AWS CLI vs AWS Shell: What are the differences?

AWS CLI (Command Line Interface) and AWS Shell are both command-line tools provided by Amazon Web Services (AWS) for interacting with AWS services. Let's explore the key differences between them.

1. Ease of Use: AWS Shell is designed to provide an interactive command-line interface with contextual help and auto-completion features. It aims to be user-friendly, especially for beginners, by reducing the need to memorize complex command structures and providing intuitive prompts. On the other hand, AWS CLI offers a more direct and flexible approach with a wide range of commands and options, targeted towards advanced users and scripting automation.

2. Command Syntax: AWS CLI follows a more traditional command syntax, where commands are structured with a verb followed by options and parameters. In contrast, AWS Shell utilizes natural language syntax, allowing users to interact using plain English-like statements.

3. Integration with other Tools: AWS CLI has extensive support for scripting and automation, making it well-suited for integration with other tools and workflows. It can easily be embedded within shell scripts or utilized as part of larger automation frameworks. AWS Shell, on the other hand, prioritizes interactive usage and may not provide the same level of integration capabilities for complex automation scenarios.

4. Feature Set: AWS CLI offers access to the full range of AWS services and their functionalities, including advanced features and options. It covers a wide range of use cases, such as managing instances, configuring security groups, or interacting with AWS APIs. AWS Shell, while providing access to most common AWS services, may not have the same level of coverage for all services and advanced functionalities. It focuses more on usability and streamlined interactions.

5. Extensions and Plugins: AWS CLI has a rich ecosystem of extensions and plugins developed by the community, providing additional functionality beyond the core command set. These extensions can enhance AWS CLI with new features, such as simplified output formatting, session management, or additional service integrations. AWS Shell, being a simpler tool, may not offer the same extensibility and plugin ecosystem.

6. Dependence on AWS CLI: AWS Shell is built on top of AWS CLI, utilizing the same underlying infrastructure and libraries. It extends AWS CLI to provide a more user-friendly and interactive experience. This means that AWS Shell inherits the capabilities and features of AWS CLI and can benefit from future updates and improvements. However, this also means that AWS Shell requires the AWS CLI to be installed and configured properly.

In summary, AWS Shell offers an interactive command-line interface with user-friendly features like contextual help and auto-completion, catering to beginners. In contrast, AWS CLI provides a more flexible approach suited for advanced users and scripting automation, with extensive support for a wide range of AWS services and functionalities. While AWS CLI boasts a rich ecosystem of extensions and plugins for added functionality, AWS Shell inherits its capabilities from AWS CLI and requires its installation for proper use.