Alternatives to Podman Compose
A command-line tool that runs Docker Compose files using Podman instead of Docker. The listings below can replace it for an important use case. Each note says what changes if you switch.
The original
Podman Compose
A command-line tool that runs Docker Compose files using Podman instead of Docker.
Replacements
Listings that take over the same core job as Podman Compose.
Docker Compose
A command-line tool that defines and runs multi-container applications from a single YAML file.
Docker Compose is the original tool for the same YAML format and is widely used, but needs Docker installed instead of rootless daemonless Podman.
nerdctl
A command-line tool for containerd that works like the docker command, including Compose support.
nerdctl runs Docker Compose files on containerd with a docker-style command line and rootless mode, but requires containerd rather than Podman.
Similar software
Related functionality, not a direct replacement.
Podman
Daemonless container engine with a Docker-compatible command line.
Kompose
A command-line tool that converts Docker Compose files into Kubernetes or OpenShift resources.
Portainer
Web interface for deploying and managing Docker and Kubernetes workloads.
Arcane
Modern web interface for managing Docker hosts and Compose stacks.
Dockhand
Docker management app with real-time container control and Compose stack support.
Podman Desktop
A desktop app for containers and Kubernetes that does not need a paid licence at a certain company size.
