I am not sure whether to run with Docker or run locally. Which one should I choose?¶
Use this quick comparison to choose a run mode.
| Mode | Good | Bad | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Docker run | Fastest setup; reproducible environment; fewer dependency/version issues; easier onboarding for new users | Docker install required; container startup overhead; file mounts/permissions can be confusing; less convenient for editing internals | First-time users, tutorials, shared team workflows, reproducible reruns |
| Local run | Direct access to local files/tools; easier debugging and profiling; no container boundary; easier to customize and extend | More setup effort; dependency conflicts are more likely; environments can drift across machines | Power users, developers, custom pipelines, tight integration with local tooling/HPC modules |
Quick decision rule¶
- Choose Docker if your priority is getting started quickly and reproducibly.
-
Choose local if your priority is deep customization, debugging, or development.
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Docker guide: Run with Docker
- Local guide: Run Locally