The best open source alternative to iTerm 2 is Alacritty. If that doesn't suit you, we've compiled a ranked list of other open source iTerm 2 alternatives to help you find a suitable replacement. Other interesting open source alternatives to iTerm 2 are: Ghostty, Kitty, and WaveTerm.
iTerm 2 alternatives are mainly Developer Tools. Browse these if you want a narrower list of alternatives or looking for a specific functionality of iTerm 2.
Modern cross-platform terminal emulator with OpenGL acceleration, extensive configuration options, and vi mode support for enhanced productivity.

A modern terminal emulator built for performance and flexibility across Linux, macOS, Windows, and BSD systems. Uses OpenGL acceleration to deliver exceptional speed and responsiveness while maintaining extensive customization capabilities.
Key Features:
Currently in beta stage but already trusted by many developers as their daily terminal. Integrates seamlessly with existing tools rather than reimplementing functionality, ensuring high performance without sacrificing features. Perfect for users who spend significant time in the terminal and want a fast, configurable, and reliable experience.
Looking for open source alternatives to other popular services? Check out other posts in the alternatives series and openalternative.co, a directory of open source software with filters for tags and alternatives for easy browsing and discovery.
Experience blazing-fast terminal performance with GPU acceleration and platform-native UI. Cross-platform compatibility meets modern design.

Ghostty delivers exceptional terminal performance through intelligent GPU acceleration and platform-native UI integration. This modern terminal emulator combines speed with visual excellence, offering a seamless experience across different operating systems.
Key advantages include:
Whether you're a developer, system administrator, or power user, Ghostty provides the responsive terminal experience you need. The combination of hardware acceleration and native UI elements creates a terminal that's both fast and visually appealing, making your command-line work more efficient and enjoyable.
High-performance terminal emulator with GPU acceleration, graphics support, and advanced scripting capabilities for developers and system administrators.

A high-performance terminal emulator designed specifically for users who spend significant time in the command line. Built with cutting-edge technology, it leverages GPU acceleration and SIMD vector CPU instructions to deliver exceptional performance that outpaces traditional terminals.
Key Performance Features:
Advanced Capabilities:
Productivity Tools:
Cross-Platform Compatibility:
The terminal includes innovative features like the graphics protocol for displaying images directly in the terminal, shell integration for enhanced functionality, and broadcast mode for simultaneous input across multiple windows. Perfect for developers, system administrators, and anyone seeking a modern, feature-rich terminal experience.
Enhance your terminal with AI, file previews, and web browsing. Available on MacOS, Linux, and Windows.

Wave Terminal is an innovative, open-source terminal designed to enhance productivity by integrating file previews, editing, AI, web browsing, and workspace organization. Compatible with MacOS, Linux, and Windows, it offers a seamless experience across platforms.
Key Features:
Wave Terminal is perfect for developers seeking a powerful, customizable terminal that integrates modern tools and workflows.