Git is a version control system (VCS) that makes it possible to follow a project’s evolution across time. Developers had to utilise the Command Line Interface (CLI) to handle Git at the time of its inception in 2005. However, for many developers, understanding and using the command line may be a very challenging undertaking, and in some situations, it can be a substantial barrier to entry for those wishing to take advantage of Git’s potential.
Now let’s talk about the graphical user interface (GUI), also referred to as the Git client. With just a few mouse clicks or keyboard shortcuts, developers may visualise their Git repository using the Git GUI tool.
Both beginner and experienced developers frequently use GUIs in their daily work. You’ll undoubtedly observe that some people have extremely strong ideas about utilising GUI vs CLI as you learn more about Git and engage in related communities. Both tools have many advantages, but it’s crucial to keep in mind that you should pick ones that enable you to produce code you’re happy of. The GIT GUI is used by millions of developers to improve their work and make their life easier.
In this post, I will recommend some of the best Git GUI clients for Linux, Mac and Windows operating systems.
1. Fork
Fork is a user-friendly, quick, and intuitive Git GUI. It provides a commit list, working directory modifications, a view of side-by-side differences, and a summary view of the repository manager.
Additionally, it has integrated GitHub notifications that make it simple to keep track of any changes. Additionally, users can use the merge-conflict helper and merge-conflict resolver for a speedy resolution.
Users can expand and collapse merging commits in the commit-graph file using the collapsible Git graph that is included with Fork.
You try it out for free, you can download the software. After that, you’ll can pay a one-time fee of $49.99 for either Windows or Mac systems.
2. GitKraken
In addition to being dependable, effective, visually appealing, and simple to use, GitKraken also makes Git operations pleasant. Its drag-and-drop functionality and user-friendly design enable users to do simple tasks fast. Furthermore, errors are simple to correct with a single click.
You can start a new project and edit files directly in GitKraken using the tool’s built-in code editor. In addition, you can track tasks, arrange them in a calendar view, and mention team members to let them know when there are updates because it can sync with GitHub in real-time. Additionally, GitKraken provides Jira integration with Git.
For non-commercial use, the software is available for free. For individuals that require a more advanced solution, there are the GitKraken Client and GitLens plans. The starting price per user per month is $4.95.
3. Gitg
Gitg’s user interface is simple to operate. Existing Git repositories saved on your computer can be opened and viewed. Gitg also offers a number of tools for managing repositories and committing work. The program is available for free download and can be used on 64-bit Linux or Windows platforms.
You can carry out standard Git activities, explore commits, and preview files with Gitg. The commit view additionally displays commit messages, untracked commits, and unstaged commits.
4. Sourcetree
Available for both Windows and Mac, Sourcetree is a free Git GUI interface. This tool is easy to use yet effective, making it ideal for both novice and experienced users. Navigation is also made simple by the interface’s simplicity and elegance.
You can effectively maintain Git projects with this feature-rich GUI. It enables you and your team members to easily monitor the advancement of various projects because it supports large Git files and displays them with thorough branching diagrams.
Finding file modifications, commits, and branches is possible with the local commit search feature. Within Sourcetree, the remote repo manager enables you to browse and clone remote repositories. With the interactive rebase tool, you can also get precise and orderly commits.
5. GitHub Desktop
This tool is especially helpful if your remote repository is hosted on GitHub. The app is essentially an expansion of your GitHub process. Simply connect in with your GitHub account and begin working on your repositories.
A free and open-source Git GUI client is GitHub Desktop. You may manage code using its user-friendly interface without having to input instructions. Additionally, adding or creating new local repositories is simple, as are Git procedures.
It’s not difficult to create branches or switch between already existing ones, and merging code with the master branch is likewise not too difficult.
6. SmartGit
This robust Git GUI client features a simple user interface that is consistent in appearance and functionality across all platforms. The Log window features a single-view functionality that allows you to simultaneously display your working tree, commands, and index.
You can use the tool to compare, merge, and edit files side by side while using the Conflict Solver to handle merge problems. Additionally, SmartGit offers an SSH client, enhanced rebase performance, and Git-Flow, which enables branch configuration without the use of extra tools.
Additionally, it incorporates with well-known Git platforms like GitHub and BitBucket to facilitate group pull requests and code reviews.
Downloading the app is free. A SmartGit license for business use costs approximately $109 per year, or you may pay $299 once to get a lifetime license with one year of support. As an alternative, you can sign up for a subscription rate of $5.90 per month.
7. TortoiseGit
A Windows shell interface for Git is provided by this open-source, free software. It can be created to your specifications and utilized in a business setting. TortoiseGit is also compatible with all file types and other development tools.
Regular tasks like committing, making branches and tags, and displaying logs are supported. The app is simple to use, and Windows Explorer provides direct access to its functions. You may drag files to relocate them, and the dialog boxes are descriptive.
Some tools, like TortoiseGitMerge, can help you see the changes made to your files and resolve issues. It contains an auto-complete feature for keywords and paths as well as a spell checking for messages. Additionally, it comes in over 30 different languages.
8. GitFinder
GitFinder is a quick and simple Git client for Mac that integrates with the Finder. The tool includes extensive features for the majority of Git operations and is tailored for software engineers.
Users may swiftly do a variety of tasks thanks to Finder integration, which also displays the faults or differences of files selected in Finder in a separate window.
Other capabilities include the ability to execute each action using a keyboard shortcut, merging conflicts, a file history, and a rich repository browser.
GitFinder is available for a free 30-day trial. After that, each machine will have a lifetime price of about $30.
9. GitFiend
A multi-platform Git client that is easy to use and quick to download, GitFiend is also available for free. The app promises to give users an easy-to-use interface for managing Git files.
You may rapidly refresh, retrieve, push, pull, stage, and commit any changes with GitFiend. Additionally, it provides functions like stashing, branching, tagging, and filtering, and even displays a file’s history.
Users can also totally rollback commits that have not yet been pushed. Given that GitFiend is still under development, there are many other features on the roadmap that you may find on their official website.
10. Gittyup
Gittyup is a free GUI Git client designed to make managing source code history and understanding it simpler for users. Single branch, fullscreen, tab management, diff, tree, and blame view are some of its features.
Additionally, you can configure single-line staging and change a commit’s settings. Additional functions include resolving rebase conflicts, tagging, staring commits, and writing commit messages.
Keep in mind that Gittyup is still in development, so a lot more features are likely to be added.
