface may deter users unfamiliar with terminal operations, limiting its ease of use for less technical users.
• Feature Limitations
  Mas CLI may not support all features of the Mac App Store, such as in-app purchases, subscriptions, or interactive app handling, potentially requiring hybrid use of both CLI and GUI.

• Batch Installation
  macapps.link allows users to select multiple applications and generate a single terminal command that installs all selected apps in one go, which can save time and effort.
• User-Friendly Interface
  The website offers a straightforward and easy-to-use interface where users can quickly select and deselect apps to tailor their installation package.
• Open Source
  The project is open-source, meaning that users can inspect the code for transparency and potentially contribute improvements or customizations.
• Efficient for New Setups
  It is particularly useful for setting up new Macs, reducing the hassle of downloading and installing each application individually.

Possible disadvantages

• Limited App Selection
  The selection of applications may not be as comprehensive as other app installers, limiting users to the offered list of applications.
• Security Concerns
  Users might be cautious about running generated scripts from the internet due to potential security and privacy risks, even if the service is reputable.
• Dependency on Command Line
  Users need to be comfortable using the terminal to execute the installation script, which might not be ideal for those unfamiliar with command-line operations.
• No Custom Installations
  The service does not allow for installation of custom or non-listed apps, which could be a downside for users who have specific software needs outside of the provided list.

• A 100x faster* alternative to homebrew

  Directory specific tools (versioned if necessary) that are managed in declarative fashion is great. I use Brewfile too. Still prefer some stuff to be managed by brew. For example the browsers, App Store apps (managed via mas[1]) [1]... - Source: Hacker News / about 1 month ago

• From Fresh Mac to Productive in 30 Minutes

  I always thought Mac App Store apps couldn't be automated. Turns out, there's a tool called mas (Mac App Store CLI) that allows you to automate installation of Mac App Store apps. - Source: dev.to / 11 months ago

• Microsoft wants Windows Update to handle all apps

  MacOS has a graphical AppStore but no easy way to run an update from command line. There's third-party project - mas[1] but it's limited by Apple constantly changing APIs. [1] - Source: Hacker News / over 1 year ago

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Tracking macapps.link since Mar 2021.