# OrbStack for Mac

> Docker and Linux machines, light as a feather.

OrbStack runs containers and Linux VMs with a fraction of the memory and battery cost of the alternatives, and starts in about two seconds.

## Facts

- Price: Free, with paid upgrades
- Developer: Orbital Labs
- Category: Developer Tools
- Website: https://orbstack.dev/
- Homebrew cask: orbstack
- Facts checked: 2026-10-19
- MacWorthy page: https://macworthy.com/apps/orbstack/

## Install

Homebrew:

```sh
brew install --cask orbstack
```

## Questions

### Is OrbStack free?

OrbStack is free to download and use, with paid upgrades for extra features.

### Where can I download OrbStack for Mac?

Download OrbStack from the developer's website (orbstack.dev). MacWorthy links only to official sources.

### Can I install OrbStack from the Terminal?

Yes. With Homebrew, run `brew install --cask orbstack`.

### What are good alternatives to OrbStack?

Other developer tools apps for Mac worth a look are Contained (free), Zed (open source), Ghostty (open source) and Warp (free + pro).

## Alternatives in Developer Tools

- [Contained](https://macworthy.com/apps/contained/): A Mac interface for Apple's container tool. (Free)
- [Zed](https://macworthy.com/apps/zed/): A code editor that runs at the speed of thought. (Open source)
- [Ghostty](https://macworthy.com/apps/ghostty/): A fast, feature-rich, truly native terminal. (Open source)
- [Warp](https://macworthy.com/apps/warp/): The terminal, reimagined around blocks and agents. (Free + Pro)
- [iTerm2](https://macworthy.com/apps/iterm2/): The terminal that taught macOS new tricks. (Open source)
- [Nova](https://macworthy.com/apps/nova/): Panic's beautiful, extensible code editor. (Subscription)
- [Tower](https://macworthy.com/apps/tower/): Git, with an undo button. (Subscription)
- [Fork](https://macworthy.com/apps/fork/): A fast, friendly Git client. (One-time purchase)

## Collections

- [The developer's desk](https://macworthy.com/collections/developer-desk/)

Tags: docker, containers, linux