Git is one of the most popular VCS or version control software out there, which has for quite some time been a staple for many in managing source codebases for all kinds of open-source (and closed-source) projects. From its humble beginnings as a source code managing tool for Linux kernel, it has skyrocketed into popularity among open source communities, software developers, DevOps and System Administrators.

But for all its functionality and popularity, Git has quite a bit of negative points that most users get frustrated with. If you are one of them, here we have a list of the best Git alternatives for you to explore.

What is Git?

Created in 2005 by Linus Torvalds, Git is a popular distributed version control system (DVCS) that’s mainly used for tracking code changes in files, coding collaborations and managing projects and repositories, particularly in software development,

Git is used by a wide range of individuals and organizations across various industries, primarily for version control and collaborative software development.

10 Best Git Alternatives

1. Fossil

Fossil was created as a source control solution specifically for the popular embeddable open-source database system, SQLite. One reason why Fossil makes for a great Git alternative is that it is an all-in-one solution with a one-stop solution for anyone looking for VCS software. While git only tracks and helps with annotations across the codebase, Fossil can also integrate ticketing, bug tracking and live discussion of projects. Fossil is a great alternative to Git, especially for smaller teams but still functions well in a decentralized manner. Some of its features include:

Changes are saved in the file system itself.
Changes automatically sync with a main repository.
Detailed graph for tracking projects.
Bug tracking.
Wikis and documentation.

2. Subversion

Subversion or SVN is a project started by the Apache Foundation in 2000. Being released initially in 2004, it is a bit older than Git. The key difference between SVN from Git lies in the fact that it is centralized and the repository is stored in one location. This means that there won’t be any local copies of the codebase, and the users work on branches from that one centralized copy. Here are some points that make Subversion a good Git alternative.

A centralized structure makes it easier to work with.
Administrators are allowed to set access controls on repositories to automatically sort out contributions.
Handles bigger binary files seamlessly.
Versioned directories and symbolic links.
Better Windows support in comparison to Git.

3. CVS

CVS is one of the oldest revision control systems that was first released in 1986 and continues to be hosted by Google Code. It can be installed virtually anywhere and has a beginner-friendly simple learning curve. CVS is a simpler system for anyone looking for software just to ensure that files and revisions are up to date. CVS also has a vast community that provides exceptional support to whoever needs it. Some of its pro points include:

Many IDEs like Xcode, Eclipse, Emacs etc. use CVS.
Simple and easy to learn.
Delta compression is used for storage.
Multiple developers can simultaneously work on the same project.
Handy for backups and file sharing.
Standard and can be installed anywhere.

4. Mercurial

Mercurial is a great Git alternative primarily because as concepts, both Git and Mercurial have a lot of similarities. Though it was not used by the Linux kernel project, for which it was a contender with Git, it has gained a lot of users since then, especially developers working with Mozilla, WC3, Facebook etc. Git and Mercurial even work in similar manners, with similar graphs to track codebase changes. One major difference that makes Mercurial an easier VCS is the smaller and easier set of commands for common use cases. Some of its best features include:

Clone the repository to other directories to work on as a separate branch.
Can easily integrate third-party codes to improve functionality.
A good number of extensions for additional utility.
Good merging and branching capabilities.
Has a web interface to it.
Can sync a Mercurial repository easily with a Git repository.

5. Bazaar

Bazaar is a great version control software that functions based on a client-server and distributed repository model. One good thing about Bazaar is its flexible workflows, ranging from solo, to centralized and decentralized. It has simple commands like other VCSs that we have discussed on this list, like SVN or CVS. For Bazaar you don’t really need to work with a central server. The fine-grained control that is provided is another benefit that adds flexibility when working with any project. Bazaar also provides free hosting via websites like Sourceforge and Launchpad. Bazaar’s strong points include:

Cross-platform OS support.
Great directory tracking, which is absent in Mercurial, Git etc.
Easy and simple plugin system
Fast and efficient storage.

6. Monotone

Monotone is a distributed revision control system that is written in C++. With good local and international support, Monotone has one of the best support systems on this list adding to its status as a viable Git alternative. Monotone has an “integrity over performance” philosophy and for those of you for whom integrity matters, this is a great plus point, even though in the beginning it can be a little time-consuming. Other features include:

Lets you import CVS projects.
Great for distributed projects.
Portable and easy-to-use design.
Efficient custom protocol (Netsync).

7. Microsoft Visual Studio Team Services

Microsoft’s Visual Studio Team Services or VSTS is a version control tool with a distributed, client-server-based repository model. With a wide range when it comes to cross-platform support, VSTS is a great alternative with an equally good user interface. Note that VSTS follows the Merge or Lock concurrency model. VSTS is free to use for up to users with charges for additional users. They also offer a lot of other extensions, free as well as paid. Some of its best features include:

Supports SOAP network protocol.
Microsoft Azure enabled build hosting.
Supports most of the programming languages.
Can access Git.
Uses a changeset storage method.

8. HelixCore

Helix Core from Perforce is a reliable version control tool that can do equally as well as Git or Microsoft TFS. It is a client-server-based distribution control tool that can be an ideal Git alternative for those looking for a tool for larger development projects. Here are some of the strengths that make Helix Core a reliable VCS tool:

All file types are supported.
Master repository and central database maintained for file versions.
Allows for dynamic and flexible branching.
Scalable and ideal for large projects.
Fast performance.

9. ClearCase

ClearCase is a client-server repository model based tool from IBM Rational which has simple and basic infrastructure while still having the capability to handle larger files. ClearBase lets users branch directories, label them and version them easily with fewer complexities. The simplistic and straightforward UI alone is enough to set it as a good Git alternative. Other features of ClearCase include:

Integrates well with Microsoft Visual Studio.
Can handle parallel development.
Easily switch between projects.
Handles bigger repository sizes, higher number of files and big binary files really well.

10. Azure DevOps Server

Azure DevOps Server from Microsoft Visual Studios is a VSC tool that is based on a distributed, client-server repository model. Though it is not an open-source tool, it has a free version for up to 5 users. Azure DevOps Server lets you manage source codes and projects, have automated builds, enable requirement management and much more. Its other features include:

DevOps capabilities.
Allows unit test integration.
Easy branching and merging.
Easy to use and well integrated with other Microsoft products.

6 Additional Git Alternatives!

Conclusion

Git is a great open-source version control system that is highly efficient and super fast. But it is not the only one out there. There are a lot of less complex and equally capable version control software available that could better suit your needs, irrespective of whether you use it for individual or organizational purposes.

Each tool that we have discussed so far has its own unique set of features and benefits that make them great alternatives to Git. Be it for a small enterprise or a larger project, based on your requirement choose the right one that will work for you the best.