Tower Git vs GitHub Desktop: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Tower Git 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:
Tower Git
Simplify Git with a powerful, visual client for Mac and Windows.
Best for you if:
- • Simplifies complex Git operations with a visual interface.
- • Offers powerful undo functionality for Git actions.
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 |  Tower Git |  GitHub Desktop |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free |
Best For | Version Control | Version Control |
Rating | —/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | Tower Git | 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 Control | Version Control |
How Tower Git and GitHub Desktop Compare
Tower Git
Simplify Git with a powerful, visual client for Mac and Windows.
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. Tower Git is freemium.
Go with: GitHub Desktop
Want the highest-rated option?
GitHub Desktop scores 82/100. Tower Git 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?
Tower Git 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
Tower Git
The Bottom Line
GitHub Desktop (82/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tower Git or GitHub Desktop better?
GitHub Desktop scores 82/100 in our evaluation. Tower Git is freemium and GitHub Desktop is free.
What are Tower Git and GitHub Desktop used for?
Tower Git: Simplify Git with a powerful, visual client for Mac and Windows.. GitHub Desktop: Simple Git GUI for GitHub repositories.
What does Tower Git cost vs GitHub Desktop?
Tower Git is freemium (free tier + paid plans). GitHub Desktop is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.