delta vs exa: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between delta and exa 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
delta
A syntax-highlighting pager for git, diff, and grep output.
Best for you if:
- • Enhances git, diff, and grep output with syntax highlighting.
- • Offers extensive customization for diff layout and styling.
exa
A modern, color-coded ls replacement with Git integration
Best for you if:
- • AI-powered terminal with natural language
- • Search files and run commands with plain English
| At a Glance |  delta |  exa |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Free | Free |
Best For | Terminal Tools | Terminal Tools |
Rating | - | - |
Choose delta or exa?
Choose delta if
A syntax-highlighting pager for git, diff, and grep output.
- Beautiful git diffs
- Syntax highlighting
- Side-by-side view
Choose exa if
A modern, color-coded ls replacement with Git integration
- AI search API
- Good for semantic search
- Active development
| Feature | delta | exa |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| User Rating | ★4.2/5 18 reviews | No ratings yet |
| Categories | Terminal ToolsDeveloper Tools | Terminal ToolsDeveloper Tools |
In-Depth Analysis
delta
A syntax-highlighting pager for git, diff, and grep output.
Strengths
- +Beautiful git diffs
- +Syntax highlighting
- +Side-by-side view
- +Customizable
- +Fast and free
Weaknesses
- -Terminal only
- -Setup required
- -Learning curve
- -Config complexity
- -Not for everyone
Key features
exa
A modern, color-coded ls replacement with Git integration
Strengths
- +AI search API
- +Good for semantic search
- +Active development
- +Good features
- +Fair pricing
Weaknesses
- -Newer platform
- -Learning curve
- -Feature gaps
- -Per-query pricing
- -Still maturing
Key features
Pricing: delta vs exa
| Plan | delta | exa |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | Free Free |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on delta pricing and exa pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: delta
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: delta
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: delta
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?
Both are terminal tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
delta
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
exa
- Choose if you want a modern, color-coded ls replacement with Git integration
The Bottom Line
delta is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is delta or exa better?
delta is rated in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are delta and exa used for?
delta: A syntax-highlighting pager for git, diff, and grep output.. exa: A modern, color-coded ls replacement with Git integration.
What does delta cost vs exa?
delta is completely free. exa is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.