Docker Desktop

by Docker · Developer tools

FreemiumWindowsMacLinux

Run containers locally with a GUI, Docker Engine and Compose.

Official download from docker.com (opens in a new tab)

Opens docker.com, Docker's own site. No mirror, no bundle.

Overview

What is Docker Desktop?

Docker Desktop bundles Docker Engine, Compose and Kubernetes with a dashboard. It is free for personal use, education and small businesses; larger companies need a paid subscription, so check Docker's terms.

Key features

  • Docker Engine and Docker Compose
  • Optional local Kubernetes
  • Container and image dashboard
  • Extensions marketplace

Good to know: Free for personal use and small businesses; larger organisations need a paid plan under Docker's subscription terms.

Best for

  • Running databases and services for local development
  • Reproducible dev environments
  • Learning containers

Included in starter kits

Install

How to install Docker Desktop

  1. 1Open the official Docker Desktop download page on docker.com.
  2. 2Pick the build for your system (Windows, Mac, Linux; check x64, ARM or Apple silicon where offered).
  3. 3Run the installer and read each screen; decline anything you did not ask for.
  4. 4Keep it updated from the app's own updater or your package manager.

Install from the command line

  • Windows · winget

    winget install --id Docker.DockerDesktop -e --source winget

  • Mac · Homebrew

    brew install --cask docker-desktop

Package IDs checked against the public winget, Homebrew and Flathub repositories on 1 Nov 2026. Build a script for several apps.

Safety

Download Docker Desktop safely

  • Check the domain

    The real download lives on docker.com. Look-alike domains and search ads are the most common trap.

  • Skip mirrors

    Download portals can wrap installers in adware or old versions. You never need them for this app.

  • Verify if you can

    If the publisher lists a checksum, compare it with our in-browser checker before running the file.

  • Watch the installer

    Untick extras, browser changes or trials you did not ask for.

Open the checksum checker

Alternatives

Docker Desktop alternatives

Other developer tools apps, closest platform match first.

All development

FAQ

Docker Desktop questions

Where can I download Docker Desktop safely?

Download Docker Desktop only from Docker's official site at docker.com. Avoid mirror and "download portal" sites, which can bundle extra software with the installer.

Is Docker Desktop free?

Docker Desktop has a free plan with limits, and paid plans or upgrades for more features. Check docker.com for current pricing.

Does Docker Desktop work on Windows, Mac and Linux?

Docker Desktop is available for Windows, Mac, Linux. Check Docker's download page for exact system requirements and whether your processor (x64, ARM or Apple silicon) is supported.

Can I install Docker Desktop from the command line?

Yes, with winget on Windows (winget install --id Docker.DockerDesktop -e); Homebrew on Mac (brew install --cask docker-desktop). Package managers fetch the publisher's files and make updates easy.

What are good alternatives to Docker Desktop?

See the alternatives section on this page and the full developer tools list on AltFTool, which shows each app's licence and platforms side by side.