CMake vs Make

Introduction

CMake and Make are two popular build systems used to manage the compilation and building process of software applications. Both serve the same purpose of automating the build process, but they differ in terms of their capabilities, functionality, and usage.

This article will provide an in-depth comparison between CMake and Make, outlining their features, benefits, and differences. We will also discuss which system may be more suitable for different types of projects.

CMake

CMake is an open-source build system that supports multiple programming languages, including C++, C, and Fortran. It uses a simple scripting language to describe the build process, which generates makefiles or project files for specific platforms and compilers. CMake provides a high degree of flexibility and allows developers to define custom build targets, dependencies, and configurations.

Advantages of CMake

• Platform-independent: CMake generates platform-specific build files, allowing developers to build their applications on any platform without making changes to the build scripts.
• Modular structure: CMake has a modular structure that supports multiple build environments and tools, making it easy to integrate with other build systems.
• Configurable: CMake allows developers to configure the build process to include specific options, such as compiler flags, architecture, and optimization settings.
• Cross-compilation: CMake supports cross-compilation, allowing developers to build their applications for different architectures.

Disadvantages of CMake

• Steep learning curve: CMake has a steep learning curve, which may be challenging for novice developers unfamiliar with its syntax.
• Complexity: The customization options and flexibility of CMake can lead to complex build scripts that are difficult to troubleshoot.

Make

Make is a build automation tool that is commonly used to compile and build programs written in C, C++, and other programming languages. Make uses a set of rules and dependencies defined in a makefile to compile source code and link objects, resulting in an executable binary file.

Advantages of Make

• Simple structure: Make uses a simple, easy-to-understand syntax, making it easy for developers to create and maintain makefiles.
• High performance: Make is known for its high performance, capable of compiling large-scale projects quickly and efficiently.
• Portability: Make is available on most platforms, making it easy to create and manage builds on multiple operating systems.

Disadvantages of Make

• Limited customization: Make has limited customization options compared to other build systems, making it less flexible for complex projects.
• Platform-dependent: Makefiles are platform-dependent, making it challenging to use the same build scripts to compile code across different operating systems.

Conclusion

Both CMake and Make are powerful build systems used to automate the build process of software applications. CMake offers more advanced features, such as cross-compilation and platform independence, while Make is a simpler, more lightweight option with high performance.

Deciding which build system to use ultimately depends on project requirements and developer preferences. However, CMake is the more popular choice for larger and more complex projects, while Make is an excellent option for small to medium-sized applications.