Delta vs GitHub Desktop: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Delta and GitHub Desktop comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 22, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Delta
Enhance your Git, diff, grep, and blame output with syntax highlighting and advanced features.
Best for you if:
- • Syntax-highlights Git, diff, grep, and blame output.
- • Highly customizable with themes, layouts, and styling.
GitHub Desktop
Simple Git GUI for GitHub repositories
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • GitHub Desktop is a visual Git client that simplifies GitHub workflows
- • It provides an intuitive interface for commits, branches, and pull requests without CLI
| At a Glance |  Delta |  GitHub Desktop |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Version Control | Version Control |
Rating | —/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | Delta | GitHub Desktop |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | — | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Version ControlTerminal Tools | Version Control |
How Delta and GitHub Desktop Compare
Delta
Enhance your Git, diff, grep, and blame output with syntax highlighting and advanced features.
Free
GitHub Desktop
Simple Git GUI for GitHub repositories
Free · 82/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Delta
Want the highest-rated option?
GitHub Desktop scores 82/100. Delta is unrated.
Go with: GitHub Desktop
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: GitHub Desktop
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are free. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are version control tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
GitHub Desktop
- Higher score: 82/100 vs unrated
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Delta
The Bottom Line
GitHub Desktop (82/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Delta or GitHub Desktop better?
GitHub Desktop scores 82/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Delta and GitHub Desktop used for?
Delta: Enhance your Git, diff, grep, and blame output with syntax highlighting and advanced features.. GitHub Desktop: Simple Git GUI for GitHub repositories.
What does Delta cost vs GitHub Desktop?
Delta is completely free. GitHub Desktop is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.