This content originally appeared on DEV Community and was authored by SOVANNARO
In this course, we looked at three popular ways to create Docker images for microservices:
- Dockerfile
- Buildpacks
- Jib
Now you might wonder:
Which one is the best?
The truth is — there is no one “best” method. Each has its own pros and cons, and your choice depends on your specific needs.
1. Dockerfile
Pros:
- Gives maximum control and flexibility.
- You can customize it to fit almost any requirement.
Cons:
- You need to write and maintain it yourself.
- You must know best practices for performance and security.
- Each microservice needs its own Dockerfile.
2. Buildpacks
Pros:
- Easiest to use — no need to write Dockerfiles.
- Supports multiple languages (Java, Python, Node.js, etc.).
- Great for multi-language microservices projects.
- Offers features like caching, modular builds, and security metadata.
Cons:
- Slower and uses more memory, especially on local machines.
- Has some performance issues on macOS.
3. Jib (from Google)
Pros:
- Designed specifically for Java projects.
- Very fast and lightweight — saves memory and disk space.
- Works smoothly across Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Cons:
- Only supports Java.
- Less flexible compared to Dockerfile for complex setups.
So… What Are We Using in This Course?
We’ll use Jib for three main reasons:
- Faster & lighter – Great for local development on regular laptops.
- Our microservices are Java-only, so Jib is a perfect fit.
- Fewer issues on macOS – Buildpacks can be slow or buggy on Macs.
Final Advice
- For real-world production, especially with multi-language services, use Buildpacks — they are more powerful and flexible.
- If you’re working with Java-only and want a quick, easy setup, Jib is a great choice.
- If you need full control and have special requirements, use a Dockerfile.
There’s no “bad” option — just choose what fits your project and team best.
This content originally appeared on DEV Community and was authored by SOVANNARO