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SPECIFICTION
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goenv

github.com

Free plan macOSLinux
Visit github.com
Spec score 7.7 #10 of 30 in Runtime Version Managers

What it is

goenv manages Go versions on Linux and macOS using a model similar to pyenv and rbenv. It supports global selections, per-project versions, and environment-variable overrides. Shim executables placed in PATH route Go commands to the selected installation, enabling automatic switching and project version pinning. The installation guide says goenv downloads prebuilt Go binaries provided by Google, while new Go versions are added automatically on a daily cron schedule. The project identifies v3 as its current stable version and recommends it for new installations; it says v3 is fully backward compatible with v2. Version 2 receives security patches and critical bug fixes, with support ending on or before December 31, 2028. Setup documentation covers Bash and Zsh, including a .bashrc note for Ubuntu. Installation options include Homebrew and ZPlug for Zsh, and the README includes AWS CodeBuild guidance. goenv is free under the MIT license.

Spec sheet

Purpose
goenv manages Go versions using a model similar to pyenv and rbenv.Read 3 Oct 2026 · github.com
Integrations
The installation page documents Homebrew and a ZPlug plugin manager for Zsh.Read 3 Oct 2026 · github.com
License
The repository identifies its license as MIT.Read 3 Oct 2026 · github.com
CI usage
The README includes guidance for using goenv in AWS CodeBuild.Read 3 Oct 2026 · github.com
Command routing
goenv uses shim executables in PATH to route Go commands to the selected installation.Read 3 Oct 2026 · github.com
Compatibility
The project says v3 is fully backward compatible with v2.Read 3 Oct 2026 · github.com
Current release
The project identifies v3 as its current stable version and recommends it for new installations.Read 3 Oct 2026 · github.com
Legacy support
The project says v2 receives security patches and critical bug fixes, with support ending on or before December 31, 2028.Read 3 Oct 2026 · github.com
Shell setup
The installation guide gives setup instructions for Bash and Zsh, and notes Ubuntu users should edit .bashrc.Read 3 Oct 2026 · github.com
Supported systems
The README documents Homebrew installation for macOS and Linux.Read 3 Oct 2026 · github.com
Version discovery
New Go versions are added automatically on a daily cron schedule.Read 3 Oct 2026 · github.com
Version installation
The installation guide says goenv downloads and places prebuilt Go binaries provided by Google.Read 3 Oct 2026 · github.com
Version selection
It supports global, per-project, and environment-variable overrides for the Go version.Read 3 Oct 2026 · github.com

Plans and prices

goenv Free Go version management · MIT license Read 3 Oct 2026 · github.com

Every goenv plan and price →

Strong points and limits

Strong points

  • Global and per-project Go version selection
  • Environment-variable overrides
  • PATH shims route commands automatically
  • Daily discovery of new Go versions
  • MIT-licensed and free

Limits

  • Supports Linux and macOS only
  • Version 2 support ends on or before December 31, 2028
  • Requires shell setup for Bash or Zsh

Who it suits

goenv suits Go developers on Linux or macOS who need different versions globally, per project, or through environment variables. It also fits shell-based workflows and CI usage such as AWS CodeBuild.

Verdict

goenv provides flexible Go version selection with shims, project pinning, and shell integration. Its current v3 line is recommended for new installations, while v2 remains supported only through its stated end date.

Where Specifiction places it

Alternatives to goenvAll alternatives →