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GitHub vs Forgejo
GitHub vs Forgejo
A side-by-side look at GitHub (the paid SaaS) and Forgejo (the open source alternative). Use this page to decide if the switch fits your team and workflow.
| GitHub | Forgejo | |
|---|---|---|
| Tagline | Code hosting with Actions, Copilot and Issues. | Community-driven Gitea fork prioritising open source. |
| License | Proprietary SaaS | MIT |
| Pricing | Free for public repos; Team from $4/user/month. | Free to self-host · optional paid hosted plan |
| Self-host option | No | Yes — difficulty 2/5 |
| Hosted cloud available | Yes (only option) | Yes |
| Desktop apps | Varies by product | Web only |
| Mobile apps | Official apps typically available | None official |
Ad slot — between tables
Best for
Community-governed fork of Gitea — fully open and non-profit.
Forgejo strengths
- 100% community governance (Codeberg-backed).
- Compatible with Gitea data and actions.
- Regular security releases.
Forgejo weaknesses
- Newer fork — ecosystem still consolidating.
- Third-party marketplace is smaller.
- Feature parity with Gitea varies by release.
What's the catch with GitHub?
- Microsoft acquisition; privacy/AI-training concerns.
- Private repo features can require paid tier.
- Centralization of open-source ecosystem.
Still unsure?
Check the full list of alternatives to GitHub: see GitHub alternatives, or learn more about Forgejo on its project page.