aurutils

Manage AUR packages in a local pacman repository

SYNOPSIS

aur command [options] [pkgname ...]

PARAMETERS

-h, --help
Show help for command or aurutils

--chroot
Build packages in user chroot (requires aur-chroot)

--database

    PKGBUILD database directory

--mflags
    Custom MAKEFLAGS for makepkg

--makepkg
    Path to makepkg binary

--needed
    Skip packages already satisfying dependencies

--no-verify
    Skip PGP verification

--print
    Print package names/URLs instead of acting

--print-src
    Print source tarballs

--repo
    Use specified repo instead of aur

-r, --root
    Specify package root directory

--sign
    Sign packages with GPG

--srcdir
    Source directory

DESCRIPTION

aurutils is a collection of fast, safe, and minimal POSIX shell scripts for managing packages from the Arch User Repository (AUR). Unlike feature-heavy helpers like yay or paru, aurutils focuses on core functionality: searching, downloading, building, and installing AUR packages without automatic dependency resolution or merging PKGBUILDs, reducing the risk of malicious or broken packages.

It provides commands like aur search, aur sync, and aur utils for efficient workflows. Users must review PKGBUILDs manually, aligning with Arch's philosophy of user responsibility. Supports options for chroots, custom makeflags, and repositories. Ideal for advanced users seeking control and speed, often outperforming makepkg in bulk operations via parallel builds and deduplication.

CAVEATS

No automatic dependency resolution; manual PKGBUILD review required.
Requires git and curl; chroot needs setup.
Not for beginners due to minimal hand-holding.

SUBCOMMANDS

search: Search AUR.
fetch: Download PKGBUILDs.
clone: Git clone repos.
sync: Build/install packages.
utils: Dependency/build utilities.
repo: Manage local repos.

INSTALLATION

Install from AUR as aurutils package, or clone git repo and source profile.

HISTORY

Developed by Alad Wenter starting 2016 as a safe AUR alternative to yaourt. Hosted on GitHub (AladW/aurutils). Actively maintained with focus on POSIX compliance and performance. Gained popularity post-AUR helpers controversies for its transparency and auditability.