DockZ is an application for managing Docker and Linux virtual machines for Mac with Apple Silicon chips, written in SwiftUI on the built-in Virtualization.framework of macOS. The entire app is only about 8 MB, with a download size of 3.5 MB.

Problem Solved

Docker on Mac always runs in a Linux virtual machine. Docker Desktop does this, but the app is very heavy and requires a fee when used in larger companies. Colima is lightweight and free but only has a command line. OrbStack is lightweight, has a GUI, but charges for commercial use. DockZ combines all three: lightweight, has a GUI, and is free for both individuals and businesses.

Main Features

• Native Docker Engine running in a tiny Alpine virtual machine; docker, docker compose, buildx work just like before, and the container's ports automatically open on localhost.

• Dashboard for managing containers, images, volumes, networks, registries, and compose stacks; errored containers and failed health checks are marked, with filters and search available on all lists.

• Monitor Tab: CPU, RAM, network, and disk of each container in real-time, clean up unused images and volumes.

• Manage Docker on other servers via SSH or TLS; the TLS key is created in the Secure Enclave chip of the Mac and used with Touch ID.

• Linux virtual machines (Alpine, Debian, Ubuntu), build a multi-node k3s Kubernetes cluster with a single click, instant snapshot of the virtual machine's disk.

Who Should Use It

Developers and DevOps using M1 or later Mac chips, running Docker daily, wanting to ditch Docker Desktop due to its heaviness or licensing costs; those who need to manage additional Docker on servers from Mac; those learning Kubernetes needing a k3s cluster running immediately on their machine.

Getting Started

Platform: macOS 15 or later, Apple Silicon chips. Download the DockZ.dmg file from the Releases section on GitHub and drag it into Applications, or install it via Homebrew. The release has not been notarized by Apple, so the first time you open it, go to System Settings → Privacy & Security → Open Anyway. The first run of DockZ automatically builds the virtual machine and installs Docker CLI, after which you can use the docker command.

Differences

Different from Docker Desktop: nearly 200 times smaller, native instead of Electron, free for businesses. Different from Colima: has a full GUI. Different from OrbStack: fully open-source (Apache-2.0), no charges. Additionally, it includes features that few apps have: TLS key in Secure Enclave, virtual machines automatically restart when frozen, multi-node k3s clusters.