fnm vs Deno: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between fnm and Deno 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 want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 8.4/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Manages Node.js versions quickly and simply.
- • Built in Rust for speed and cross-platform compatibility.
Deno
The next-generation open-source JavaScript runtime for the modern web, built on web standards.
Best for you if:
- • You need ide & code editors features specifically
- • A secure and modern JavaScript/TypeScript runtime with built-in tooling.
- • Supports web standards, TypeScript, JSX, and integrates with npm/Node.js.
| At a Glance |  fnm |  Deno |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | API Tools | IDE & Code Editors |
Rating | 85/100 | 84/100 |
| Feature | fnm | Deno |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 85 | 84 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsTerminal Tools | IDE & Code EditorsAPI Tools |
How fnm and Deno Compare
fnm
Fast and simple Node.js version manager, built in Rust for cross-platform development.
Free · 85/100 score
Deno
The next-generation open-source JavaScript runtime for the modern web, built on web standards.
Free tier available · 84/100 score
fnm is a api tools tool. Deno is in ide & code editors.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
fnm is free. Deno is freemium.
Go with: fnm
Want the highest-rated option?
fnm: 85/100. Deno: 84/100.
Go with: fnm
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: fnm
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
fnm is free. Deno is freemium. Go with fnm if free matters most.
What's your use case?
fnm is a api tools tool. Deno is in ide & code editors. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
fnm scores higher: 85/100 vs 84/100.
Key Takeaways
fnm
- Higher score: 85/100 vs 84
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Deno
- Better fit for ide & code editors
The Bottom Line
fnm (85/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is fnm or Deno better?
fnm scores 85/100 in our evaluation. fnm is free and Deno is freemium.
What are fnm and Deno used for?
fnm: Fast and simple Node.js version manager, built in Rust for cross-platform development.. Deno: The next-generation open-source JavaScript runtime for the modern web, built on web standards..
What does fnm cost vs Deno?
fnm is completely free. Deno is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.