apt vs apt-get: Which Package Manager Should You Use on Ubuntu?

1. Concepts

Advanced Package Tool ( apt-get ) is the original command‑line package manager for Debian‑based distributions. It works with .deb packages, resolves dependencies automatically and normally requires root privileges (e.g., via sudo).

The newer apt utility appeared in 2014, first in Debian testing and later in Ubuntu 16.04. It combines the most common functions of apt-get and apt-cache into a simpler syntax and adds a progress bar for user feedback.

2. Differences Between apt-get and apt

2.1 Command Comparison

apt-get update

vs apt update – both refresh the package index; the apt variant also reports how many packages can be upgraded. apt-get install vs apt install – identical functionality; apt is shorter. apt-get remove vs apt remove – identical. apt-get purge vs apt purge – removes packages and their configuration files. apt-get upgrade vs apt upgrade – apt upgrade may install new dependencies, whereas apt-get upgrade never adds or removes packages. apt-get autoremove vs apt autoremove – both clean up unneeded dependencies. apt-get dist-upgrade vs apt full-upgrade – same behavior; the apt name reflects handling of dependencies during upgrades. apt-cache search vs apt search – simplified search command. apt-cache show vs apt show – apt show presents a cleaner output.

2.2 New apt Commands

apt list

– lists packages that match a condition (installed, upgradeable, etc.). apt edit-sources – opens /etc/apt/sources.list in the default editor for manual editing.

2.3 Example Commands

# apt-get update

# apt update

Both commands refresh the package index; the apt version additionally tells you how many packages can be upgraded.

3. Which Tool Should You Use?

No distribution has announced the deprecation of apt-get. It still offers fine‑grained control for low‑level operations and is useful in scripts that rely on its exact semantics.

For everyday interactive use, most distributions now recommend apt because it is shorter, provides progress feedback, and covers the essential functions of apt-get and apt-cache.

Use apt for routine installation, removal, and upgrades.

Retain apt-get when you need the older, more explicit behavior (e.g., in automation scripts).

In summary, regular users should adopt apt for its simplicity and user‑friendly output, while power users may still reach for apt-get for specific low‑level tasks.