LDoc
LDoc: A focused, open-source generator for Lua API docs, with Markdown and CI support. Ranked #30 of 38 in Documentation Generators by our editors (6.3/10); pricing: Free plan; best for lua teams generating API docs from source comments.
At a glance
- Editor score6.3 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forLua teams generating API docs from source comments
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Source inputsLua source files, C/C++ extension source, Markdown documents and readme files, source examples
- Facts checked23 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Generates HTML API references from Lua comments and C extension source
- Combines API docs with Markdown pages, readmes, and source examples
- Runs in Docker or GitHub Actions for documentation builds
Where it doesn't
- Language support centers on Lua and C/C++ extension source
- HTML is the listed output format
- Command-line workflow may not suit teams seeking a hosted documentation service
Our verdict on LDoc
LDoc turns Lua source comments into HTML API documentation, and it can also process C/C++ extension source. Its LuaDoc-style tags cover API elements such as modules, functions, parameters, and return values. That makes it a focused option for teams maintaining Lua libraries or applications that need reference material kept alongside code. It is open source and available for self-hosted use, with command-line operation rather than a hosted subscription product. Teams documenting a broader mix of programming languages should look at a generator with wider language coverage.
The documentation can combine API references with Markdown-formatted comments, documentation topics, readme files, and source examples. LDoc can prettify example code and link examples to API documentation, so projects can bring explanatory material and reference pages together in the generated site. The output format listed is HTML, which suits teams publishing browsable documentation but is limiting if a project needs other generated formats. Its center of gravity remains API documentation from Lua and extension sources rather than a general-purpose documentation platform.
For build workflows, LDoc can run in Docker or through a GitHub Actions workflow, and CI/CD integration is supported. That gives teams a route to generate docs as part of a code workflow without relying on a hosted service. The listed support channel is documentation, so organizations that need a broader support arrangement may want to evaluate alternatives. LDoc fits solo contributors through larger organizations when the core requirement is Lua-focused API reference generation; it is less suitable for teams seeking a multi-language generator, non-HTML output, or a managed documentation service.
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LDoc pricing
LDoc fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Source inputs | Lua source files, C/C++ extension source, Markdown documents and readme files, source examples |
| API reference generation | Yes |
| Versioned documentation | Not verified |
| CI/CD integration | Yes |
| Output formats | HTML |
| Programming languages | Lua, C/C++ extension source |
| Deployment | Self-hosted |
| Platforms | Linux, Windows, macOS |
| Support | Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 2 integrations: GitHub Actions, Docker |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | github.com |
| Facts checked | 23 Sep 2026 |
LDoc integrations
LDoc lists 2 integrations on its own site.
- GitHub Actions
- Docker
Alternatives to LDoc
- SphinxA broad, extensible choice for teams building technical documentation from source files.9.4
- MkDocsA free, open-source choice for building focused Markdown documentation sites.9.2
- DoxygenA free, open-source choice for generating multi-language API documentation locally.9.0
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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