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Python Package and Project Manager Tool – uv

uv is a single tool that replaces pip, pip-tools, pipx, poetry, pyenv, twine, virtualenv, and more.

I’ve mostly used pip, pipenv, and virtualenv in the past, but uv combines most of these tasks into one tool. It’s faster, easier to learn, and highly efficient.

You can find installation instructions and documentation here: https://docs.astral.sh/uv/

Why uv?

  • uv is a Python package and project manager that integrates multiple functionalities into one tool.
  • It enables fast dependency installation, virtual environment management, Python version management, and project initialization, all designed to boost productivity.
  • uv can build and publish Python packages to repositories like PyPI, streamlining the process from development to distribution.
  • It automatically creates and manages virtual environments, ensuring clean and isolated project dependencies.

Usage

Installation

You can install uv from the command line:

  • On Windows, use PowerShell.
  • On macOS/Linux, use curl.
  • You can also install it using pipx:
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pipx install uv

Refer to the official documentation for detailed installation options.

Verify installation

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uv --version

Upgrade to the latest version

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uv self update
# or, if installed via pipx
pipx upgrade uv

Install multiple Python versions

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uv python install 3.10 3.11 3.12

Create a virtual environment with a specific version

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uv venv --python 3.12.0

Pin a specific Python version in the current directory

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uv python pin 3.11

View available and installed Python versions

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uv python list

Remove the uv, uvx, and uvw binaries

For Windows, 

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rm $HOME\.local\bin\uv.exe
rm $HOME\.local\bin\uvx.exe
rm $HOME\.local\bin\uvw.exe
For macOS, 
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rm ~/.local/bin/uv ~/.local/bin/uvx