htop vs Btop: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between htop and Btop 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:
htop
An interactive, cross-platform process viewer for console and X terminals.
Best for you if:
- • Interactive process viewer for system monitoring.
- • Cross-platform support for various Unix-like systems.
Btop
A fast and comprehensive resource monitor for Linux, macOS, and FreeBSD.
Best for you if:
- • Real-time system resource monitoring in the terminal.
- • Provides detailed CPU, memory, disk, network, and process statistics.
| At a Glance |  htop |  Btop |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Terminal Tools | Terminal Tools |
Rating | - | - |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose htop or Btop?
Choose htop if
An interactive, cross-platform process viewer for console and X terminals.
- More user-friendly and interactive than 'top'
- Provides a clear visual overview of system resources
- Supports a wide range of operating systems
Choose Btop if
A fast and comprehensive resource monitor for Linux, macOS, and FreeBSD.
- Visually appealing and interactive terminal interface
- Comprehensive resource monitoring capabilities
- Supports multiple operating systems
| Feature | htop | Btop |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Categories | Terminal ToolsDeveloper Tools | Terminal ToolsDeveloper Tools |
In-Depth Analysis
htop
An interactive, cross-platform process viewer for console and X terminals.
Strengths
- +More user-friendly and interactive than 'top'
- +Provides a clear visual overview of system resources
- +Supports a wide range of operating systems
- +Allows direct process manipulation
- +Open-source and free to use
Weaknesses
- -Requires ncurses library
- -Primarily a command-line tool, may not appeal to GUI-only users
Key features
Btop
A fast and comprehensive resource monitor for Linux, macOS, and FreeBSD.
Strengths
- +Visually appealing and interactive terminal interface
- +Comprehensive resource monitoring capabilities
- +Supports multiple operating systems
- +Includes GPU monitoring on Linux
- +Highly customizable with themes and configuration options
Weaknesses
- -Requires compilation for some advanced features like GPU monitoring on certain platforms
- -No official binaries for FreeBSD provided yet (as of last update)
- -AI-generated PRs are subject to strict guidelines and potential dismissal
Key features
Pricing: htop vs Btop
| Plan | htop | Btop |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | N/A | Free Open Source |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on htop pricing and Btop pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: htop
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has ratings yet.
Too early to call on ratings — compare on features and pricing.
Value user reviews?
Neither has ratings yet.
Too early to call — neither has ratings yet.
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 ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
Btop
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
htop
- Choose if you want an interactive, cross-platform process viewer for console and X terminals
The Bottom Line
Btop is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is htop or Btop better?
Btop is rated in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are htop and Btop used for?
htop: An interactive, cross-platform process viewer for console and X terminals.. Btop: A fast and comprehensive resource monitor for Linux, macOS, and FreeBSD..
What does htop cost vs Btop?
htop is completely free. Btop is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.