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Apache Maven Daemon vs Gradle: catalog facts
Apache Maven Daemon	Gradle
Best for: Java developers who run Maven builds frequently	Best for: Java, Kotlin and Android developers who need a scriptable build system
Free Free and open source under the Apache 2.0 licence.	Free The build tool is free and open source; an optional paid Security Subscription adds extended security maintenance.
Windows, macOS, Linux, Command line	Windows, macOS, Linux, Command line
Faster repeated Maven builds Official Apache project under active development All 3 strengths for Apache Maven Daemon Faster repeated Maven builds Official Apache project under active development Installs through SDKMAN!, Homebrew or Scoop	Build scripts in Kotlin or Groovy DSLs Build caching and parallel execution for faster incremental builds All 4 strengths for Gradle Build scripts in Kotlin or Groovy DSLs Build caching and parallel execution for faster incremental builds Large plugin ecosystem Migration guides from Maven and Ant
Only helps projects that build with Maven A background daemon uses memory between builds	Build logic can become complex on large projects Extended security maintenance beyond end of life requires a paid subscription
Downloadable app	Downloadable app
Open source	Open source
License: Apache-2.0	License: Apache-2.0
No account needed	No account needed
Not stated if it works offline	Not stated if it works offline
Official website Full listing and sources Sources for Apache Maven Daemon github.com/apache/maven-mvnd Catalog checked October 2, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Sources for Gradle gradle.org Catalog checked September 23, 2026

“Not stated” means we have not confirmed it. Features can vary by device and plan.