When comparing InnoSetup vs NSIS (Nullsoft Scriptable Install System), the Slant community recommends InnoSetup for most people. In the question“What are the best software packaging tools for Windows?” InnoSetup is ranked 1st while NSIS (Nullsoft Scriptable Install System) is ranked 11th. The most important reason people chose InnoSetup is:
Can easily script own functions to run at various stages of the install / uninstall process.
Specs
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Pros
Pro Easy to extend, add custom behavior
Can easily script own functions to run at various stages of the install / uninstall process.
Pro Well supported
Frequent updates to keep up with the latest OS features, fix bugs. Also has attracted a good deal of 3rd party support (extensions, environments etc). Good community resources for tackling problems.
Pro Well written documentation
Well indexed and accurate Help file included with the scripting environment.
Pro 32 bit / 64 bit support
Covers both 32bit and 64bit software
Pro Does not use Windows Installer MSI files
Uses a dependable, proven non-MSI approach to installation and uninstallation.
Pro Free, Open Source
Pro Widely used
Pro Small header
The header added for the install routines is very small in size.
Cons
Con Pascal scripting
For programmers used to C and C#, the Pascal scripting syntax is something that takes a while to get used to.