Dory
Dory: A free, integrated Docker and Kubernetes workspace for Apple Silicon Macs. Ranked #12 of 40 in Container Development Environments by our editors (8.0/10); pricing: Free plan; best for integrated macOS Docker and Kubernetes workflows.
At a glance
- Editor score8.0 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forIntegrated macOS Docker and Kubernetes workflows
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Local KubernetesYes
- Facts checked22 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Native Docker engine, CLI, API, and Compose v2 workflows
- Local k3s Kubernetes with configurable Linux virtual machines
- Migration tools, HTTPS domains, Dev Containers, and MCP control
Where it doesn't
- Supports macOS 14 or later on Apple Silicon only
- Unavailable for Windows, Linux hosts, and Intel Macs
- No paid tiers or broader desktop-platform coverage
Our verdict on Dory
Dory is an open-source local development environment for Apple Silicon Macs running macOS 14 or later. It brings together a native Docker engine, CLI, and API with Docker Compose v2, local Kubernetes through k3s, Linux virtual machines, container storage, networking, and a SwiftUI desktop application. The product is aimed at developers who want Docker and Kubernetes workflows in one local environment rather than separate desktop tools. It also includes a versioned CLI, JSON contracts, and a local MCP control server for agent automation.
Its ecosystem fit is a central strength. Dory works with Docker CLI and API, Compose, Buildx, BuildKit, kubectl, Testcontainers, and Dev Containers, giving existing container workflows a direct path into the environment. Migration support covers Docker Desktop, OrbStack, Colima, Rancher Desktop, and Podman. Local custom domains with HTTPS, configurable CPU and memory for Linux virtual machines, and management of images, volumes, networks, and bind mounts extend the environment beyond a basic container runtime.
Dory’s pricing is straightforward: the official repository identifies it as free GPL-3.0 software, with no paid plan structure described. That makes it suitable for individuals and teams comfortable with open-source tooling and local infrastructure. The main trade-off is platform scope. Dory is designed for macOS 14 or later on Apple Silicon; Windows, Linux hosts, and Intel Macs are not supported. Choose Dory for an integrated Mac-based Docker and Kubernetes setup with migration and automation features. Choose another product if cross-platform desktop support or Intel Mac compatibility is essential.
Your product? Our editors can test Dory in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →
Dory pricing
Dory fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Desktop platforms | macOS |
| Local Kubernetes | Yes |
| Compose workflows | Yes |
| Cluster mode | Not verified |
| IDE integration | Not verified |
| Resource controls | Yes |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | macOS |
| Support | Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 6 integrations: Docker API, Docker Desktop, OrbStack, Colima, Rancher Desktop, Podman |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | usedory.dev |
| Facts checked | 22 Sep 2026 |
Dory integrations
Dory lists 6 integrations on its own site.
- Docker API
- Docker Desktop
- OrbStack
- Colima
- Rancher Desktop
- Podman
Alternatives to Dory
- Docker DesktopA broad desktop container workspace with Docker Engine, Compose, Kubernetes, and team plans.9.4
- Orca DesktopA free, open-source workspace for containers, Compose, Kubernetes, images, and hosts.9.2
- Podman DesktopA free, cross-platform desktop workspace for Podman-centered container and Kubernetes development.9.0
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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