What is the main difference between iTerm 2 and WezTerm?

iTerm 2 and WezTerm are both terminal emulators but differ in their approach, features, and target audience. Compare their GitHub stats, technology stack, and community adoption to make the best choice.

Which is better: iTerm 2 or WezTerm?

The choice between iTerm 2 and WezTerm depends on your specific needs, technical requirements, and team preferences. Both are quality open source solutions with active communities.

Can I migrate from iTerm 2 to WezTerm?

Migration between iTerm 2 and WezTerm is possible but requires careful planning. Consider data export/import capabilities, feature parity, and potential workflow changes.

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iTerm 2 vs WezTerm

Learn how iTerm 2 and WezTerm differ in their key features, development activity, technology stack and community adoption, so you can decide which of these terminal emulators is best for you.

iTerm 2

Feature-rich terminal replacement for macOS with split panes, search, autocomplete, and extensive customization options for enhanced productivity.

Visit iTerm 2 Read more

Stars
17,697
Forks
1,406
Last commit
8 hours ago
Repository age
15 years
License
GPL-2.0

Activity score

93/100

View Repository

WezTerm

Cross-platform terminal emulator and multiplexer with GPU acceleration, true color support, and Lua configuration. Runs on Linux, macOS, Windows, FreeBSD, and NetBSD.

Visit WezTerm Read more

Stars
26,647
Forks
1,500
Last commit
8 hours ago
Repository age
8 years

Activity score

94/100

View Repository

Detailed Comparison

Both iTerm 2 and WezTerm have their unique strengths and serve similar purposes effectively. Consider your specific needs regarding popularity, activity, technology, maturity, licensing and features when making your decision.

WezTerm wins

Community & Popularity

WezTerm leads in popularity with 26,647 stars vs 17,697 stars for iTerm 2. The 51% higher star count indicates stronger community adoption. In terms of developer contributions, WezTerm has 1,500 forks, indicating strong developer engagement.

Comparable

Development Activity

Both projects show recent activity, with iTerm 2 last updated 8 hours ago and WezTerm 8 hours ago.

Comparable

Technology Stack

Both tools share common technology foundations, being built with JavaScript, CSS, Bash, Python, C, Objective-C. However, they differ in their additional technology choices: iTerm 2 uses Ruby, C++, Swift, MATLAB while WezTerm leverages Rust, GLSL.

iTerm 2 wins

Project Maturity

iTerm 2 has been in development longer, starting 15 years ago, compared to WezTerm which began 8 years ago. This 6.9-year head start suggests iTerm 2 may have more mature features and established processes.

iTerm 2 wins

Licensing

iTerm 2 is licensed under GPL-2.0, while WezTerm's license terms are not publicly specified.

Comparable

Use Cases & Features

Both tools serve similar use cases in Terminal Emulators. However, they also have distinct specializations: WezTerm extends into Terminal Multiplexers.

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