Our verdict: GitButler rethinks the Git client: instead of switching branches, you keep several applied at once and drag changes into the right one. Stacked branches, an undo timeline and easy commit editing make it well suited to busy feature work and AI-assisted coding. Its workflow differs from plain Git, and the version number is still below 1.0.
About GitButler
GitButler is a desktop Git client and command-line tool from GitButler, Inc. It works on normal Git repositories but adds its own workspace model: several branches can be applied to your working directory at the same time, and you assign each changed file or hunk to a branch.
It supports stacked branches that build on each other, keeps a timeline of operations so you can undo almost anything, and makes it easy to move changes between commits, reorder, squash and amend. The source code is published under the Functional Source License (FSL-1.1-MIT), which allows any use except building a competing product and converts each release to MIT after two years.
What it does well
- Parallel branches. Work on several branches at once without switching or stashing.
- Stacked branches. Build branches on top of each other and land them separately.
- Undo timeline. Restores the project to any earlier operation.
- Commit editing. Move changes between commits, reorder, squash and amend by dragging.
- CLI and TUI. The but command line tool works on the same workspace as the app.
Who it is for
Good fit
Developers juggling several features or pull requests at once, including AI-assisted workflows.
Look elsewhere
People who want a classic Git GUI that mirrors Git commands one to one.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free to use
- Work on several branches at the same time
- Undo for almost any operation
- Easy commit history editing
Cons
- Workspace model takes time to learn
- Fair-source license, not OSI open source
- Still at version 0.x with frequent changes
How to install GitButler
The link downloads the latest MSI from GitButler's own servers. GitButler works on existing Git repositories but creates a special workspace branch while active; switch back with a normal git checkout when you stop using it. Connect GitHub or GitLab in settings only if you want to open pull requests from the app.
Questions about GitButler
Is GitButler free?
Yes. The GitButler app and CLI are free to use. The source code is available under the Functional Source License, which becomes MIT after two years.
Does GitButler work with normal Git repositories?
Yes. It works on any Git repository and pushes ordinary branches to GitHub, GitLab or other Git servers.
What are parallel branches?
Several branches applied to your working directory at once. You decide which branch each change belongs to, and commit them separately.
