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GitHub vs Gitea
GitHub vs Gitea
A side-by-side look at GitHub (the paid SaaS) and Gitea (the open source alternative). Use this page to decide if the switch fits your team and workflow.
| GitHub | Gitea | |
|---|---|---|
| Tagline | Code hosting with Actions, Copilot and Issues. | Lightweight self-hosted Git service. |
| 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
Fast, lightweight GitHub clone for small teams and self-host.
Gitea strengths
- Single Go binary — minimal install.
- Familiar GitHub-style UI.
- Actions (CI/CD) and packages built in.
Gitea weaknesses
- Governance tensions led to the Forgejo fork.
- Some enterprise features are paid.
- Smaller marketplace than GitLab/GitHub.
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 Gitea on its project page.