asdf vs Renovate: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between asdf and Renovate comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
asdf
Manage all your project runtimes with a single CLI tool.
Best for you if:
- • You need terminal tools features specifically
- • Manages multiple runtime versions with a single CLI tool.
- • Uses a plugin system for a wide range of languages and tools.
Renovate
Automated dependency updates
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 7.0/10)
- • You need version control features specifically
- • Renovate is an automated dependency update tool for code repositories
- • It creates pull requests for outdated packages with customizable rules
| At a Glance |  Renovate | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Terminal Tools | Version Control |
Rating | 70/100 | 90/100 |
| Feature | asdf | Renovate |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 70 | 90 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Terminal ToolsAutomation | Version ControlAutomation |
How asdf and Renovate Compare
asdf
Manage all your project runtimes with a single CLI tool.
Free · 70/100 score
Renovate
Automated dependency updates
Free · 90/100 score
asdf is a terminal tools tool. Renovate is in version control.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: asdf
Want the highest-rated option?
asdf: 70/100. Renovate: 90/100.
Go with: Renovate
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Renovate
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are free. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
asdf is a terminal tools tool. Renovate is in version control. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Renovate scores higher: 90/100 vs 70/100.
Key Takeaways
Renovate
- Higher score: 90/100 vs 70
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
asdf
- Better fit for terminal tools
The Bottom Line
Renovate (90/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is asdf or Renovate better?
Renovate scores 90/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are asdf and Renovate used for?
asdf: Manage all your project runtimes with a single CLI tool.. Renovate: Automated dependency updates.
What does asdf cost vs Renovate?
asdf is completely free. Renovate is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.