Member Avatar for Elfshadow

Between NASM and FASM which one would you pick?
And I pretty new to ASM but I think the Intel style looks better so I think that rules GNU out unless they have a Intel version syntax.

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A short, practical addendum to the thread: the right assembler depends less on "which is better" and more on what you need it to do. mentioned a preference for Intel syntax; suggested TASM and has already weighed in. Below are compact, objective points and a simple evaluation workflow to make a choice that fits the platform and toolchain you plan to use.

Key selection criteria to compare (apply these to NASM, FASM, TASM, GAS, etc.):

  • Target platform and object format: pick an assembler that directly emits the object/executable format your linker or OS expects (ELF, PE/COFF, flat binary, Mach-O).
  • Toolchain and debugger integration: check how well it works with gcc/ld, MSVC/link, gdb, or your IDE; symbol/debug info support matters for real debugging.
  • Inline asm / compiler interaction: if you plan to mix assembly into C/C++, confirm how the assembler interacts with your compiler (GCC/clang use GAS by default).
  • Macro/metaprogramming and workflow: some assemblers let you build complete executables without a separate linker and provide richer macro systems; others fit into standard link-edit workflows.
  • Maintenance and ecosystem: consider current project activity, platform builds, and third-party tooling you will rely on.

Quick evaluation workflow:

  1. Pick your target (e.g., Linux x86_64 or Windows x64).
  2. Assemble a tiny "exit" or "return" program, link it, run it, and step through it in a debugger to test symbol output and toolchain fit.
  3. Try a small inline-asm integration with your C toolchain and a short macro exercise to check ergonomics.

For reference, official sites: NASM and FASM. TASM is largely legacy and oriented to older DOS/Windows toolchains, so prefer modern assemblers for current 32/64-bit work.

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Member Avatar for Garni

Between NASM and FASM which one would you pick?
And I pretty new to ASM but I think the Intel style looks better so I think that rules GNU out unless they have a Intel version syntax.

From my experience i would suggest u TASM

Member Avatar for Evenbit

Between NASM and FASM which one would you pick?
And I pretty new to ASM but I think the Intel style looks better so I think that rules GNU out unless they have a Intel version syntax.

A good reason to pick NASM would be that you have at your disposal a great deal of resources (books, tutorials, example code, current users) to help you along the way. Of course, FASM was heavily enfluenced by NASM, so much of the material can be converted to something FASM can digest. However, such a task is easier accomplish by seasoned programmers -- thus it isn't recommended for a beginner.

In the end, it just comes down to personal preference.

Nathan.

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