Which app to choose?

When browsing the app store there are often more than one of the same app. Usually one from the developer, one from BigBear CasaOS and sometimes a 3rd random option.

Immich is the perfect example of this.

Which version of an app should I be installing?

You’ll often see multiple versions of the same app in the CasaOS/ZimaOS App Store because they come from different app sources. They aren’t true duplicates, just different maintainers.

In most cases, the differences come down to:

  • Who maintains the template
  • Which Docker image/tag is used
  • How the app is pre-configured
  • How frequently updates are pushed

Typically:

  • Developer/official version – closest to the upstream project, minimal changes, safest if you want the app exactly as intended.
  • BigBear version – community-maintained, sometimes with extra tweaks or improvements to make deployment easier.
  • Other sources – community or custom stores with varying quality and update frequency.

If you want the most standard and predictable setup, choose the developer/official option when available. If you prefer convenience or community enhancements, the BigBear option is also perfectly fine.

The app card will show the source/maintainer, which is the easiest way to understand which “flavour” you’re installing.

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