What is GitHub Desktop?
GitHub Desktop is an open-source desktop application for working with Git repositories through a graphical interface. It helps review changes and collaborate on GitHub projects; hosted repository plans and service usage remain separate.
Who is GitHub Desktop for?
Developers and other repository contributors who want a visual local Git workflow on a supported desktop operating system.
Separate local repository work from hosted services
GitHub Desktop provides a graphical environment for repository work. The official project publishes its source and supported installers.
Compare Sourcetree for another Git client. Review GitHub separately for hosted repository, review and automation requirements.
GitHub Desktop features
The core capabilities to consider for your workflow.
- Graphical review of file changes and commits
- Branch and repository workflows
- GitHub-connected desktop collaboration
GitHub Desktop pricing
Free open-source desktop app
Assess the application separately from GitHub account plans, repository controls and any Actions or storage consumption. Check the official operating-system download and the organisation’s authentication requirements.
Calculate the cost of your quote →Free access & evaluation
GitHub Desktop is a free, open-source application. Any paid GitHub hosting features or service consumption are separate from the desktop download.
Before you choose GitHub Desktop
Official releases support Windows and macOS; Linux builds are community-supported forks.
Repository access and organisation permissions are separate from installing the client.
The free desktop app does not establish additional hosted build, storage or service allowances.
Check a small local change before publication
Use an authorised disposable repository and a fictional text file. Review the diff, select the intended changes and inspect the resulting local commit. Agree who is allowed to publish or merge changes on the remote repository.
Record the app version and account arrangement. Installing a client does not grant access to a private project or change the organisation’s hosting and usage contract.
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GitHub Desktop FAQs
Is GitHub Desktop free?
GitHub Desktop is a free, open-source desktop application. Hosted GitHub plans and separately billed service usage have their own scope.
Does GitHub Desktop support Windows and macOS?
Yes. The official project provides Windows and macOS installers, including a macOS Apple silicon download. Check the current system requirements.
Is GitHub Desktop officially supported on Linux?
The official repository says Linux is not officially supported. It points to community-supported forks rather than an official Linux release.
Does GitHub Desktop include extra GitHub Actions minutes?
Do not infer extra hosted allowances from the free app. The desktop client and GitHub service consumption are separate parts of the workflow.
What is GitHub Desktop used for?
It provides a graphical Git workflow for reviewing changes, working with branches and commits, and collaborating on projects hosted on GitHub.