Best ngrok Alternatives for macOS Developers (2025)

Introduction: Why Developers Are Looking for an ngrok Alternative

For years, ngrok has been the default choice for developers who need to expose their local web server to the internet — whether for testing webhooks, running API demos, or showcasing prototypes to clients.

But as ngrok has evolved into an enterprise-focused platform with subscriptions, rate limits, and complex setup, many independent developers and macOS users are searching for simpler, one-time-purchase alternatives that just work.

That’s where Tunnelwise comes in — a lightweight, native ngrok alternative for macOS built for developers who want to focus on coding, not configuration.

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1. Tunnelwise — The Best ngrok Alternative for macOS

If you’re a macOS developer tired of managing command lines, tokens, and subscription plans just to share your localhost, Tunnelwise is made for you.

Tunnelwise is a native macOS desktop app that lets you securely expose your local server to the internet with one click. No terminal. No YAML configs. No rate limits.

Once you launch the app, Tunnelwise automatically generates a unique, secure URL (or your own custom domain if configured) that anyone can access instantly — perfect for webhook testing, client demos, or API integration validation.

🔧 Key Features

• Native macOS app — built specifically for Apple Silicon and Intel Macs.
• One-click sharing — no command line required.
• One-time purchase — pay once, own it forever.
• Optional annual upgrade plan — get new features as they’re released.
• Custom domain or Tunnelwise link — share instantly with your team or clients.
• Secure and private — your data never leaves your machine unless you share it.

💡 Why Tunnelwise Stands Out

Most ngrok alternatives compete on cloud features, team dashboards, or multi-region tunnels. Tunnelwise focuses on something simpler — a native, seamless experience for solo developers who just need to share localhost right now.

It’s not another CLI tool. It’s a clean, intuitive macOS app designed to make local sharing as easy as dragging and dropping a file.

Get Tunnelwise

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2. LocalXpose

LocalXpose is a popular cross-platform ngrok alternative offering CLI and GUI versions. It focuses on developer collaboration, allowing users to expose multiple services, manage tunnels, and share dashboards.

While powerful, its setup and subscription model are overkill for developers who only need occasional webhook or demo tunnels. Still, it’s a solid choice for those needing more control.

Pros:

• Works on macOS, Linux, and Windows
• Supports authentication and multiple protocols
• Public dashboards and collaboration tools

Cons:

• Requires account setup and subscription
• Interface not native to macOS
• More complex than necessary for simple localhost testing

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3. Pinggy

Pinggy is a lightweight alternative that lets you create public URLs for localhost without signing up. It’s entirely command-line based, appealing to developers comfortable with terminals.

It’s quick, effective, and often used for quick webhook testing — though its free tunnels can be slow, and persistent connections require a paid plan.

Pros:

• No signup required
• Simple CLI usage
• Free tier available

Cons:

• Not macOS-native
• CLI-only (no GUI)
• Tunnels can time out or get throttled

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4. Cloudflare Tunnel (formerly Argo Tunnel)

Cloudflare Tunnel is a robust, production-grade alternative for developers already using Cloudflare’s network. It’s ideal for teams that want to connect internal applications to the internet securely.

While free, it requires a Cloudflare account, domain configuration, and a complex setup — not the best fit for indie macOS developers who just want to test webhooks locally.

Pros:

• Free (within limits) and secure
• Integrated with Cloudflare network
• Great for production services

Cons:

• Complicated setup
• Requires domain configuration
• Not ideal for quick testing or demos

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5. localhost.run

localhost.run is a simple SSH-based tool for exposing local servers. It’s lightweight, free, and doesn’t require installation — but again, it’s command-line only, and not particularly macOS-friendly.

It’s great for quick internal demos or one-off tests but lacks persistence, GUI options, or custom domain support.

Pros:

• Free
• No installation required
• Works via SSH

Cons:

• CLI-only
• No persistence or custom URLs
• Not user-friendly for macOS users

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Comparison Table

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Why macOS Developers Love Tunnelwise

macOS users value polish and simplicity, not just performance. That’s exactly what Tunnelwise delivers — a tool that feels at home on your Mac.

Instead of managing tokens or YAML files, you just open the app, click “▶️ Start,” and share your localhost instantly.

Tunnelwise was designed for developers who:

• Build APIs and need to test webhooks locally.
• Want to demo projects to clients without deploying.
• Prefer GUI tools that integrate naturally into macOS.
• Dislike paying recurring fees for simple use cases.

If that sounds like you, Tunnelwise will save you time — and frustration.

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Optimized for Simplicity, Speed, and Privacy

Unlike most tunneling tools that route traffic through shared servers or require user accounts, Tunnelwise prioritizes privacy and local control.

Your localhost traffic remains yours. The app doesn’t collect usage data — it simply connects your Mac to the outside world securely.

And since it’s built for macOS, it’s optimized for performance on both Intel and Apple Silicon (Mx chips).

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Developer Workflow Example

A common use case for Tunnelwise:

1. Run your local Flask or Node.js app on port 3000 (or any port you prefer).
2. Open Tunnelwise.
3. Create a tunnel for the first time.
4. Click “▶️ Start”
5. Instantly get a public URL like https://myapp.tunnelwise.app.
6. Use that URL to test Stripe webhooks, show a demo to a client, or connect to a mobile app.

No tokens. No limits.

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Final Thoughts: The Best ngrok Alternative for macOS

If you’re a macOS developer looking for a simple, secure, and permanent ngrok alternative, Tunnelwise is the clear winner.

While other tools chase features or team dashboards, Tunnelwise focuses on what indie developers actually need — a fast, reliable, one-click way to share localhost.

It’s built for developers who code on macOS and want a tool that feels native, private, and straightforward.