fnm vs Bun: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between fnm and Bun 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:
fnm
Fast and simple Node.js version manager, built in Rust for cross-platform development.
Best for you if:
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Manages Node.js versions quickly and simply.
- • Built in Rust for speed and cross-platform compatibility.
Bun
Fast JavaScript runtime and package manager
Best for you if:
- • You need ide & code editors features specifically
- • Bun is an all-in-one JavaScript runtime and toolkit designed for speed
- • It provides a bundler, test runner, and package manager that's dramatically faster than Node
| At a Glance |  fnm |  Bun |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | API Tools | IDE & Code Editors |
Rating | 85/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | fnm | Bun |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 85 | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsTerminal Tools | IDE & Code EditorsTerminal Tools |
How fnm and Bun Compare
fnm
Fast and simple Node.js version manager, built in Rust for cross-platform development.
Free · 85/100 score
Bun
Fast JavaScript runtime and package manager
Free · 85/100 score
fnm is a api tools tool. Bun is in ide & code editors.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: fnm
Want the highest-rated option?
fnm: 85/100. Bun: 85/100.
Go with: fnm
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: fnm
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?
fnm is a api tools tool. Bun is in ide & code editors. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Both score 85/100.
Key Takeaways
fnm
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Bun
- Better fit for ide & code editors
The Bottom Line
fnm (85/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is fnm or Bun better?
fnm scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are fnm and Bun used for?
fnm: Fast and simple Node.js version manager, built in Rust for cross-platform development.. Bun: Fast JavaScript runtime and package manager.
What does fnm cost vs Bun?
fnm is completely free. Bun is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.