iTerm2 vs Warp: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between iTerm2 and Warp 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 8.6/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • The definitive terminal replacement for Mac, free and open source
- • Powerful split panes, search, and session management
Warp
Modern terminal with AI
Best for you if:
- • Modern terminal rebuilt in Rust with IDE-like features
- • Block-based output with AI-powered command suggestions
| At a Glance |  iTerm2 |  Warp |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Terminal Tools | Terminal Tools |
Rating | 89/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | iTerm2 | Warp |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 89 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Terminal ToolsAutomation | Terminal ToolsAI Coding |
How iTerm2 and Warp Compare
iTerm2
Terminal emulator for macOS
Free · 89/100 score
Warp
Modern terminal with AI
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
iTerm2 is free. Warp is freemium.
Go with: iTerm2
Want the highest-rated option?
iTerm2: 89/100. Warp: 86/100.
Go with: iTerm2
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: iTerm2
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
iTerm2 is free. Warp is freemium. Go with iTerm2 if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are terminal tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
iTerm2 scores higher: 89/100 vs 86/100.
Key Takeaways
iTerm2
- Higher score: 89/100 vs 86
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Warp
The Bottom Line
iTerm2 (89/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is iTerm2 or Warp better?
iTerm2 scores 89/100 in our evaluation. iTerm2 is free and Warp is freemium.
What are iTerm2 and Warp used for?
iTerm2: Terminal emulator for macOS. Warp: Modern terminal with AI.
What does iTerm2 cost vs Warp?
iTerm2 is completely free. Warp is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.