pixi-package-manager

# Pixi Package Manager for Scientific Python

Master **pixi**, the modern package manager that unifies conda and PyPI ecosystems for fast, reproducible scientific Python development. Learn how to manage complex scientific dependencies, create isolated environments, and build reproducible workflows using `pyproject.toml` integration.

**Official Documentation**: https://pixi.sh
**GitHub**: https://github.com/prefix-dev/pixi

## Quick Reference Card

### Installation & Setup
```bash
# Install pixi (macOS/Linux)
curl -fsSL https://pixi.sh/install.sh | bash

# Install pixi (Windows)
iwr -useb https://pixi.sh/install.ps1 | iex

# Initialize new project with pyproject.toml
pixi init --format pyproject

# Initialize existing Python project
pixi init --format pyproject --import-environment
```

### Essential Commands
```bash
# Add dependencies
pixi add numpy scipy pandas              # conda packages
pixi add --pypi pytest-cov               # PyPI-only packages
pixi add --feature dev pytest ruff       # dev environment

# Install all dependencies
pixi install

# Run commands in environment
pixi run python script.py
pixi run pytest

# Shell with environment activated
pixi shell

# Add tasks
pixi task add test "pytest tests/"
pixi task add docs "sphinx-build docs/ docs/_build"

# Run tasks
pixi run test
pixi run docs

# Update dependencies
pixi update numpy                         # update specific
pixi update                              # update all

# List packages
pixi list
pixi tree numpy                          # show dependency tree
```

### Quick Decision Tree: Pixi vs UV vs Both

```
Need compiled scientific libraries (NumPy, SciPy, GDAL)?
├─ YES → Use pixi (conda-forge has pre-built binaries)
└─ NO → Consider uv for pure Python projects

Need multi-language support (Python + R, Julia, C++)?
├─ YES → Use pixi (supports conda ecosystem)
└─ NO → uv sufficient for Python-only

Need multiple environments (dev, test, prod, GPU, CPU)?
├─ YES → Use pixi features for enviro