Fork vs GitHub Desktop: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Fork 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 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Fork
Fast and friendly Git client for Mac and Windows
Best for you if:
- • You need ide & code editors features specifically
- • Fork is a fast and friendly Git client for Mac and Windows
- • It provides visual diff, merge conflict resolution, and interactive rebase in a native app
GitHub Desktop
Simple Git GUI for GitHub repositories
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • You need version control features specifically
- • 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 |  Fork |  GitHub Desktop |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free |
Best For | IDE & Code Editors | Version Control |
Rating | 80/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | Fork | GitHub Desktop |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Free |
| Editorial Score | 80 | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | IDE & Code EditorsVersion Control | Version Control |
How Fork and GitHub Desktop Compare
Fork
Fast and friendly Git client for Mac and Windows
Paid · 80/100 score
GitHub Desktop
Simple Git GUI for GitHub repositories
Free · 82/100 score
Fork is a ide & code editors tool. GitHub Desktop is in version control.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
GitHub Desktop is free. Fork is paid.
Go with: GitHub Desktop
Want the highest-rated option?
Fork: 80/100. GitHub Desktop: 82/100.
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?
Fork is paid. GitHub Desktop is free. Go with GitHub Desktop if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Fork is a ide & code editors tool. GitHub Desktop is in version control. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
GitHub Desktop scores higher: 82/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
GitHub Desktop
- Higher score: 82/100 vs 80
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Fork
- Better fit for ide & code editors
The Bottom Line
GitHub Desktop (82/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fork or GitHub Desktop better?
GitHub Desktop scores 82/100 in our evaluation. Fork is paid and GitHub Desktop is free.
What are Fork and GitHub Desktop used for?
Fork: Fast and friendly Git client for Mac and Windows. GitHub Desktop: Simple Git GUI for GitHub repositories.
What does Fork cost vs GitHub Desktop?
Fork is a paid tool. GitHub Desktop is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.