3 tools compared
Best GitHub Desktop Alternatives in 2026
GitHub Desktop (GitHub Desktop is a seamless way to contribute to projects on GitHub and GitHub Enterprise) isn't the right fit for everyone. Below are 3 real alternatives pulled straight from our GitHub Desktop profile.
| # | Tool | Pricing | Platforms |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | GitHub | Open source | |
| 2 | SourceTree | — | |
| 3 | GitKraken | — |
1. GitHub
GitHub is built for developers who need a cloud-based platform to store code repositories, track issues, and manage version control using Git. It suits teams collaborating concurrently on software development through pull requests and code reviews, backed by a massive community of open-source contributors and project documentation tools like wikis and GitHub Pages.
Full GitHub profile →2. SourceTree
SourceTree is a cross-platform client for Git and Mercurial version control, available for both Windows and macOS. It is a strong fit for individual developers and small teams looking for a free tool that replaces command-line operations with an intuitive graphical user interface. Key capabilities include visualizing repository history, managing branches, merging, stashing, and rebasing, along with direct integration with GitHub and Bitbucket.
Full SourceTree profile →3. GitKraken
GitKraken is a cross-platform Git client designed for users needing code collaboration tools on Windows, macOS, and Linux, along with web support. It stands out with a user-friendly, visually appealing interface and robust Git integration that supports various commands and workflows. Key capabilities include built-in merge conflict resolution and integrations with popular issue trackers such as Jira, GitHub Issues, and GitLab Issues.
Full GitKraken profile →