Gitea

Self-Hosted

Lightweight self-hosted Git service alternative to GitHub/GitLab

Overview

Gitea is an open-source, lightweight self-hosted Git service built with Go, optimized for speed and minimal resource use. It supports core Git workflows: repo hosting, issue tracking, pull requests, code reviews, and native CI/CD via Gitea Actions. Additional features include user/organization management, webhooks, and markdown support. Deployment options are flexible: Docker containers, pre-built binaries, package managers (apt/yum), or Kubernetes. Ideal for teams/individuals wanting control over code without the overhead of larger tools like GitLab.

Self-Hosting Resources

Find Official Image on Docker Hub View Source & Docs

Below is a reference structure for docker-compose.yml. ⚠️ Do NOT run blindly. Replace placeholders with official values.

docker-compose.template.yml TEMPLATE


version: '3'
services:
  gitea:
    image: <OFFICIAL_IMAGE_NAME>:latest
    container_name: gitea
    ports:
      - "8080:<APP_INTERNAL_PORT>"
    volumes:
      - ./data:/app/data
    restart: unless-stopped

Key Features

Lightweight Git repository hosting with minimal resource requirements
Built-in issue tracking, pull requests, and code review tools
Native CI/CD via Gitea Actions and webhook integrations
User and organization management with fine-grained permissions

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is Gitea hard to install?

No—Gitea offers simple deployment options like Docker (one-line command), pre-built binaries, or package manager installations (apt/yum). A web-based setup wizard guides you through initial configuration (database, admin user) after launch, making it accessible for users with basic server skills.

? Is Gitea a good alternative to GitHub or GitLab?

Yes—for small teams or individuals seeking a lightweight, self-hosted Git service. It covers core features like repo hosting, PRs, issues, and CI/CD. While it lacks some enterprise features of GitLab or GitHub’s large ecosystem, it’s perfect for those wanting control without heavy resource usage.

? Is Gitea completely free to use?

Yes—Gitea is open-source under the MIT License, so it’s free to use, modify, and distribute. There are no subscription fees; you only pay for your server (if self-hosting) or use a free hosting option for personal projects.

Top Alternatives

GitHub Cloud Search Google

Bitbucket Cloud Search Google

Tool Info

Pricing Open Source

Category Software Development - Project Management

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Privacy-focused (full control over code data)
⊕ Low system resource consumption (runs on small servers)
⊕ Completely free and open-source (MIT License)
⊕ Easy deployment via Docker, binaries, or packages

Cons

⊖ Lacks advanced enterprise features of GitLab (e.g., advanced security scanning)
⊖ Requires basic server administration knowledge for self-hosting
⊖ Smaller ecosystem and fewer third-party integrations than GitHub