Best local development environments
Desktop apps that install and run web servers, databases and language runtimes on your own computer for development.
2 apps, ordered by visits from AppBreakup and how often our research lists each one as an alternative. Open any app to see its alternatives.
All local development environments
- Alternatives to Laravel Herd
Native PHP and Laravel development environment for macOS and Windows, with a free tier and paid Pro.
Free plan + paidmacOS, Windows - Alternatives to DDEV
Open-source, Docker-based tool that spins up local PHP and Node.js development environments.
Open sourcemacOS, Windows, Linux
Our picks by need
Best for most people
Laravel HerdBest for a free option
DDEVBest for open source
DDEVBest for Mac
Laravel HerdBest for Windows
Laravel HerdBest for Linux
DDEVCommon questions
What are the best local development environments?
Based on how often our research lists them as alternatives and visits from AppBreakup, the leading local development environments right now are Laravel Herd and DDEV.
Are there free local development environments?
Yes. Laravel Herd (free plan + paid) and DDEV (open source) have a free option, out of 2 free or freemium apps we track.
Which local development environments are open source?
DDEV.