3 Open Source Alternatives to Docker Desktop

A list of 3 carefully selected open-source alternatives to Docker Desktop.

Adrian
Created by
Adrian
Mar 9, 20253 min read

The open-source alternatives are ranked based on our custom ranking system and score. This system takes into account various factors to determine the best alternatives.

If you’re looking for alternative features or workflows, here is a prepared detailed list of Docker Desktop open-source alternatives — each with its own distinctive strengths and key features.

#1
Dokploy logo

Dokploy

17,703
918

Dokploy is a developer-centric open source deployment platform designed for seamless multi-server application management. It delivers comprehensive control, flexibility, and a community-driven approach that makes deploying and managing projects effortless.

Dokploy screenshot

Key Features

  • Flexible application deployment using Nixpacks, Buildpacks, or Dockerfiles
  • Native Docker Compose and Docker Swarm support for orchestration
  • Advanced user control with detailed roles and permissions
  • Comprehensive database management with built-in backups
  • Real-time monitoring and log management for optimal performance
  • Open source and self-hosted options to avoid vendor lock-in
  • Managed hosting plan with priority support available

Dokploy streamlines deployments with features such as native Docker Compose support, flexible application deployment using Nixpacks, Heroku Buildpacks, or custom Dockerfiles, and advanced user and database management. The platform offers full API and CLI access along with real-time monitoring to keep projects secure and efficient, catering to both self-hosted and managed hosting environments.

#2
Dyrector logo

Dyrector

1,501
109

Dyrector.io is a self-hosted container management platform that streamlines continuous delivery and deployment workflows. It simplifies release management by enabling developers to create low-code CD workflows and manage multiple deployment instances effortlessly.

Dyrector screenshot

Key Features

  • Self-hosted and open source platform
  • Low-code continuous delivery workflows
  • Automated, autopilot release management
  • Multi-instance deployment capabilities
  • Seamless integration with CI/CD tools
  • Vendor-neutral with support for major cloud providers

Dyrector.io automates container deployments while eliminating the hassle of complex YAML configurations. The platform empowers teams to build their own delivery channels, automate release processes, and manage multi-instance deployments effectively. With seamless integrations to popular tools like GitLab, GitHub, Slack, and support for AWS, GCP, and Azure, it provides a flexible, vendor-neutral solution built for modern development needs.

#3
Minikube logo

Minikube

30,026
4,951

Minikube is a tool that helps developers run Kubernetes clusters locally on macOS, Linux, and Windows. It is designed for both application developers and newcomers to Kubernetes, offering a straightforward setup process to facilitate testing and development.

Minikube screenshot

Key Features

  • Supports the latest Kubernetes release and multiple previous minor versions
  • Cross-platform compatibility (Linux, macOS, Windows)
  • Flexible deployment options: VM, container, or bare-metal
  • Integration with multiple container runtimes like CRI-O, containerd, and Docker
  • Direct API endpoint for rapid image loading and building
  • Advanced features including LoadBalancer, FeatureGates, and network policies
  • Easy installation of Kubernetes applications through addons
  • Compatibility with common CI environments

Minikube quickly sets up a local Kubernetes cluster, enabling you to experiment with the latest Kubernetes releases as well as recent minor versions. It supports diverse deployment options including virtual machines, containers, and bare-metal installations, while offering advanced functionalities such as LoadBalancer, filesystem mounts, and network policies.

Price comparison of Docker Desktop open-source alternatives

ToolTier 1Details
Dokploy logo
Dokploy
$4.5
Dokploy Open Source
Learn more

* Pricing shown is based on publicly available information and may not reflect current rates. Visit each tool's website for detailed pricing information and additional tiers.

This comparison data was compiled with AI assistance.
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