GitLive vs GitHub Desktop: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between GitLive 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:
GitLive
Real-time collaboration and insights for your Git repositories within your IDE.
Best for you if:
- • Real-time team activity in your IDE
- • Live view of uncommitted changes
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)
- • You need something completely free
- • 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 |  GitHub Desktop | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free |
Best For | Version Control | Version Control |
Rating | —/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | GitLive | GitHub Desktop |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Free |
| Editorial Score | — | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Version ControlCode Review | Version Control |
How GitLive and GitHub Desktop Compare
GitLive
Real-time collaboration and insights for your Git repositories within your IDE.
Free tier available
GitHub Desktop
Simple Git GUI for GitHub repositories
Free · 82/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
GitHub Desktop is free. GitLive is freemium.
Go with: GitHub Desktop
Want the highest-rated option?
GitHub Desktop scores 82/100. GitLive 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?
GitLive is freemium. GitHub Desktop is free. Go with GitHub Desktop if free matters most.
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
GitLive
The Bottom Line
GitHub Desktop (82/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GitLive or GitHub Desktop better?
GitHub Desktop scores 82/100 in our evaluation. GitLive is freemium and GitHub Desktop is free.
What are GitLive and GitHub Desktop used for?
GitLive: Real-time collaboration and insights for your Git repositories within your IDE.. GitHub Desktop: Simple Git GUI for GitHub repositories.
What does GitLive cost vs GitHub Desktop?
GitLive is freemium (free tier + paid plans). GitHub Desktop is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.