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SVN (Subversion) vs SourceTree: What are the differences?
Introduction
In this article, we will explore the key differences between SVN (Subversion) and SourceTree.
Collaboration and Version Control: SVN is a centralized version control system, where all the codebase and history are stored in a central repository. It allows multiple users to collaborate and synchronize their work. On the other hand, SourceTree is a graphical user interface (GUI) that can be used with both centralized (like SVN) and distributed version control systems (like Git). It provides an easy way to manage and visualize the repository, branches, and commits.
Workflow and Branching: SVN uses a branch-based workflow, where branches are created to work on specific features or bug fixes. These branches are merged back to the main trunk once the work is completed. SourceTree supports various branching workflows, including both centralized (like SVN) and distributed workflows. It provides a visual representation of branches and makes it easier to create, merge, and switch between branches.
Integration with other tools: SVN integrates well with other software development tools like bug trackers and continuous integration systems. It allows developers to link their commits with specific issues and track their progress. SourceTree also provides integration with popular development tools and services, allowing seamless integration and enhanced workflow.
Graphical User Interface: SVN primarily uses a command-line interface, where developers need to run commands manually to perform various version control operations. SourceTree, on the other hand, provides a user-friendly graphical user interface that simplifies the version control operations. It allows developers to perform operations like commit, merge, and revert through a visual interface, reducing the need for remembering complex commands.
Support for Distributed Version Control Systems: While SVN is a centralized version control system, SourceTree also supports distributed version control systems like Git and Mercurial. It allows developers to work with multiple repositories, collaborate with others, and easily switch between different version control systems.
Platform Compatibility: SVN is available on various platforms including Windows, macOS, and Linux. SourceTree, being a desktop application, is available for both Windows and macOS, providing a consistent experience across different platforms.
In summary, SVN is a centralized version control system with a command-line interface, while SourceTree is a versatile graphical user interface that supports both centralized and distributed version control systems. SourceTree simplifies collaboration, branch management, and integration with other tools, making the version control workflow more efficient.
I explored many Git Desktop tools for the Mac and my final decision was to use Fork. What I love about for that it contains three features, I like about a Git Client tool.
It allows * to handle day to day git operations (least important for me as I am cli junkie) * it helps to investigate the history * most important of all, it has a repo manager which many other tools are missing.
Pros of SourceTree
- Visual history and branch view205
- Beautiful UI164
- Easy repository browsing134
- Gitflow support87
- Interactive stage or discard by hunks or lines75
- Great branch visualization22
- Ui/ux and user-friendliness18
- Best Git Client UI/Features8
- Search commit messages7
- Available for Windows and macOS5
- Log only one file1
- Search file content1
Pros of SVN (Subversion)
- Easy to use20
- Simple code versioning13
- User/Access Management5
- Complicated code versionioning by Subversion3
- Free2
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Cons of SourceTree
- Crashes often12
- So many bugs8
- Fetching is slow sometimes7
- No dark theme (Windows)5
- Extremely slow5
- Very unstable5
- Can't select text in diff (windows)4
- Freezes quite frequently3
- Can't scale window from top corners3
- UI blinking2
- Windows version worse than mac version2
- Installs to AppData folder (windows)2
- Diff makes tab indentation look like spaces2
- Windows and Mac versions are very different2
- Diff appears as if space indented even if its tabs2
- Doesn't have an option for git init2
- Useless for merge conflict resolution2
- Doesn't differentiate submodules from parent repos2
- Requires bitbucket account2
- Generally hard to like1
- No reflog support1
- Bases binary check on filesize1
- Can't add remotes by right clicking remotes (windows)1
Cons of SVN (Subversion)
- Branching and tagging use tons of disk space7
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What is SourceTree?
What is SVN (Subversion)?
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