GitHub Actions vs. GitLab CI

This page will help you decide which tool to use to automatically build, test, and deploy your code (CI/CD).

Answer a few questions → Get a clear recommendation.

Options you can choose from:

GitHub Actions

A built-in automation tool for GitHub. Lets you automatically build, test, and deploy your code whenever you push changes. Has a large library of ready-made actions you can reuse.

GitLab CI

A built-in automation tool for GitLab. Lets you define automated build, test, and deployment steps in a single file. Supports running those steps on your own servers or in the cloud.

Answer a few simple questions below. 👇

Based on your answers, you will receive specific recommendations that you can click on to view in detail.

Decision questions

Answer honestly according to the current needs of the project and the team.

1. Where is your code hosted?

2. How complex are your automated build and deployment steps?

3. Where do you want the automation jobs to run?

4. What is the size and experience level of the team?

5. How do you need to connect your automation tool to other services?

6. How much detail do you need when something goes wrong in an automated job?

Result

Based on your answers, see the recommended solution below. 👇

Each option has its own page where you will find:

  • when it is appropriate
  • when it is not
  • typical usage
  • most common mistakes
GitHub Actions
When to use it, common mistakes & best practices
→
GitLab CI
When to use it, common mistakes & best practices
→

Important note

⚠️ Both tools are very powerful and often combined with other tools. The choice depends on code hosting, team size, pipeline complexity, and infrastructure preferences.

Consider the result as a recommendation, not a dogma.

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