GitKrakenLinux
vs
GitWindows
GitKraken as a Linux alternative to Git
Updated
Our verdict
GitKraken is a solid graphical front‑end that covers most day‑to‑day Git tasks and adds a visual history, merge editor, and integrated issue tracking. It is a good replacement for users who prefer a GUI and need quick visual feedback, especially on medium‑size projects. Power users who rely on the full breadth of command‑line options, scripting, or very large monorepos may still prefer native Git or a terminal‑based client.
- License
- LicenseRef-proprietary
- Price
- freemium
- Latest version
- 12.6.0 (October 1, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Both provide full Git functionality: clone, pull, push, branch, merge, rebase, submodule handling
- Both support large repositories and LFS
- Both allow viewing commit history and file blame
What is different
- GitKraken is a GUI; native Git is command‑line only
- GitKraken bundles an editor and issue tracker; native Git does not
- GitKraken requires a license for full features; native Git is free
- GitKraken may add overhead and slower startup for huge repos
- GitKraken’s merge editor is integrated, while native Git uses external editors
Opening your Git files
GitKraken opens standard .git repositories without issue. Exporting or sharing commits is done through normal Git commands or by pushing to a remote; the app itself does not alter the repository format.
Switching from Git to GitKraken, step by step
- Install GitKraken from the official website or Flathub
- Create a new profile and point it to an existing local repo or clone a remote
- Verify that all branches and tags appear in the graph
- Use the built‑in editor to test a simple change and push to confirm connectivity
Key features of GitKraken
- Visual Git history with dark/light themes
- Drag‑and‑drop merge, rebase, push
- Built‑in code editor with diff and syntax highlighting
- Glo Boards for issue tracking across services
- Multiple profiles for work and personal projects
- Gitflow, LFS, submodules support
How to install GitKraken on Linux
flatpak install flathub com.axosoft.GitKrakenFrequently asked questions
Does GitKraken replace the Git command line?
It provides a GUI for most Git operations, but advanced scripting and hooks still require the command line.
Is GitKraken free for all features?
The core client is free; some advanced features like Glo Boards or unlimited workspaces require a paid plan.
Can I use GitKraken on very large repos?
It works well up to several hundred MBs; for very large monorepos, the native command line may be faster.
4 other alternatives to Git
gitgGitg is a lightweight graphical interface for Git that visualizes commit history and manages repositories.Open sourceFreeFlatpakgitg vs Git
Git ColaGit Cola is a lightweight, feature‑rich graphical Git client for Linux.Open sourceFreeFlatpakGit Cola vs Git
Sublime MergeSublime Merge is a proprietary Git client with a fast, keyboard‑centric UI.FlatpakSublime Merge vs Git