Xmake is a cross-platform build utility and package manager designed for C and C++ development. It functions as a unified build automation tool that uses a Lua-based domain-specific language to define project targets, manage dependencies, and orchestrate compilation across multiple operating systems and hardware architectures.
The system distinguishes itself through a modular, rule-based approach to task orchestration and toolchain integration. By abstracting native build systems and compilers, it allows developers to maintain consistent project configurations while targeting diverse environments, including mobile, web, and embedded hardware. It also provides built-in support for generating project boilerplate and exporting configurations for various integrated development environments.
Beyond core compilation, the tool integrates the entire development lifecycle into a single command-line interface. This includes automated dependency resolution, incremental caching to accelerate build times, and native binary distribution. It also features real-time build visualization, integrated debugging, and the ability to execute built targets directly to verify functionality.
The software is distributed as a single portable executable, requiring no complex local installation or environment variable configuration to operate.
