Gleam review

Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

Gleam is an open-source, statically typed programming language and development toolchain with an integrated compiler, build tool, formatter, editor integrations, and package manager. It is designed for developers building applications, libraries, and services that compile to Erlang for the BEAM virtual machine or to JavaScript. The package manager supports Gleam, Erlang/rebar3, and Elixir/Mix dependencies, making it a fit for projects that need to work across those ecosystems while retaining a Gleam-centered workflow.

Dependency management covers automatic version resolution and lockfile generation through manifest.toml. Developers can declare local path dependencies, reference Git dependencies by commit or tag, and separate development-only dependencies from runtime requirements. The CLI also provides commands for listing dependencies, updating them, inspecting the dependency tree, and checking for outdated packages. These features give teams practical visibility into how a project is assembled, while compilation to Erlang or JavaScript keeps package decisions connected to the target runtime.

Gleam also includes Hex package authentication and publishing commands, so the toolchain can cover publishing workflows alongside installation and compilation. Its strongest fit is for teams already choosing Gleam and wanting package management, builds, dependency inspection, and publishing in one CLI. Projects centered on Erlang or Elixir without a Gleam application, or teams requiring private registry authentication, should evaluate whether the integrated approach matches their package infrastructure. Gleam is available on Linux, macOS, and Windows, with Erlang/OTP and JavaScript runtimes part of its supported platform scope.

Gleam pros and cons

• Where it wins
  • Resolves dependencies and generates manifest.toml lockfiles.
  • Supports Gleam, Erlang/rebar3, and Elixir/Mix dependencies.
  • Includes local, Git, development dependency, and Hex publishing workflows.
• Where it doesn't
  • Package management is tied to the Gleam CLI and toolchain.
  • Private registry authentication is not included in the documented category fit.
  • It focuses on Gleam projects rather than standalone package management.

Gleam fact sheet, pricing and score →

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Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update