Python Executable Packaging

Discussions center on tools like PyInstaller, Nuitka, cx_Freeze, and py2exe for bundling Python applications and dependencies into standalone executables or binaries to ease deployment without requiring Python installation.

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Keywords

PySide pyinstaller.org python.org news.y pip.wtf HN PyQt NSIS simonwillison.net PyInstaller python dependencies package binary packaging pip executable script venv application

Sample Comments

tecleandor Dec 24, 2020 View on HN

Instead of PyInstaller, I had success using Nuitka. Doesn't work with every Python package, but I think it's easier to use.

Semiapies Dec 19, 2014 View on HN

I've had good experiences with PyInstaller, if you haven't tried it yet (or recently).

Hamuko Dec 28, 2019 View on HN

I've used PyInstaller at least. Pretty sure there are others as well.

meddlepal Aug 12, 2019 View on HN

I have nightmares of dealing with Python packaging... I finally gave up and just started using PyInstaller to ship binary blobs to people.

hprotagonist May 28, 2020 View on HN

pyinstaller, shiv, pex, docker: depending on use case, any of these may be appropriate.

_a_a_a_ Mar 31, 2023 View on HN

My Python isn't very good so I'm not familiar with your cxFreeze/pyOxidizer/pyInstaller list, but couldn't you just develop your python using one of these tools from the start?

1337shadow Nov 16, 2021 View on HN

I'm sorry, doesn't pip already works there? Otherwise, there's pyinstaller which is great but it requires an entrypoint so it won't do with a pure lib that doesn't expose any script at all.

_mlbt Mar 30, 2025 View on HN

You could always use something like PyInstaller...https://pyinstaller.org

snovv_crash Jun 12, 2021 View on HN

There are many ways of doing this for Python... pyinstaller, py2exe, Nuitka to name a few

mlboss Jun 16, 2022 View on HN

Nice! How does the packaging works ? Is it through pyinstaller ?