iTerm2 vs Kitty: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between iTerm2 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:
iTerm2
Terminal emulator for macOS
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.9/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You need terminal tools features specifically
- • The definitive terminal replacement for Mac, free and open source
- • Powerful split panes, search, and session management
Kitty
The fast, feature-rich, GPU-based terminal emulator for power users.
Best for you if:
- • 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 |  iTerm2 | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Terminal Tools | Font Tools |
Rating | 89/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | iTerm2 | Kitty |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 89 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Terminal ToolsAutomation | Font ToolsIDE & Code Editors |
How iTerm2 and Kitty Compare
iTerm2
Terminal emulator for macOS
Free · 89/100 score
Kitty
The fast, feature-rich, GPU-based terminal emulator for power users.
Free · 80/100 score
iTerm2 is a terminal tools tool. Kitty is in font tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: iTerm2
Want the highest-rated option?
iTerm2: 89/100. Kitty: 80/100.
Go with: iTerm2
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: iTerm2
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?
iTerm2 is a terminal tools tool. Kitty is in font tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
iTerm2 scores higher: 89/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
iTerm2
- Higher score: 89/100 vs 80
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Kitty
- Better fit for font tools
The Bottom Line
iTerm2 (89/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is iTerm2 or Kitty better?
iTerm2 scores 89/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are iTerm2 and Kitty used for?
iTerm2: Terminal emulator for macOS. Kitty: The fast, feature-rich, GPU-based terminal emulator for power users..
What does iTerm2 cost vs Kitty?
iTerm2 is completely free. Kitty is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.