From RVM to rbenv

I recently switched from RVM (Ruby Version Manager) to rbenv for Ruby version and gem management. This isn't so much of a 'howto', as a dump of my bash history for anyone looking to make a similar transition. Why I Left RVM RVM had several issues that frustrated me: - Complicated gem and Ruby version management - The system felt overly complex - Unclear storage locations - I never knew where gems and Ruby versions were actually stored - Confusing gemset commands - The gemset system was hard to understand and manage Why rbenv is Better rbenv offers several advantages: - Simpler to understand - The system is more transparent - Works well with Bundler - Better integration with modern Ruby workflows - Easier project-specific Ruby version management - files just work The Migration Process Here's the process I followed to switch: 1. Completely remove RVM - Clean out all RVM-related files and configurations 2. Clean out old Ruby and gem installations - Start fresh 3. Install rbenv via Homebrew - Use the package manager for easy installation 4. Install desired Ruby versions - Install 1.9.3 and 2.1.4 (the versions I needed) 5. Set up default gems - Install commonly used gems 6. Install rbenv plugins - Add rbenv-bundler for better Bundler integration The Result The goal was to create "a decent local ruby environment that I actually understand." rbenv delivers on this promise by being: - Transparent - I can see exactly what's happening - Simple - No complex gemset management - Reliable - Works consistently across projects Key Commands The most important rbenv commands I use daily: The switch from RVM to rbenv was one of the best development environment decisions I've made. If you're frustrated with RVM's complexity, rbenv is definitely worth considering.