5 Best Ways to Bundle a Python Tkinter Application Including Dependencies

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💡 Problem Formulation: Python developers often face challenges when trying to distribute their Tkinter applications complete with dependencies to users who may not have the necessary Python environment. This article addresses the process of packaging a Tkinter application and its dependencies into standalone executables. The input is a Python Tkinter application, and the desired output is an executable file that can be run on a user’s computer without requiring a separate Python installation.

Method 1: Using py2exe

Py2exe is a Python extension which converts Python scripts (.py) into Microsoft Windows executables (.exe). This method is suitable for Windows users and does not require the receiver to have Python installed. It allows bundling a Python application, including its dependencies, into a single executable.

Here’s an example:

from distutils.core import setup
import py2exe

setup(
    windows=['app.py'],
    options={
        'py2exe': 
        {
            'packages': ['tkinter'],
        }
    }
)

Output: A directory with app.exe, the standalone Windows executable, and required dependencies.

The code snippet creates a setup script for py2exe, specifying the application file and including the tkinter package in the options. Running this will bundle the tkinter application with all its dependencies into an executable.

Method 2: Using cx_Freeze

cx_Freeze is a set of scripts and modules for freezing Python scripts into executables in a cross-platform manner. It supports Python 3 on Windows and Linux. The frozen bundles are portable and can be distributed without requiring a Python interpreter.

Here’s an example:

from cx_Freeze import setup, Executable

setup(
    name='TkinterApp',
    version='0.1',
    description='A simple Tkinter application.',
    executables=[Executable('app.py', base='Win32GUI')]
)

Output: A build folder containing the application’s executable and all necessary files.

This code snippet demonstrates how to create a minimal setup for creating an executable with cx_Freeze. It specifies the script file, version, description, and executable parameters for a Windows GUI application.

Method 3: Using PyInstaller

PyInstaller can convert Python applications into stand-alone executables under Windows, Linux, and Mac OS X. It’s widely supported, easy to use, and recognizes major Python packages automatically.

Here’s an example:

pyinstaller --onefile --windowed app.py

Output: A single file named app.exe in the dist directory that can be distributed and run standalone.

The command line code snippet is minimal yet powerful, indicating PyInstaller to bundle the tkinter application with all dependencies into one file with a user-friendly windowed GUI.

Method 4: Using py2app

Py2app is a Python setuptools command which will allow you to make standalone macOS application bundles and plugins from Python scripts. This is ideal for Python developers looking to distribute their Tkinter apps on macOS.

Here’s an example:

from setuptools import setup

APP = ['app.py']
OPTIONS = {
    'argv_emulation': True,
    'packages': ['tkinter'],
}

setup(
    app=APP,
    options={'py2app': OPTIONS},
    setup_requires=['py2app'],
)

Output: A folder containing app.app, a standalone application for macOS.

This code snippet defines a setup script tailored for py2app, including specifying the main script and options. It integrates seamlessly with setuptools, requiring minimal additional configuration to bundle your Tkinter application.

Bonus One-Liner Method 5: Using auto-py-to-exe

Auto-py-to-exe is a graphical user interface for PyInstaller. It allows you to effortlessly convert Python scripts into executables by filling out the forms and hitting the convert button in a graphical environment instead of command-line.

Here’s an example:

auto-py-to-exe app.py

Output: Through the GUI, a standalone executable of app.exe will be created.

With just one line of command, you can open up a GUI where you select your script, choose the options provided by PyInstaller, and convert your Tkinter application into an executable.

Summary/Discussion

  • Method 1: py2exe. Ideal for Windows applications. May not support the latest Python versions. Requires Windows for the conversion process.
  • Method 2: cx_Freeze. Cross-platform support for Windows and Linux. More complex configuration may be required for advanced features.
  • Method 3: PyInstaller. Broad platform support and easy to use. Some issues might occur with complex dependencies.
  • Method 4: py2app. Specific to macOS. Smooth integration with Python’s setuptools, but not suitable for other operating systems.
  • Bonus Method 5: auto-py-to-exe. User-friendly GUI for PyInstaller. Simplifies the process but less flexible for automation.