Installation Methods Comparison

Core Options

	Hummingbot + Dashboard	Docker Standalone	Source Installation
Complexity	Easiest	Moderate	Most Complex
Audience	New users, GUI preference	Most users, CLI comfortable	Developers, Code Modifiers
Customization	Limited (UI-based)	Config files only	Full code access
Maintenance	Automatic updates	Manual version management	Manual build/update
Multi-Instance	Managed via Dashboard	Manual Docker commands	Possible, but not recommended
DEX Support	Some, depending on API	Requires separate Gateway	Requires separate Gateway

When to Choose Which?

• Dashboard + Hummingbot
  Choose if:

  • You prefer a graphical interface
  • Managing multiple bots/strategies
  • New to algorithmic trading
  • Want built-in backtesting tools

  Limitations:
  - Less low-level control
  - Requires more system resources

• Docker Standalone
  Choose if:

  • Comfortable with CLI
  • Want isolated environments
  • Need multiple instances
  • Prefer easy version switching

  Limitations:
  - Can't modify core code
  - Manual certificate management

• Source Installation
  Choose if:

  • Developing custom strategies
  • Modifying Hummingbot core
  • Testing unreleased features
  • Advanced debugging needs

  Limitations:
  - Complex setup
  - Dependency conflicts possible

FAQ

Can I run multiple methods together?
Yes - Dashboard can manage Docker instances while you run separate source installations.

Which is most resource-efficient?
Docker standalone (no GUI overhead), followed by Source.

How to switch versions?
- Dashboard: Automatic through UI
- Docker: Edit image: tag
- Source: git checkout tags