wat vs debugpy
Python runtime inspection and debugging compared
wat inspects Python objects interactively, while debugpy connects Python programs to compatible Debug Adapter Protocol clients. The main difference is scope: wat helps explore values and code in the current interpreter, whereas debugpy enables client-driven debugging, including launching or attaching to processes.
wat: Inspect Python Objects at Runtime
wat is a Python object inspector for exploring unfamiliar values, functions, classes, and modules while your code runs. It uses Python runtime introspection and has no external package dependencies, making it handy in a console or debugger.
debugpy: Debug Python Programs with DAP Clients
debugpy connects Python 3 programs to debuggers that speak the Debug Adapter Protocol. Use it to launch or attach to a process, pause execution, and inspect code through a compatible debugging client.
| wat | debugpy | |
|---|---|---|
| Language | Python | Python |
| License | MIT | — |
| Stars | 1.9k | 2.5k |
| Forks | 32 | 208 |
| Last analyzed | Oct 23, 2026 | Oct 12, 2026 |
Key differences
- wat presents object details such as types, values, attributes, signatures, documentation, and available source; debugpy lets a DAP client control and inspect program execution.
- wat is aimed at interactive exploration in a REPL or debugger; debugpy is a debugging component used with a compatible client, not a standalone graphical debugger.
- wat supports Python 3.8 and later and lists no external package dependencies; debugpy supports Python 3 programs.
- wat lists an MIT license; debugpy's metadata reports NOASSERTION, while its README displays an MIT license badge and links to a license file, so verify the applicable terms.
- wat is marked quiet, with no commits in the last 90 days or release in over a year, and contributions concentrated in one person; debugpy has regular commits and releases, with contributions spread across many contributors.
- debugpy can listen for remote clients, but its documentation warns that anyone who connects can execute arbitrary code in the debugged process; restrict remote access to secure networks.
Choose wat if you…
- need to inspect unfamiliar Python objects, values, signatures, or documentation interactively.
- want to explore modules, nested collections, or local and global variables from a REPL or debugger.
- prefer an inspector with no external package dependencies and support for Python 3.8 or later.
Choose debugpy if you…
- need to launch a Python program under a debugger or attach to a running process.
- use an editor or debugger client that speaks the Debug Adapter Protocol.
- want to pause execution at breakpoints or investigate a caught exception through a connected client.
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This comparison is generated with AI from the OSRepos analyses of both projects. Always check each project's repository and documentation before choosing.