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Castov
Head-to-Head NPM Comparison

pnpmvsnpm

Detailed package comparison for bundle size, weekly downloads, supply chain security, and license obligations.

Weekly Downloads Leader
pnpm134.5M/wk
Security Grade Leader
npm100/100
TypeScript Ready
External Types
Specification
pnpmv12.14.0
npmv12.2.1
Weekly Downloads134.5MWinner10.0M
Unpacked Size3.98 MB11.85 MB
Security Grade
B(75/100)
A+(100/100)
Lifecycle Scripts Has install scripts Clean (No scripts)
TypeScript SupportCommunity @typesCommunity @types
License TypeMITPERMISSIVEArtistic-2.0UNKNOWN
Direct Dependencies068
Active Maintainers24
Last ReleaseOct 15, 2026Oct 15, 2026
Install Commandnpm i pnpmnpm i npm
Full Security ReportView pnpm AuditView npm Audit
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Frequently Asked Questions

Which package is more popular, pnpm or npm?
pnpm is currently more popular with higher weekly downloads (134.5M/week) compared to npm (10.0M/week).
Which has better supply chain security, pnpm or npm?
pnpm has a security score of 75/100 (Grade B), while npm holds 100/100 (Grade A+). npm scores higher for supply chain hygiene.
Do pnpm and npm provide TypeScript definitions?
pnpm may require external @types definitions, while npm may require community @types definitions.
What licenses do pnpm and npm use?
pnpm is published under the MIT license (PERMISSIVE), and npm is licensed under Artistic-2.0 (UNKNOWN).