GitHub alternatives: 6 apps ranked by verified data
Common reasons people leave GitHub: advanced security and AI features cost extra, and self-hosted Enterprise Server is expensive. We ranked 6 alternatives by how directly each one replaces GitHub, then by reviews, real visits and how recently each app's facts were checked against its own website. GitLab currently ranks first.
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Show all 6 alternativesThe best GitHub alternative for…
The highest-ranked app in this list for each need.
Best GitHub alternative for most people
GitLabOne application for code, CI/CD and DevSecOps, with a self-managed open-core edition.
Best GitHub alternative for a free option
CodebergNon-profit, community-run hosting for free and open-source projects.
Best GitHub alternative for a free plan you can upgrade
BitbucketTighter Jira integration for teams already using Atlassian tools.
Best GitHub alternative for open source
ForgejoSelf-host a lightweight forge with Actions-compatible CI and full control.
Best GitHub alternative for self-hosting
GiteaEasy-to-run self-hosted Git service with a GitHub-like interface.
Best GitHub alternative for Mac
GiteaEasy-to-run self-hosted Git service with a GitHub-like interface.
Best GitHub alternative for Windows
GiteaEasy-to-run self-hosted Git service with a GitHub-like interface.
Best GitHub alternative for Linux
ForgejoSelf-host a lightweight forge with Actions-compatible CI and full control.
Best GitHub alternative for working in the browser
Azure DevOpsBoards, Repos and Pipelines for Microsoft-centric enterprises.
GitHub alternatives: common questions
What is the best alternative to GitHub?
GitLab ranks first right now. One application for code, CI/CD and DevSecOps, with a self-managed open-core edition. Bitbucket and Codeberg follow it in our ranking.
Is there a free alternative to GitHub?
Yes. GitLab (free plan + paid), Bitbucket (free plan + paid), Codeberg (free) and Forgejo (open source) have a free option. Check each app's verified facts for current plan limits.
Is there an open-source alternative to GitHub?
Yes: GitLab, Forgejo and Gitea. GitLab, Forgejo and Gitea can also be self-hosted.
Which GitHub alternatives work on Linux?
Forgejo and Gitea run on Linux.
Why do people switch from GitHub?
The complaints we hear most: advanced security and AI features cost extra; self-hosted Enterprise Server is expensive; owned by Microsoft, which some open-source projects avoid.
How is this list ranked?
Every app is scored with the same published formula: how directly it replaces GitHub, reviews (weighted by verification), visits from AppBreakup, how recently its facts were checked against its own website, and reader votes.