ktfmt vs ktlint: What are the differences?

Introduction

Here are the key differences between ktfmt and ktlint:

1. Formatting approach:

   • ktfmt uses an automated formatting approach and aims for consistency in code formatting. It reformats an entire file to adhere to a specific set of formatting rules.
   • ktlint focuses on style guidelines and enforces code quality and style conventions. It does not perform automated formatting; instead, it provides suggestions and flags violations of the defined style rules.

2. Configuration flexibility:

   • ktfmt has limited configuration options and primarily follows the default formatting rules. It aims for simplicity and ease of use without requiring extensive manual configuration.
   • ktlint offers extensive configuration options, allowing developers to customize the desired coding style. It provides a wide range of rules that can be enabled, disabled, or modified according to specific project requirements.

3. Integration with build tools and IDEs:

   • ktfmt provides seamless integration with build tools and can be integrated into existing build pipelines and workflows. It supports popular tools like Gradle, Bazel, and Pants.
   • ktlint offers plugins for various IDEs like IntelliJ IDEA, Android Studio, and Visual Studio Code. These plugins provide real-time linting and code analysis, making it easier to adhere to the defined style rules during development.

4. Rule coverage:

   • ktfmt focuses primarily on code formatting and indentation-related rules. It ensures consistent formatting throughout the codebase but may not catch other potential code quality issues or style violations.
   • ktlint covers a broader range of style rules and aims to enforce consistent coding practices. It checks for style violations, potential bugs, and anti-patterns, allowing for better code quality and maintainability.

5. Community support and ecosystem:

   • ktfmt has relatively fewer users and a smaller community compared to ktlint. It may offer limited resources, plugins, and community-driven extensions.
   • ktlint has a larger user base and an active community, resulting in broader support, a wider range of plugins, and a more extensive ecosystem. It benefits from community-driven improvements and contributions.

6. Adherence to specific style guides:

   • ktfmt does not enforce adherence to specific style guides. It focuses on consistent formatting based on its predefined rules but does not impose any specific coding style.
   • ktlint includes built-in style guides, such as the official Android Kotlin Style Guide. It encourages developers to follow these style guides to ensure consistency and maintainability in Kotlin codebases.

In summary, ktfmt primarily focuses on automated code formatting with limited configuration options, while ktlint emphasizes style guidelines, offers extensive configuration flexibility, and checks for a broader range of code quality and style violations. Ktfmt integrates well with build tools, while ktlint provides dedicated IDE plugins for real-time linting. Ktlint also benefits from a larger community and ecosystem.