bat vs Kitty: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between bat and Kitty comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
bat
A `cat` command clone with syntax highlighting, Git integration, and more.
Best for you if:
- • You need ide & code editors features specifically
- • Modern `cat` replacement with syntax highlighting.
- • Integrates with Git to show file modifications.
Kitty
The fast, feature-rich, GPU-based terminal emulator for power users.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.0/10 vs 7.8/10)
- • You need font tools features specifically
- • Fast, GPU-accelerated terminal emulator for high performance.
- • Feature-rich with graphics, ligatures, emojis, and advanced window management.
| At a Glance |  bat | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | IDE & Code Editors | Font Tools |
Rating | 78/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | bat | Kitty |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 78 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | IDE & Code EditorsTerminal Tools | Font ToolsIDE & Code Editors |
How bat and Kitty Compare
bat
A `cat` command clone with syntax highlighting, Git integration, and more.
Free · 78/100 score
Kitty
The fast, feature-rich, GPU-based terminal emulator for power users.
Free · 80/100 score
bat is a ide & code editors tool. Kitty is in font tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: bat
Want the highest-rated option?
bat: 78/100. Kitty: 80/100.
Go with: Kitty
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Kitty
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are free. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
bat is a ide & code editors tool. Kitty is in font tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Kitty scores higher: 80/100 vs 78/100.
Key Takeaways
Kitty
- Higher score: 80/100 vs 78
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
bat
- Better fit for ide & code editors
The Bottom Line
Kitty (80/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bat or Kitty better?
Kitty scores 80/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are bat and Kitty used for?
bat: A `cat` command clone with syntax highlighting, Git integration, and more.. Kitty: The fast, feature-rich, GPU-based terminal emulator for power users..
What does bat cost vs Kitty?
bat is completely free. Kitty is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.