Alternatives to Docker Engine

The container runtime that builds, packages and runs applications in Docker containers. The listings below can replace it for an important use case. Each note says what changes if you switch.

Replacements

Listings that take over the same core job as Docker Engine.

  • Podman

    Daemonless container engine with a Docker-compatible command line.

    FreeOpen sourceWindowsmacOSLinuxCommand line

    Podman runs containers without a background daemon, supports rootless use and keeps a near drop-in Docker command line, but rootless networking and volume permissions behave differently.

  • Docker Desktop

    The standard way to run containers on a Windows or Mac desktop, free for personal use and paid for larger companies.

    FreemiumProprietaryWindowsmacOSLinux

    Docker Desktop wraps the engine with Compose, Kubernetes and a dashboard for Windows, macOS and Linux desktops, but it is closed source and paid above a company size.

  • Colima

    Run container environments on macOS and Linux from the command line.

    FreeOpen sourcemacOSLinux

    Colima runs container environments from the command line on macOS as well as Linux, with multiple instances and automatic port forwarding, though its Docker runtime still needs a Docker client.

  • OrbStack

    Fast Docker and Linux virtual machine runtime for macOS.

    FreemiumProprietarymacOS

    OrbStack is a closed-source macOS-only Docker and Linux virtual machine runtime suited to Mac desktops rather than servers, with a paid licence required for commercial use.

Similar software

Related functionality, not a direct replacement.