GitLab CI
Built-in CI/CD with every GitLab repository. Powerful pipelines, self-hosted options, and integrated DevSecOps features.
Overview
GitLab CI is the continuous integration and deployment platform built into GitLab. Introduced in 2015, it uses a .gitlab-ci.yml file in the repository root to define pipelines. GitLab CI is known for its powerful pipeline syntax, built-in container registry, and integrated DevSecOps features (SAST, DAST, dependency scanning, container scanning).
GitLab CI is particularly strong for teams that want an all-in-one platform — source control, CI/CD, security scanning, and monitoring in a single tool. It is also the best choice for teams that need self-hosted CI/CD without the maintenance burden of Jenkins.
What it's used for
GitLab CI is ideal when:
- All-in-one DevOps platform: Source control, CI/CD, security, and monitoring in one tool.
- Self-hosted CI/CD needed: GitLab CE (free) and GitLab EE (paid) can run on-premise.
- Integrated security scanning: Built-in SAST, DAST, dependency scanning, and container scanning.
- Powerful pipeline features: DAG execution, parent-child pipelines, and multi-project pipelines.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Built into GitLab — no separate CI tool needed
- Powerful pipeline syntax with DAG and parallel execution
- Integrated security scanning (SAST, DAST, SCA)
- Self-hosted option with GitLab CE (free)
- Excellent container registry integration
Cons
- Vendor lock-in to GitLab ecosystem
- Can be resource-intensive for self-hosted instances
- Learning curve for advanced pipeline features
- SaaS pricing can be high for large teams
- Some features only available in paid tiers
Platforms & Integrations
GitLab CI runs on GitLab.com (SaaS) or self-hosted GitLab instances. It supports all major platforms and languages.
Pricing
| Tier | Cost | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Free | Free | 400 minutes/mo CI/CD, basic features |
| Premium | $29/user/mo | 10,000 minutes/mo, advanced CI/CD, security scanning |
| Ultimate | $99/user/mo | 50,000 minutes/mo, full DevSecOps, compliance, support |
NZ Context
GitLab CI is popular among NZ teams that prefer self-hosted infrastructure or want an all-in-one platform. Some NZ government agencies use self-hosted GitLab for data sovereignty. For NZ professionals, GitLab CI experience is valuable but less common than GitHub Actions in the startup ecosystem.
Alternatives
- GitHub Actions — Better for GitHub users with larger marketplace ecosystem.
- Jenkins — More customisable but higher maintenance.
- Azure DevOps — Microsoft's integrated alternative with strong enterprise features.