electron-builder supports packaging for multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. It provides extensive configuration options for each platform, allowing for fine-tuned control over the packaging process.

electron-winstaller is focused on Windows platform only. It is designed to create Windows installers (MSI and NSIS) and does not support packaging for macOS or Linux.

electron-forge also supports multiple platforms, but its primary focus is on simplifying the development workflow. It provides a more streamlined experience for cross-platform packaging, but may not offer as much configurability as electron-builder.

electron-builder offers a high level of customization, allowing developers to configure almost every aspect of the packaging process. This includes setting application icons, defining file associations, configuring auto-updates, and more.

electron-winstaller allows for some customization of the installer creation process, such as setting the application name, version, and icon. However, it is more limited in scope compared to the other two tools.

electron-forge provides a good amount of customization, especially for project setup and build scripts. However, it is designed to be opinionated and may not offer the same level of detailed configurability as electron-builder for packaging.

electron-builder has a steeper learning curve due to its extensive feature set and configuration options. However, its documentation is thorough, and once configured, it provides a powerful packaging solution.

electron-winstaller is straightforward to use for creating Windows installers. Its API is simple, but it is limited to Windows, which may require additional tools for cross-platform packaging.

electron-forge is known for its ease of use, especially for beginners. It provides a simple CLI and integrates well with other tools, making it easy to set up and package applications quickly.

electron-builder supports code signing for all platforms, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. It provides detailed documentation on how to set up code signing, which is essential for distributing applications securely.

electron-winstaller supports code signing for Windows installers, but it does not provide built-in support for code signing on other platforms.

electron-forge supports code signing, but it may require additional configuration and integration with external tools. It is not as comprehensive as electron-builder in this regard.

Example of electron-builder configuration in package.json:

{
  "name": "my-app",
  "version": "1.0.0",
  "main": "main.js",
  "build": {
    "appId": "com.example.myapp",
    "win": {
      "icon": "build/icon.ico"
    },
    "mac": {
      "icon": "build/icon.icns"
    },
    "linux": {
      "icon": "build/icon.png"
    }
  }
}

Example of electron-winstaller usage:

const { createWindowsInstaller } = require('electron-winstaller');

async function createInstaller() {
  await createWindowsInstaller({
    appDirectory: 'my-app-win32-x64',
    outputDirectory: 'installer',
    setupIcon: 'build/icon.ico',
    setupExe: 'my-app-setup.exe',
  });
}

createInstaller();

Example of electron-forge usage:

electron-forge init my-app
cd my-app
electron-forge make