Since it first appeared in 2008, Github has won the sympathies of many developers, becoming their best friend and allowing them to collaborate and host project files on the cloud. However, with the fast-paced development of different programming languages, it became evident that one platform simply could not handle it all.
This is where developers started looking for alternative solutions, and some created services with similar functionalities to the original GitHub. The difference is that some of them are much more user-friendly, some are more optimized, and some even come with a price tag.
A decade and a half after launching the most popular code hosting platform, it is difficult to choose a reliable alternative. We decided to bring you a list of the top five best Github alternatives for 2023.
Bitbucket
It comes with a similar name and is also free. Bitbucket became a big competitor of Github. It allows users to host unlimited files and easily integrates with some of their favorite team and project management platforms like Jira and Trello.
If you are leaning towards agile methodology, this code hosting platform will support you in such an intention. Your workflow can be secured, and software can be built with code review. Besides building, you can also test and deploy using the integrated CI/CD method for automation.
AWS CodeCommit
Like all big tech companies, Amazon decided to enrich what they offer to the end users, in this case, developers. AWS CodeCommit is part of Amazon Web Services and allows developers easy access and integration. It is particularly popular for developers who are developing applications that are supported by other AWS products.
Two ways to transfer files on AWS CodeCommit are HTTPS and SSH guarantee safety, which is an essential aspect of software development. As with many other AWS services, this comes free if you use it with a small team. You will have to select one of the subscription-based offers for more significant projects.
GitLab
Another excellent and open-source alternative is GitLab. Even though everything comes without monetary cost, you will have support available directly from their team. This is something that one doesn’t see every day in the world of digital tools and platforms!
If you are starting and wondering what would be the first choice for a code hosting platform, you should look closely at GitLab. Users report reliability and speed as the most crucial aspect of GitLab, which is also supported by 99.7% uptime.
Launchpad
Next on the list is Launchpad, a product of a UK-based company in which the creators of Linux work. This free and open-source platform doesn’t offer cloud storage but compromises excellent developing and maintaining features.
Since it offers interaction in multiple languages with developers worldwide, it is great for community enthusiasts who love to give and receive help. We already mentioned Linux, and interestingly enough, Launchpad has more relationships with it! It comes with Ubuntu packages and an open-stack dashboard.
Beanstalk
In the world of cloud tools, it is not surprising that there is a code-sharing platform that offers in-browser code editing. Beanstalk allows you to upload your files, and after creating branches, you can do the work from your favorite browsers.
This can be a great solution if you are on the go. It’s also reasonably reliable if you like to use multiple environments while keeping the consistency of the work you deliver.
Final Thoughts
This article covered our favorite solutions for situations when Github simply doesn’t do it for you.
Most of the alternatives out there are free and open-source. You will have to dedicate a portion of the budget to support bigger teams and more serious work and collaboration.
