Docker Swarm Visualizer vs Lens: What are the differences?

Docker Swarm Visualizer vs Lens

Introduction

In the world of container orchestration, both Docker Swarm Visualizer and Lens are popular tools used to manage Docker Swarm clusters. While they serve similar purposes, there are key differences between the two worth exploring.

1. User Interface:

Docker Swarm Visualizer provides a simple, graphical representation of the Docker Swarm cluster. It allows users to visualize the nodes, services, and tasks in a cluster using a web-based interface. On the other hand, Lens offers a more advanced user interface with additional features and functionalities. It provides a comprehensive view of the cluster, including real-time metrics, logs, and resource usage.

2. Monitoring and Analytics:

Docker Swarm Visualizer offers basic monitoring capabilities, allowing users to view the status of services and nodes in the cluster. However, it does not provide detailed metrics or analytics. In contrast, Lens goes beyond monitoring by offering advanced analytics and insights into the cluster's performance. It allows users to track resource consumption, identify bottlenecks, and analyze historical data.

3. Multi-cluster Support:

Docker Swarm Visualizer is primarily designed for visualizing single Docker Swarm clusters and does not support managing multiple clusters. On the other hand, Lens excels in managing multi-cluster environments. It allows users to easily switch between multiple clusters and provides a unified view for managing and monitoring them.

4. Extensibility and Customization:

Docker Swarm Visualizer provides limited options for customization and extensibility. Users can configure basic settings such as the refresh rate and node colors, but there are limited options for customization beyond that. In contrast, Lens is highly extensible and allows users to customize the interface, add custom dashboards, and integrate with third-party plugins. It provides a more flexible and customizable experience for users.

5. Integration with Other Tools:

Docker Swarm Visualizer does not offer direct integration with other tools or platforms. It is a standalone tool with limited integrations. On the other hand, Lens has built-in integrations with various popular DevOps tools and platforms. It can seamlessly integrate with Kubernetes, Helm, GitOps workflows, and more. This makes Lens a more preferred choice for users looking for a tool that integrates well within their existing DevOps ecosystem.

6. Community and Support:

Docker Swarm Visualizer has been widely adopted by the Docker Swarm community and has a large user base. However, it is not actively maintained by Docker. On the other hand, Lens is backed by Mirantis, a company known for its contributions to the Kubernetes ecosystem. Lens benefits from active development and continuous updates, ensuring a more reliable and supported tool.

Summary

In summary, Docker Swarm Visualizer and Lens differ in their user interface, monitoring capabilities, multi-cluster support, extensibility, integration options, and community support.