nvm

New
assess
First Added:June 12, 2026

nvm (Node Version Manager) installs and switches Node.js versions per shell session from .nvmrc. We assess it for Node-only estates; polyglot repos should prefer mise or asdf.

Blurb

nvm allows you to quickly install and use different versions of node via the command line.

Summary

What it is: Bash/zsh script managing Node installs under ~/.nvm with nvm use and nvm install.

When to use: JavaScript-heavy laptops with simple Node pinning needs.

When to skip: Need fast switching or Windows-first ergonomics (fnm). Multiple runtimes beyond Node.

Key features: .nvmrc, LTS aliases, npm global packages per Node version.

Details

TopicNotes
CIPrefer explicit Node version in GitHub Actions over relying on nvm in runners
Contrastfnm for Rust-based speed; mise for all-in-one pins

References