appimagetool vs InstallBuilder

appimagetool is a free Linux command-line utility that creates an AppImage from an existing AppDir. It is intended for application authors packaging desktop Linux software for distribution across common Linux distributions. The project describes it as a low-level component and recommends community higher-level tools for most users. Command-line options cover listing AppImage files, setting or guessing update information, selecting Squashfs compression, and excluding files. GPG signing is supported with a signing key and additional arguments. When update information is embedded and zsyncmake is installed, the tool can create a zsync file. Build instructions list x86_64, i686, aarch64, and armhf targets. The current version downloads the latest AppImage runtime, or accepts a local runtime file. Update information can be guessed from GitHub Actions and GitLab CI environment variables. An AppDir is required, and ARCH must be set when binary architecture cannot be determined, such as with multiple architectures or shell scripts. Source code is under the MIT License, subject to stated exceptions and dependency terms.

InstallBuilder provides tools for packaging, deploying, and updating software. From one project file and build environment, it creates native cross-platform installers, RPM and Debian packages, and CD or DVD media. Output options also include self-contained executables, DMG, and ZIP. Installers can present a graphical interface, run in text mode, or install silently. Teams can use an XML project format with source control integration and external scripts, and automate builds through the command-line interface. Installers are single-file executables with built-in LZMA compression and no external dependencies; optional downloadable components are fetched only when selected during installation. The product supports automatic updates, Windows and OS X installer signing with PKCS#12 or PFX certificates, and password-protected encrypted payloads. Platform-specific licenses, Professional and Enterprise editions, and site licenses are listed. Prices start at $995, paid once, with one year of support and updates included. A fully functional evaluation copy is available through the download form.