Git vs GitHub: What’s the difference?

Every developer knows what Git is, but if you’re new to software development, you might not know what GitHub is yet. The two are often mentioned together, sometimes as if they’re the same thing. But while they’re closely connected, the two platforms serve very different purposes.

Git is a version control system that runs in the command line, helping you track changes in your code. GitHub, on the other hand, takes Git to the next level by adding collaboration, automation, and accessibility through a web-based platform. You can use Git without GitHub, but together, they make teamwork and code management much easier.

In this guide, we’ll break down the difference between Git and GitHub, explain their key features, and show you how they work together. By the end, you’ll know when to use Git, when to rely on GitHub, and how to get the most out of both. Let’s ‘git’ started!

What is Git?

Git is a free, open-source, distributed version control system created in 2005. It’s designed to track changes in code and facilitate collaboration, whether you’re working solo or as part of a team on a large-scale project.

At its core, Git lets developers save versions of their code (known as “commits”), experiment with new features in branches, and merge those changes back into the main project. All of this happens offline, and each team member has a full copy of the repository on their machine, which makes Git fast, reliable, and resilient — even if the central server goes down.

While Git is powerful and great for developers who prioritize speed, privacy, and control over their repositories, it’s primarily a command-line tool. If you want to collaborate with others or host your code online, you’ll need a platform like GitHub to bring everything together. 

What is GitHub?

GitHub, launched in 2008, is a web-based platform built on top of Git. GitHub repositories serve as cloud-based storage solutions that facilitate collaboration among developers. Think of it as Git with extra tools for collaboration, project management, and workflow automation. Since being acquired by Microsoft in 2018, GitHub has only grown in popularity, especially within the open-source community.

GitHub takes Git’s core features — version control and change tracking — and enhances them with an intuitive interface and a range of collaboration tools, providing robust source code management functionality. It’s where developers share code, contribute to projects, and manage workflows, all in one place. With GitHub Actions, it also supports CI/CD pipelines, allowing teams to automate testing, builds, and deployments.

Git repository vs GitHub repository

A Git repository lives on your local machine, allowing you to manage source code history, track changes, and experiment with new features offline. On the other hand, a GitHub repository is a cloud-based storage location for Git repositories. 

Should you use Git and GitHub together?

Most developers use both Git and GitHub together. However, usage can vary depending on the workflow:

• Solo developers might just use Git if they don’t need remote storage or collaboration.
• Teams and open-source projects almost always use both since GitHub makes it easy to share and manage code.
• Enterprise developers sometimes use alternatives like GitLab, Bitbucket, or self-hosted Git servers instead of GitHub, but they still use Git as the core version control system.

Features: Git vs GitHub

For beginners, the distinction between Git and GitHub can feel a bit confusing. But they’re designed to work together: Git handles the core mechanics of version control, and GitHub simplifies sharing and collaboration across teams. Git acts as the foundation for version control, but without a hosting service, sharing and collaborating with others can become challenging. 

Let’s break down the features of each and see how they complement each other.

Git

• Distributed version control: Git allows every user to maintain a full copy of the repository locally. This speeds up workflows and ensures work continues even without internet access.
• Branching and merging: Developers can create isolated branches for new features or bug fixes, experiment freely, and merge changes back into the main codebase when ready.
• Commit history: Git maintains a detailed history of changes, making it easy to revert, track progress, or review past decisions.
• Offline functionality: Since everything is stored locally, developers can work without relying on a central server.
• Speed and efficiency: Git handles large projects quickly and efficiently, making it a go-to tool for enterprise-level software.
• Command-line power: Advanced users love the control Git’s command-line interface provides, offering flexibility and automation options.

GitHub

• Cloud-based repository hosting: GitHub allows teams to store and share Git repositories, enabling remote collaboration with ease.
• Pull requests and code reviews: These tools streamline collaboration, letting developers propose changes, review each other’s code, and discuss improvements.
• Project management tools: With project boards, milestones, and issue tracking, GitHub keeps teams organized and focused.
• GitHub Actions: Users can automate workflows like running tests, building code, or deploying projects directly from your repositories.
• Community and collaboration: GitHub’s social coding environment enables developers to contribute to open-source projects, discover new tools, and network with peers.
• Integration-friendly: GitHub connects seamlessly with third-party services like CI/CD pipelines, bug trackers, and cloud hosting tools.
• Website hosting: GitHub Pages lets developers publish websites directly from repositories, perfect for project documentation or portfolios.
• Security features: With branch protection, dependency scanning, and vulnerability alerts, GitHub prioritizes secure coding practices.
• Marketplace: Users can access a range of tools and extensions to customize their development environment.
• User management feature: GitHub includes built-in user management capabilities, making it easier to manage permissions and collaborate within teams.

Advantages: Git vs. GitHub

While Git is the backbone of version control, GitHub takes collaboration and project management to the next level. Let’s break down what makes each one stand out.

Git

Here are a few key reasons developers like using Git:

• Full control: Git runs locally, so you don’t have to rely on an external platform or internet access to manage your code.
• Privacy and security: Since Git doesn’t require cloud storage, developers can keep their code completely private without depending on GitHub’s security policies.
• Flexibility: Git can be used with other hosting platforms like GitLab, Bitbucket, or even self-hosted repositories, avoiding vendor lock-in.
• No account required: Unlike GitHub, which requires an account, Git can be used on any computer without logging in.
• Faster performance: Since Git operates locally, actions like commits, diffs, and log history are nearly instant, without needing to sync with an online server.
• Offline access: Git works entirely offline, making it ideal for working in environments with limited or no internet access.
• Command-line power: Some developers prefer the efficiency and control of managing their repositories through Git’s command-line interface instead of relying on a web-based UI.
• Easy branching and merging: Git’s lightweight branching makes it super easy to experiment with new ideas without messing up the main codebase. When you’re ready, merging is straightforward and keeps everything organized.
• Open-source: Git is free, open-source, and constantly evolving, thanks to a huge developer community. 

GitHub

Here’s why people like using GitHub:

• Collaboration: GitHub makes it easy to work with others, offering tools like pull requests, code reviews, and discussions.
• Cloud-based storage: Unlike Git, which is local, GitHub stores repositories online, making them accessible from anywhere.
• Version control with a UI: GitHub provides a graphical interface for managing repositories, making it easier than using Git solely through the command line.
• Issue tracking: Built-in tools for tracking bugs, feature requests, and project progress streamline development.
• CI/CD integration: GitHub Actions and third-party tools automate testing, deployments, and workflows.
• Security and backups: GitHub provides repository backups, access controls, and security features like secret scanning and Dependabot alerts.
• Community and discovery: Developers can share, contribute, and discover open-source projects easily on GitHub.
• Integration with other tools: GitHub connects seamlessly with platforms like Slack, Jira, and VS Code for a smoother development workflow.

Disadvantages

As great as Git and GitHub are, each platform is not without its challenges. Understanding their drawbacks can help you decide which tool is the best fit for your workflow — and how to work around any potential issues.

Git

• Learning curve: Git is powerful, but it’s not always beginner-friendly. Concepts like rebasing, merge conflicts, and detached HEAD states can take some getting used to.
• No built-in UI: By default, Git runs in the command line. While there are third-party GUI tools, the terminal-first approach can be intimidating if you’re not comfortable with text-based commands.
• History rewriting: Git lets you rewrite commit history, which can be useful, but also risky. A wrong force push can erase important changes, so caution is key.
• Not ideal for large files: Git wasn’t designed to handle big binary files like videos or large datasets. Solutions like Git LFS exist, but they add extra steps to your workflow.
• Self-hosting means extra work: Hosting your own Git repositories gives you control, but it also means you’re responsible for security, backups, and maintenance — something to consider before going all in.

GitHub

While GitHub makes collaboration easier, it comes with some limitations that might affect how you work. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Needs an internet connection: Unlike Git, which lets you work offline, GitHub requires an internet connection to push and pull changes. That can be frustrating if you’re dealing with spotty wifi.
• Private repositories aren’t free: Public repositories are free, but if your team needs private repos with advanced features, you’ll need to pay for a plan.
• Less control over hosting: Since GitHub manages the infrastructure, you’re at their mercy if the platform has downtime (which, while rare, does happen).
• Limited flexibility for custom workflows: While GitHub offers great integrations, it’s still a managed service, meaning you don’t have as much control as you would with a fully self-hosted Git setup.
• Public projects require caution: If you’re working on an open-source project, anyone can see your code. That’s great for collaboration, but it also means you need to be extra careful about accidentally exposing sensitive data.

Differences: Git vs GitHub

While Git and GitHub are closely connected, they serve distinct purposes. Understanding their differences can help you see how they complement each other to support version control and collaboration. Here’s a breakdown:

• Git is software, GitHub is a service: Git is a version control tool, while GitHub is an online platform that hosts Git repositories. Think of Git as the core technology and GitHub as the platform that builds on it.
• Maintained by different entities: Git is maintained by the Linux community. GitHub is managed by Microsoft after its acquisition in 2018.
• Command-line vs GUI: Git requires you to use a command-line interface to execute tasks. GitHub provides a graphical user interface (GUI), making it easier for users who prefer visual tools.
• Local vs cloud: Git works offline and is installed locally on your computer. GitHub is a cloud-based platform, requiring an internet connection to access repositories.
• Code management vs collaboration: Git focuses on tracking changes and managing version history. GitHub adds a collaborative layer, allowing teams to host, share, and review code seamlessly.
• User management: Git doesn’t manage users or permissions — it’s purely a code versioning tool. GitHub includes user management features, making it ideal for teams working together.
• Different timelines: Git was launched in 2005, while GitHub followed in 2008.
• Tool integrations: Git is minimalistic, requiring fewer external tools. GitHub integrates with a wide range of third-party apps.
• Licensing and pricing: Git is entirely free and open-source. GitHub has free plans for public repositories and tiered paid options for private repositories and additional features.
• Desktop apps: Git has Git Gui for desktop users, while GitHub offers GitHub Desktop for those who want an easier way to manage repositories locally.

Pricing: Git vs GitHub

Money plays a big role when choosing the right tool, especially when comparing a free, open-source solution like Git with a platform like GitHub that offers various paid features. Let’s break down what you need to know about pricing for both.

Git

One of the best things about Git is that it’s completely free. Since Git is an open-source version control system, there are no costs associated with downloading, using, or modifying it. You can host your own repositories on any server without paying a dime, making it a cost-effective solution for teams that want full control over their infrastructure. 

However, if you choose to use a hosting service for Git repositories (like GitHub, GitLab, or Bitbucket), you may need to pay for storage, access controls, or additional collaboration features.

GitHub

GitHub offers both free and paid plans, depending on the level of features and support you need.

Free plan: Great for individuals and small teams, GitHub’s free tier includes unlimited public and private repositories but with limited collaboration features and GitHub Actions minutes.

Team plan: Priced at $4 per user/month, this plan unlocks advanced project management tools, better security controls, and the ability to invite unlimited free guests.

Enterprise plan: Starting at $21 per user/month, this tier includes advanced security, compliance, and administrative features, along with priority support and enhanced integrations.

Which is better: Git or GitHub?

It’s not about which is better — Git and GitHub serve different purposes, and most developers use them together.

Git is an open-source version control system that lets you track changes and manage code locally. It works offline and gives you full control over your repositories.
GitHub is a cloud-based platform built around Git, adding collaboration tools, automation, and a place to share projects with others.

Neither replaces the other—Git is the foundation, and GitHub enhances it with features that make teamwork and project management easier. If you’re working solo, Git alone may be enough. If you’re collaborating or want cloud storage, GitHub makes things smoother. Most developers use both to get the best of both worlds.

Why consider Backlog?

While GitHub offers basic project management features like issues and Kanban boards, it’s mainly designed for managing code, not full project workflows. Backlog stands out because it’s a more robust, all-in-one platform that integrates Git, project management, issue tracking, Kanban boards, Gantt charts, and documentation into one seamless experience. 

This combination makes Backlog not only easier to use but also more efficient for teams who need a unified tool for both development and project tracking. With Backlog, you don’t need to juggle multiple platforms — you get everything you need in one place. 

For teams looking for an all-in-one solution that streamlines both development and collaboration, it’s worth exploring how Backlog fits into the mix.

How Backlog compares

Choosing the right tool depends on your team’s workflow. If version control is your main priority, Git and GitHub might be all you need. But if you’re looking for a way to manage projects, track issues, and collaborate across teams in one place, Backlog offers a better option.

1. All-in-one platform

While GitHub provides basic project management features, it often requires additional tools to fully manage your team’s workflow. Backlog eliminates the need for separate tools by combining Git, Kanban boards, issue tracking, and project management into a single platform. This integration allows teams to manage code and projects seamlessly, improving efficiency and reducing context-switching.

2. Smarter Kanban boards

GitHub’s Kanban boards require users to manually move issues between stages, which can be time-consuming and error-prone. Backlog’s Kanban boards automatically sync with task statuses, offering a more streamlined and automated project-tracking system. This reduces the need for manual updates and helps teams stay organized with less effort.

Example: In GitHub, a developer might manually update the Kanban board when a task is completed. In Backlog, the task automatically moves between stages as its status is updated, saving time and keeping the project organized without extra work.

3. SVN support 

While GitHub supports Git repositories, Backlog provides support for both Git and Subversion (SVN), offering flexibility for teams that use a mix of version control systems. This makes it easy to work with different repositories without needing to switch between platforms.

Example: A team working on multiple projects with different version control systems can manage both Git and SVN repos in Backlog, keeping all their work centralized without extra effort. GitHub, on the other hand, requires using separate systems for SVN.

4. Built-in Gantt charts

GitHub’s project management tools don’t offer an integrated Gantt chart for tracking project timelines and dependencies. Backlog, however, includes visual Gantt charts, which allow project managers to see deadlines, task dependencies, and team progress — all in one place. This visual representation makes it easier to manage and adjust project schedules.

Example: A product manager using GitHub has to manually track task deadlines or use a third-party tool to visualize project timelines. With Backlog, Gantt charts are integrated with the task and code management system, automatically updating as tasks are completed.

5. Direct linking of code and issues

In GitHub, developers often have to manually link pull requests to issues or tasks. Backlog makes this process seamless by automatically linking commits, pull requests, and issues, reducing administrative work and improving progress visibility.

Example: When a developer fixes a bug in GitHub, they must update the issue manually to reflect the code change. In Backlog, the commit is automatically linked to the related issue, making it easier for the team to track progress and see what’s been done without extra steps.

6. Integrated wiki 

GitHub’s wiki is a separate feature that requires extra navigation, making it harder to keep documentation in sync with projects and tasks. Backlog’s wiki is integrated directly into the platform, so documentation can be easily referenced alongside tasks and code, streamlining the process of keeping everything aligned.

7. Flexible permissions 

GitHub’s permission settings are more limited, often applying to entire repositories or organizations. Backlog offers more granular permission controls, allowing teams to define who can access and edit specific tasks, issues, and repositories, improving security and control.

8. Seamless integration with Cacoo

Backlog syncs directly with Cacoo, Nulab’s powerful diagramming tool, making it easier for teams to plan, communicate, and collaborate visually. By using Backlog and Cacoo together, you can attach flowcharts, wireframes, and system diagrams directly to tasks, keeping all project-related visuals in one place.

Example: A developer working on a new API can attach a Cacoo sequence diagram to a Backlog issue, making it easier for the team to understand workflows and dependencies without searching through multiple tools.

9. Merge requests

GitHub’s pull requests are useful, but they often involve complex workflows and disjointed comments. Backlog’s merge requests include inline comments, task tracking, and better integration with project management features, making code reviews clearer and more efficient.

Example: A junior developer submitting a pull request in GitHub might get a stream of comments scattered across different sections. Backlog’s merge requests provide a more organized review system, where comments are inline with the code and task status is updated automatically.

10. More friendly for non-developers 

While GitHub is great for developers, it can be overwhelming for non-technical team members like designers or marketers. Backlog’s user interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, making it accessible for everyone on the team, regardless of their technical background.

Example: A designer who needs to track project progress might find GitHub’s interface confusing. In Backlog, they can easily access task boards, see project statuses, and communicate with developers, all within a straightforward, non-technical interface.

11. Supports Agile workflows

For teams using Agile methodologies, Backlog includes Scrum and Kanban support, along with tools for sprint planning, burndown charts, and Agile boards. While GitHub has some Agile functionality, Backlog is specifically designed to integrate these workflows seamlessly into project tracking.

Example: A Scrum team using GitHub must manually manage sprints or use third-party tools for tracking progress. In Backlog, Agile boards are built-in, and burndown charts automatically update, allowing teams to focus on the work instead of managing tools.

Finding the right version control solution for your team

Choosing between Git and GitHub comes down to what your team needs. Git gives you complete control over your repositories, while GitHub builds on Git with cloud-based collaboration, automation, and integrations to make teamwork easier.

Whether you’re just looking for a way to track code changes or need a platform for managing projects and collaborating with your team, picking the right tool can make all the difference in how smoothly your development process runs.

At the end of the day, it’s all about what works best for you. If you’re after an all-in-one solution, Backlog might be worth checking out. It rolls version control, bug tracking, and project management into one, so you can stay on top of tasks, track issues, and manage code—all in a single, easy-to-use platform.

Whatever you choose, embracing modern version control practices is key to building great software. Happy coding!