Install a module using pip for specific python version

python

pip

python-versions

virtual-environments

byAnton Shumikhin·Feb 24, 2025

Install a Python package for a specific version of Python using that version's pip directly:

For Python 2:

python2 -m pip install your_module
# Ride the Python 2 train 🚆

For Python 3:

python3 -m pip install your_module
# Let's get a sneak peek at the snake charmer's bag 🐍

For minor Python versions, mention it directly:

# Installing for Python 3.8 as an example.
python3.8 -m pip install your_module
# Python 3.8, because eight is a lucky number! 🎱

Where your_package is the package to install and 3.8 is the specific Python version.

Understanding the -m flag with pip

The -m flag with pip is a golden key to unlocking the specific Python version's pip. Let's unravel a few scenarios to understand its power:

Using `-m` flag

When you have several Python versions cohabiting, your pip might belong to an unforeseen Python version. The -m flag ensures that pip corresponds to the Python interpreter you specify:

python3.7 -m pip install your_module
# Installing your_module like a boss with Python 3.7! 👔

Python and setuptools

Some older distributions may have an outdated setuptools parcel linked with a different Python version. You may need to update setuptools or use easy_install:

python3.7 -m easy_install --upgrade setuptools
# setuptools just got a makeover! 💄

Working with Windows

In the world of Windows, use py -2:

py -2 -m pip install your_module
# Python 2 on Windows, because Windows loves even numbers! 🏢

Post installation – Validation

After installing the package, snugly check its compatibility with your python version. Ignoring this step could make your application vomit traceback errors later!

python3.6 -m pip show your_module
# Show 'em what you got, your_module! 🕵️‍♀️

Virtual environments to the rescue

If you want to quarantine your python packages, embrace virtual environments! They isolate your project space and equip it with version-specific pip and Python:

python3.7 -m venv myenv
source myenv/bin/activate
pip install your_module
# We're on a roll in our clean space suit! 🌝🚀

Navigating Multiple Python Versions

Dealing with multiple versions of Python on the same system can feel like handling a python snake pit. Let's dive into some tips on skilfully doing this:

Identifying the correct pip version

A specific pip version might already be lurking in your system for your selected Python version. Check with:

pip2.7 --version
# Shoutout to pip 2.7 📢

Using pyenv for handling multiple Python versions

The pyenv tool lets you effortlessly switch between multiple versions of Python. Use:

pyenv install 3.7.2
pyenv local 3.7.2
# Just switched Python versions with the elegance of a ballerina! 👯‍♂️

The power of Docker for isolation

Want complete isolation and consistency across systems? Turn to Docker! A Dockerfile is all it takes to containerize your Python environment:

# A Python 3.7 lego brick
FROM python:3.7
# Because even Python needs a house! 🧱🏠

Package installation validation

Packages can like python versions as much as cats like napping. Some might be incompatible with a specific Python version. Always validate after installation:

python3.7 -m your_module --version
# Checking if your_module and Python 3.7 are BFFs 🤞

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