Sphinx vs Read the Docs: Which is Better for Documentation?

What are the main differences between Sphinx and Read the Docs?

Sphinx is a documentation generator, while Read the Docs is a hosting platform for Sphinx-generated docs. Sphinx focuses on creating documentation, whereas Read the Docs provides a way to host and manage that documentation online.

Can I use Sphinx without Read the Docs?

Yes, you can use Sphinx independently to generate documentation in various formats like HTML or PDF, and host it anywhere you prefer.

What are the advantages of using Read the Docs with Sphinx?

Using Read the Docs with Sphinx simplifies the hosting process, automates builds, and provides versioning for your documentation, making it easier to manage updates.

Are there any alternatives to Sphinx and Read the Docs?

Yes, alternatives include MkDocs for documentation generation and GitBook for hosting, both of which offer different features and workflows.