Comparison · Git clients
GitKraken Desktop vs Tower: which is better in 2026?
GitKraken Desktop ranks higher in our list of git clients (#3 against #7, score 88.5 against 82.5).
- 88.5Editorial score82.5
- 3Platforms2
- YesFree to useNo
- NoOpen sourceNo
Which should you choose?
Choose GitKraken Desktop if you want
Visual Git on Linux, Mac and Windows.
A visual client for Linux, Mac and Windows that stays free for local and public repositories. Private repository access needs the paid Pro plan, and team plans are priced per seat.
Choose Tower if you want
Mac and Windows developers and designers.
A polished visual client for Mac and Windows with a 30-day trial and no free plan. Paid plans start at $69 per user a year for individuals, which costs more than the free clients above.
The main differences
- Only GitKraken Desktop runs on Linux.
- GitKraken Desktop can be used for free; Tower requires payment.
Side by side
 GitKraken Desktop |  Tower | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | 88.5 | 82.5 |
| Rank in list | #3 of 10 | #7 of 10 |
| Price | Free plan, paid upgradesFree for local and public repos; Pro, Advanced and Business are paid per seat | Subscription30-day trial, then plans from $69 per user a year; free for students |
| Free to use | Yes | No |
| Open source | No | No |
| Platforms | LinuxmacOSWindowsLinux, macOS, Windows | macOSWindowsmacOS, Windows |
| Made by | Not stated | Not stated |
| Interface | Graphical | Graphical |
| Linux support | Yes | No |
| Best for | Visual Git on Linux, Mac and Windows | Mac and Windows developers and designers |
| Strengths |
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| Limits |
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| Links | Visit site | Visit site |
Questions about GitKraken Desktop vs Tower
- Is GitKraken Desktop better than Tower?
- GitKraken Desktop ranks higher in our list of git clients (#3 against #7, score 88.5 against 82.5). GitKraken Desktop is best for: visual Git on Linux, Mac and Windows. Tower is best for: Mac and Windows developers and designers.
- Which is cheaper, GitKraken Desktop or Tower?
- GitKraken Desktop: Free for local and public repos; Pro, Advanced and Business are paid per seat. Tower: 30-day trial, then plans from $69 per user a year; free for students.
- Do GitKraken Desktop and Tower run on the same platforms?
- GitKraken Desktop supports Linux, macOS, Windows. Tower supports macOS, Windows.
Choosing between the two
Learning Center
1:17How to decide between two good optionsSettle a close call by sorting it by how hard it is to undo, setting a deadline, scoring the criteria as a tie-breaker and writing down why you chose.
1:20How to compare products fairly: what to keep in mindDefine the job, cap the must-haves, compare like with like, count total cost over one period and weigh the criteria. Includes a worked example.
