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Dory review

Free#12 of 40 in Container Development Environments

A free, integrated Docker and Kubernetes workspace for Apple Silicon Macs.

8.0/10Editor score
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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.

Dory pros and cons

  • 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

Dory fact sheet, pricing and score →

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