PyCharm virtual environment setup on Windows — venv & virtualenv guide

Virtual environment options in PyCharm

venv

Built into Python 3. Lightweight, no extra install. Best for pure Python projects.

virtualenv

Third-party, more features than venv. Supports older Python versions.

Conda

From Anaconda. Handles non-Python dependencies. Best for data science.

pipenv

Combines pip and virtualenv. Good for web projects.

Create a virtual environment in PyCharm on Windows

• 1

  New Project method (easiest)

  File → New Project. In the interpreter section, select "New environment using Virtualenv". Choose the base Python version. Click Create.

• 2

  Existing project method

  File → Settings → Project → Python Interpreter → gear icon → Add Interpreter → Virtualenv Environment → New environment.

• 3

  Or create from terminal

  PyCharm Terminal (Alt+F12)

  # Create venv in project folder:

  PS> python -m venv .venv

  # Activate:

  PS> .venv\Scripts\activate

  # Install packages:

  (.venv) PS> pip install requests pandas

venv questions