Code review is an essential part of the software development process that helps ensure the quality, maintainability, and accuracy of code. While GitLab provides a built-in code review feature, it's always beneficial to explore alternatives and competitors that offer unique features and capabilities. In this article, we will discuss the ten best GitLab code review alternatives and competitors in 2024.

1. GitHub

GitHub is one of the most popular code hosting platforms and offers robust code review capabilities. It allows developers to collaborate on projects, review code changes, and provide feedback using pull requests. GitHub provides an intuitive interface, integration with various development tools, and extensive community support. With its vast user base, GitHub is an excellent choice for developers who value a vibrant ecosystem and seamless code collaboration.

Pros:

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  • Intuitive interface
  • Powerful code review capabilities
  • Integration with development tools
  • Vast community support

Cons:

  • Limited self-hosted options compared to GitLab

2. Bitbucket

Bitbucket is another widely-used code hosting platform that provides comprehensive code review functionalities. It supports pull requests, allowing developers to review, comment, and merge code changes seamlessly. Bitbucket offers integration with popular development tools, such as Jira and Trello, making it an attractive choice for teams using Atlassian's ecosystem. Additionally, Bitbucket provides both cloud-based and self-hosted options, catering to different deployment preferences.

Pros:

  • Robust code review functionalities
  • Integration with Atlassian development tools
  • Cloud-based and self-hosted options available

Cons:

  • Less community support compared to GitHub

3. Gerrit

Gerrit is an open-source code review system that focuses on providing a lightweight and efficient code review process. It offers features such as code commenting, inline review, and integration with popular version control systems, including Git. Gerrit is known for its strong emphasis on code quality and strict access control, making it an ideal choice for projects requiring rigorous review processes and strict adherence to coding standards.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and efficient code review process
  • Strong emphasis on code quality
  • Strict access control
  • Integration with popular version control systems

Cons:

  • May require additional setup and configuration compared to GitLab

4. Phabricator

Phabricator is an open-source code collaboration platform that provides a comprehensive set of tools, including code review functionality. It offers features such as inline commenting, task tracking, and continuous integration. Phabricator aims to streamline the development workflow by integrating various aspects of the software development lifecycle into a single platform. With its extensive range of tools, Phabricator is an excellent choice for organizations seeking an all-in-one code collaboration solution.

Pros:

  • Comprehensive set of tools for code collaboration
  • Inline commenting and task tracking
  • Continuous integration capabilities
  • Integration with other development lifecycle aspects

Cons:

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  • May have a steeper learning curve compared to simpler code review tools

5. Review Board

Review Board is an open-source web-based code review tool that focuses on simplicity and ease of use. It provides a user-friendly interface, allowing developers to review code changes, comment on specific lines, and track the progress of reviews. Review Board supports various version control systems, including Git, Mercurial, and Subversion. With its simplicity and straightforwardness, Review Board is an excellent choice for teams looking for a lightweight code review solution.

Pros:

  • User-friendly interface
  • Support for multiple version control systems
  • Simplicity and ease of use

Cons:

  • Limited advanced features compared to more feature-rich tools

6. Crucible

Crucible, developed by Atlassian, is a code review tool specifically designed for enterprise teams. It offers advanced code review capabilities, including inline commenting, threaded discussions, and integration with Jira. Crucible supports multiple version control systems and provides detailed reporting and analytics for better code quality management. With its focus on enterprise-grade features and integration with other Atlassian products, Crucible is an excellent choice for large organizations with complex code review needs.

Pros:

  • Advanced code review capabilities
  • Integration with Jira and other Atlassian products
  • Support for multiple version control systems
  • Detailed reporting and analytics

Cons:

  • May have a higher cost compared to other alternatives

7. GitKraken

GitKraken is a popular Git client that also includes code review functionalities. It provides an intuitive interface, allowing developers to review code changes, comment on specific lines, and easily merge branches. GitKraken integrates with popular code hosting platforms, including GitHub and Bitbucket, making it suitable for developers who want a unified code review experience across different repositories. With its focus on simplicity and usability, GitKraken is an excellent choice for individual developers and small teams.

Pros:

  • Intuitive interface
  • Seamless integration with popular code hosting platforms
  • Simplicity and ease of use

Cons:

  • Limited advanced features compared to dedicated code review tools

8. Collaborator

Collaborator is a comprehensive code review tool that supports various version control systems, including Git and Subversion. It offers features such as inline commenting, file comparison, and customizable review templates. Collaborator provides detailed reporting and metrics to track code review progress and identify potential issues. With its extensive set of features and focus on process optimization, Collaborator is an excellent choice for organizations looking for a code review tool that emphasizes traceability and compliance.

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Pros:

  • Support for multiple version control systems
  • Extensive features for code review
  • Detailed reporting and metrics
  • Customizable review templates

Cons:

  • May have a steeper learning curve compared to simpler tools

9. Upsource

Upsource, developed by JetBrains, is a code review and repository browsing tool that supports Git, Mercurial, and Subversion. It offers features such as code commenting, syntax highlighting, and integration with IntelliJ IDEA and other JetBrains products. Upsource provides an interactive and collaborative environment for code discussions and allows developers to easily navigate through repositories. With its integration with JetBrains' development ecosystem, Upsource is an excellent choice for teams using JetBrains IDEs.

Pros:

  • Code commenting and syntax highlighting
  • Integration with JetBrains products
  • Interactive and collaborative environment
  • Support for multiple version control systems

Cons:

  • Limited support for non-JetBrains IDE users

10. Klocwork

Klocwork is a code review tool that focuses on static code analysis and defect detection. It offers advanced analysis capabilities, including bug and vulnerability detection, code standard checking, and performance optimization. Klocwork integrates with popular IDEs and version control systems, making it easy to incorporate code review into the development workflow. With its emphasis on code quality and defect prevention, Klocwork is an excellent choice for organizations seeking a comprehensive code review solution with strong static analysis capabilities.

Pros:

  • Advanced static code analysis capabilities
  • Integration with popular IDEs and version control systems
  • Bug and vulnerability detection
  • Code standard checking and performance optimization

Cons:

  • May have a higher cost compared to other alternatives

In conclusion, while GitLab provides a built-in code review feature, exploring alternative code review tools can offer unique features and capabilities that better suit individual or organizational needs. The ten alternatives and competitors mentioned in this article, including GitHub, Bitbucket, Gerrit, Phabricator, Review Board, Crucible, GitKraken, Collaborator, Upsource, and Klocwork, offer a diverse range of features and customization options for developers and teams looking to enhance their code review process. Consider factors such as integration with existing tools, ease of use, advanced features, and specific requirements when choosing the most suitable GitLab code review alternative for your needs.