Tool

Introduction

Tool refers to a utility used to generate or process Kubernetes resource Manifests.

Supported Tools

Argo CD supports several Kubernetes manifest definition approaches:

  • Kustomize Applications Kustomize
  • Helm Charts Helm
  • Directory: Manifests containing YAML/JSON/Jsonnet files, including Jsonnet Directory
  • Custom Configuration Management Plugins: Any custom tool configured as a Config Management Plugin

Development Workflow

Argo CD allows direct upload of local manifests, but this is intended for development purposes only. Overriding requires users with permissions (typically administrators) to upload local manifests. It supports all aforementioned Kubernetes deployment tools. To upload a local application:

$ argocd app sync APPNAME --local /path/to/dir/

Feature Comparison

FeatureHelmKustomizeDirectory (Pure YAML)
Configuration MethodTemplating (dynamic generation)Declarative (patches and overlays)Static YAML files
ReusabilityHigh (via Charts)Medium (via base/overlay)Low
Multi-Environment SupportHigh (via values.yaml)High (via overlays)Low
Progressive DeliveryHigh (complex logic support)Medium (simple patch support)Low
Learning CurveHigh (template syntax)Low (YAML-based)Low
Argo CD IntegrationSupportedNative SupportSupported
Use CasesComplex apps, multi-environment, distributionMulti-environment, config reuseSmall projects, rapid prototyping

References

For more detailed information, please refer to: Tool