Last updated: March 2026
Use this page to create, switch, lock, and remove Git worktrees in GitKraken Desktop when you need multiple branches checked out at the same time. Worktrees keep separate working directories while sharing the same repository history, which makes them useful for parallel feature work, testing, and review workflows.
Requirements and limits
- GitKraken Desktop version: Worktrees are supported in version 10.5.0 and later
- Worktree model: Each worktree has its own working directory and index but shares repository history with the main repo
- Change visibility: Once committed, changes made in one worktree become visible in other worktrees
- Lock behavior: Locking a worktree prevents accidental changes while you work elsewhere
- Removal behavior: Removing a worktree detaches that working directory from the repo via the Left Panel workflow
- Best fit: Use worktrees when you need multiple branches checked out simultaneously instead of repeatedly switching one working directory
| Action | What it does | Affects shared history | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Create worktree | Creates another working directory for a branch | No | Requires GitKraken Desktop 10.5.0 or later |
| Open worktree | Switches you into that working directory | No | Available from the Left Panel |
| Lock worktree | Prevents accidental changes to that worktree | No | Useful when working elsewhere temporarily |
| Remove worktree | Detaches that working directory from the repository | No | Removes the worktree entry, not shared history |
| Commit in a worktree | Records history from that worktree | Yes | Committed changes become visible across all worktrees |
Quick Start
To create a worktree:
- Right-click a branch in the Repository View.
- Select Create worktree.
To switch between worktrees: Right-click a worktree in the Left Panel and choose Open this worktree, or check out the corresponding branch from the Repository View.
To remove a worktree: Right-click it in the Left Panel and select Remove this worktree.
To lock or unlock a worktree: Right-click the worktree and choose Lock this worktree or Unlock this worktree. Locking prevents accidental changes while you work in another worktree.
Worktrees share Git history with the main repository. Changes committed in one worktree are visible in others. Hover over a worktree in the Left Panel to see its full file path. Worktrees are supported in GitKraken Desktop 10.5.0 and later.
What Git worktrees are
A Git worktree is a linked working copy of your repository. Each worktree:
- Has its own working directory and index
- Shares Git history with the main repository
- Lets you keep different branches checked out simultaneously
Worktrees are useful when you want to:
- Work on multiple features or fixes without switching branches
- Build or test alternate versions of your code
- Experiment safely while keeping your main branch clean
- Review pull requests without halting other work
Once committed, changes in one worktree become visible in others.
How to use worktrees in GitKraken Desktop
GitKraken Desktop has supported worktrees since version 10.5.0. From the Left Panel, you can:
- Create and switch between worktrees
- Remove or lock/unlock worktrees
- Hover over a worktree to see its full file path
How to create a worktree
To create a worktree:
- Right-click a branch in the Repository View
- Select Create worktree
How to switch worktrees
To switch to another worktree:
- Right-click the desired worktree in the Left Panel and choose Open this worktree
- Or check out the corresponding branch from the Repository View
How to remove a worktree
To remove a worktree:
- Right-click it in the Left Panel
- Select Remove this worktree
How to lock or unlock a worktree
To change lock status:
- Right-click the worktree and choose Lock this worktree or Unlock this worktree
Locking a worktree prevents accidental changes while you work elsewhere.
