Side by side
Sourcetree vs TortoiseGit
Both stand on git clients. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan MacWindows
Sourcetree provides a free desktop interface for common Git and Mercurial repository work, with staging controls and several hosting integrations. Remember that pull-request tasks and repository access changes remain in the hosting service.
Visit Sourcetree Free plan Windows
TortoiseGit adds Explorer-based access to common Git operations and related tools at no charge. Check its Windows and Git prerequisites before installing.
Visit TortoiseGitThe facts
| Sourcetree | TortoiseGit | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Mac, Windows | Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | sourcetreeapp.com | tortoisegit.org |
| On git clients | #3 of 24 | #7 of 24 |
Sourcetree: what it does well
- Free Windows and macOS desktop client.
- Works with both Git and Mercurial.
- Stages or discards changes by file, hunk, or line.
- Connects to Bitbucket, GitHub, GitLab, and VSTS.
What to know first
- Pull-request comments and approvals happen in the hosting service.
- Repository access changes must be handled in the hosting service.
- Older archived versions may no longer be supported.
TortoiseGit: what it does well
- Git commands are available from Explorer context menus
- Includes tools for conflict resolution and patch application
- Supports offline use, Git LFS, and submodules
- Free for commercial use under the GPL
What to know first
- Windows only
- Requires a separate command-line Git installation
- Current FAQ requires Windows 10 version 1607 or newer
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