GitKraken vs GitLab
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
The verdict
Both GitKraken and GitLab are credible version control tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
GitKraken — Cross-platform Git GUI client.
GitLab — The complete DevSecOps platform.
GitKraken vs GitLab: side by side
| Dimension | GitKraken | GitLab |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Free – $9.99/user/mo | Free – $29/user/mo |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Pricing model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Best for | Developers, Teams | Enterprise, Devops Teams |
| Platforms | Windows, Mac, Linux | Web, Api, Self Hosted |
| Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 |
GitKraken key facts
- Vendor
- GitKraken
- Pricing
- Freemium — Free – $9.99/user/mo
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Windows, Mac, Linux
- Best for
- Developers, Teams
- Editor rating
- 4.5 / 5
- Founded
- 2014
- Headquarters
- Scottsdale, USA
GitLab key facts
- Vendor
- GitLab Inc.
- Pricing
- Freemium — Free – $29/user/mo
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web, Api, Self Hosted
- Best for
- Enterprise, Devops Teams
- Editor rating
- 4.5 / 5
- Founded
- 2011
- Headquarters
- Remote
Frequently asked questions
Is GitKraken better than GitLab?
Neither is universally better — GitKraken edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is GitKraken or GitLab cheaper?
GitKraken is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free – $9.99/user/mo. GitKraken starts at free – $9.99/user/mo; GitLab starts at free – $29/user/mo.
Can GitKraken replace GitLab?
Yes for most teams — both are version control tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.