Understanding the Difference Between apt-get install and apt install in linux

When managing packages on a Linux system, especially those based on Debian, you may encounter two commonly used commands: sudo apt-get install and sudo apt install. While both commands are used to install software packages, they have some differences that are important to understand. In this post, we’ll break down these two commands and clarify when to use each one.

What is apt-get?

apt-get is a command-line tool that is part of the Advanced Package Tool (APT) suite. It has been around for a long time and is widely used for package management in Debian-based systems such as Ubuntu. The apt-get command provides a more detailed and traditional interface for managing packages.

Example Usage:

sudo apt-get install package-name

What is apt?

apt is a newer command that was introduced as a more user-friendly interface for package management. It combines the functionalities of several older commands, including apt-get, apt-cache, and others, into a single command-line tool. The apt command is designed to simplify package management tasks while providing essential features.

Example Usage:

sudo apt install package-name

Key Differences

1. User Experience:
   • apt is intended to be more user-friendly. It provides a progress bar during installations and presents information in a more readable format.
   • apt-get outputs information in a more verbose manner, which may be preferred by advanced users who want detailed feedback.
2. Functionality:
   • While both commands can install packages, apt also includes some additional features, such as the ability to automatically remove unused packages after installation using the autoremove feature.
   • apt-get remains more stable for scripting and automation because it has less frequent changes and retains backward compatibility.
3. Commands:
   • The apt command consolidates several commands into one. For example, apt update, apt upgrade, and apt search are all easily executed with apt.
   • In contrast, apt-get requires separate commands for similar actions, such as apt-get update and apt-get upgrade.
4. Output:
   • apt provides more user-friendly output. It includes colored text and progress bars, making it easier for users to follow the installation process.
   • apt-get has a more traditional output style, which may be less visually appealing but more informative in some contexts.

When to Use Each

• Use apt-get:
  • When scripting or automating tasks, as it provides a stable interface.
  • If you prefer detailed output and a more traditional approach.
• Use apt:
  • For everyday package management tasks where user-friendliness is a priority.
  • If you appreciate progress bars and simplified commands.

Conclusion

Both sudo apt-get install and sudo apt install are effective commands for managing packages on Debian-based systems. Understanding their differences can help you choose the right tool for your needs. Whether you prefer the traditional approach of apt-get or the modern convenience of apt, both commands are invaluable for any Linux user.