GitHub vs GitLab
GitHub is the world's largest code hosting platform. GitLab is a complete DevOps platform you can self-host. Both use Git — the difference is scope and philosophy.
| Feature | GitHub | GitLab |
|---|---|---|
| Git hosting | ✓ | ✓ |
| CI/CD | ✓ | ✓ |
| Built-in CI/CD (no config) | — | ✓ |
| Self-hosting option | — | ✓ |
| Container registry | ✓ | ✓ |
| Project management | ✓ | ✓ |
| Security scanning | ✓ | ✓ |
| Code review | ✓ | ✓ |
| AI features | ✓ | ✓ |
| Open source community | ✓ | — |
GitHub is where open source lives. If you're building open-source software or want to tap into the largest developer community, GitHub is the only real choice. GitHub Actions, Copilot, and the marketplace make it a powerful platform.
GitLab is the better all-in-one DevOps platform. Built-in CI/CD, container registry, security scanning, and project management — without add-ons or marketplace plugins. And you can self-host the Community Edition for free.
For most teams, GitHub is the default. Choose GitLab if you need self-hosting, want a unified DevOps platform without stitching tools together, or have data sovereignty requirements.
choose GitHub if
- You're building open-source software
- You want the largest developer community and ecosystem
- GitHub Copilot AI is important to your workflow
- You prefer best-in-class Git hosting with Actions for CI/CD
choose GitLab if
- You need to self-host your code platform
- You want built-in CI/CD without configuring GitHub Actions
- You prefer a single platform for the entire DevOps lifecycle
- Data sovereignty or compliance requires self-hosting
frequently asked
What is the difference between GitHub and GitLab?
GitHub is the world's largest code hosting platform. GitLab is a complete DevOps platform you can self-host. Both use Git — the difference is scope and philosophy.
Should I use GitHub or GitLab?
Compare GitHub and GitLab side by side. Features, pricing, and which one fits your team.
When should I choose GitHub over GitLab?
Choose GitHub if You're building open-source software; You want the largest developer community and ecosystem; GitHub Copilot AI is important to your workflow; You prefer best-in-class Git hosting with Actions for CI/CD.
When should I choose GitLab over GitHub?
Choose GitLab if You need to self-host your code platform; You want built-in CI/CD without configuring GitHub Actions; You prefer a single platform for the entire DevOps lifecycle; Data sovereignty or compliance requires self-hosting.
related comparisons
GitHub vs Bitbucket · GitHub vs Gitea · GitHub vs Forgejo · GitHub vs SourceHut · GitHub vs Codeberg · GitHub vs Azure DevOps · GitLab vs Bitbucket · GitLab vs Gitea