Helm vs Kustomize with Real time Examples

In this article, we are going to cover Helm vs Kustomize with Real time Examples.

Kubernetes simplifies container orchestration, but managing deployments at scale requires advanced tools. Helm and Kustomize, two popular options, offer distinct approaches to application deployment. Helm is a package manager for Kubernetes, while Kustomize focuses on declarative configuration management through YAML overlays.

Difference between Helm and Kustomize

Helm

Helm streamlines Kubernetes application deployment by packaging resources into reusable Helm charts. It emphasizes ease of use with templating and parameterization features.

Kustomize

Kustomize takes a configuration-first approach, emphasizing flexibility through YAML overlays without relying on templating. It’s perfect for managing environment-specific variations.

Helm vs Kustomize with Real time Examples

Helm: Deploying NGINX with Custom Replicas

Scenario: Deploy NGINX with three replicas.
Command:

helm install my-nginx stable/nginx --set replicaCount=3

Outcome:

  • Helm deploys NGINX with specified replicas.
  • Parameters are easily adjustable using --set flags.
Kustomize: Environment-Specific Configurations

Scenario: Customize a deployment for a production environment.

1. Base Configuration (base/deployment.yaml):

Helm vs Kustomize with Real time Examples 1
  • Contains the core Kubernetes resources.

2. Overlay Configuration (overlays/prod/kustomization.yaml):

Helm vs Kustomize with Real time Examples 2
  • Links patches to the base configuration.

Patch File (overlays/prod/replicas.yaml):

Helm vs Kustomize with Real time Examples 3
  • Modifies replica count for production.

Outcome:

  • Deployments are tailored for production with minimal redundancy.

Key Differences between Helm vs Kustomize

FeatureHelmKustomize
PhilosophyTemplating and packagingDeclarative overlays
Ease of UseQuick start with community chartsSimple structure, no templating
FlexibilityHigh for templatingHigh for customization
Release TrackingNative supportNot available

Use Cases of Helm and Kustomize

Helm: Pre-built applications, shared environments, or standardized setups.

Kustomize: Advanced customizations, multi-environment deployments.

Advanced Features of Helm and Kustomize

Helm
  1. Helm Hooks: Automate lifecycle events.
  2. Chart Dependencies: Manage nested applications.
  3. Release Rollbacks: Easily revert deployments.
Kustomize
  1. Generators: Create ConfigMaps and Secrets automatically.
  2. Transformers: Modify resources dynamically.
  3. Environment Overlays: Simplify configurations for different environments.

Real-World Use Case Helm and Kustomize

Scenario: Multi-environment CI/CD pipeline.
Approach:

  • Use Helm for base application deployment.
  • Apply Kustomize for dev, staging, and production-specific customizations.

Benefits: Centralized Helm charts with environment-specific overlays enhance flexibility and maintainability.

Performance Comparison between Helm vs Kustomize

Helm excels in templating and release tracking, but debugging complex templates can be challenging. Kustomize prioritizes simplicity and customization but lacks pre-built resources and native release management.

Challenges between Helm vs Kustomize

Helm
  • Templating complexity for large applications.
  • Debugging nested templates can be time-consuming.
  • Managing state across environments requires effort.
Kustomize
  • Fewer pre-built resources than Helm.
  • Manual effort for overlay creation.
  • No built-in release tracking.

Hybrid Approach Benefits between Helm vs Kustomize

Combining Helm and Kustomize leverages the best of both tools:

  • Helm: Access community charts.
  • Kustomize: Customize configurations for specific environments.

Key Considerations between Helm vs Kustomize

  • Helm: Ideal for pre-built applications and reusable packages.
  • Kustomize: Best for multi-environment setups and custom configurations.
  • Combination: Recommended for complex workflows.

Final Comparison Table between Helm vs Kustomize

FeatureHelmKustomizeHybrid Approach
PackagingStrongLimitedCombined benefits
CustomizationModerateStrongHighly flexible
Ease of UseBeginner-friendlyDeveloper-orientedBalanced

Conclusion:

Helm simplifies application packaging and deployment, while Kustomize excels in configuration customization. Depending on your project needs, you can choose either or combine both for robust and scalable Kubernetes workflows.

Related Articles:

Kubernetes Customization with Kustomize Components

Reference:

kustomize official page

Harish Reddy

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