Commit+ vs SmartGit
Cross-platform client with reflog access. Here is an honest look at how Commit+ and SmartGit compare for macOS developers.
Commit+
Quick overview
SmartGit is a Java-based client that runs on macOS, Windows, and Linux. It supports syntax highlighting and exposes the reflog, which can be useful for recovery, and it offers both subscription and perpetual licensing.
Its interface shows its age and the learning curve is steeper than most modern clients. Several features are missing or unintuitive for the price: there is no pull request management, no multi-author support, LFS must be installed separately, and partial staging is widely reported to be fiddly.
Commit+ vs SmartGit at a glance
| Feature | Commit+ | SmartGit |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free (open source) | From $59/yr, or a perpetual license · 30-day trial |
| Platform | macOS | macOS, Windows, Linux |
| Native app | Yes (Swift & SwiftUI) | No (Java-based) |
| Undo any action | Yes | Limited (undo last commit only) |
| Drag & Drop | Yes (cherry-pick, merge, rebase) | Partial (moving commits only) |
| Open source | Yes (AGPLv3) | No |
| In-app pull requests | Yes | No |
| Worktrees | Yes | Varies |
Where SmartGit wins
- Linux support alongside macOS and Windows
- Reflog access for recovery workflows
- Choice of subscription or perpetual license
- Syntax highlighting and a mature feature set
- Long track record with enterprise users
Best for: Cross-platform teams, including Linux users, who value reflog access and prefer a perpetual license option.
Where Commit+ wins
- Truly native macOS app — faster and lighter than a Java client
- Free and open source
- Undo for commits, stashes, branches, and remote operations
- Full Drag & Drop for interactive rebase and cherry-picking
- Modern, approachable interface
Best for: Mac developers who want a modern, native, free client instead of a heavier cross-platform Java app.
Verdict
SmartGit and Commit+ are both capable clients, but they aim at different priorities. SmartGit is a strong choice if you need linux support alongside macos and windows. If you work on a Mac and want the fastest path to Undo, Drag & Drop, Git Flow, and pull request management without paying, download Commit+ and give it a try on a real repository.
Frequently asked questions
Is SmartGit native on macOS?+
No. SmartGit is a Java application, so it does not have the same native feel or performance profile as Commit+ or Tower on macOS.
Is Commit+ cheaper than SmartGit?+
Yes. SmartGit starts at $59/year or requires a perpetual license. Commit+ is completely free and open source.
Does SmartGit support Undo like Commit+?+
SmartGit only undoes the last commit. Commit+ supports comprehensive Undo across commits, stashes, branches, discards, and remote operations.
Try Commit+ for free
A native Git client for macOS with Undo, Drag & Drop, Git Flow, and pull request management. Free and open source.
Download Commit+
