iTerm2 vs WezTerm: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between iTerm2 and WezTerm 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:
iTerm2
The macOS terminal replacement for power users
Best for you if:
- • The definitive terminal replacement for Mac, free and open source
- • Powerful split panes, search, and session management
WezTerm
A GPU-accelerated cross-platform terminal emulator and multiplexer.
Best for you if:
- • GPU-accelerated terminal emulator.
- • Cross-platform and open-source.
| At a Glance |  iTerm2 |  WezTerm |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Free | Free |
Best For | Terminal Tools | Terminal Tools |
Rating | - | - |
Choose iTerm2 or WezTerm?
Choose iTerm2 if
The macOS terminal replacement for power users
- Free and powerful
- Split panes
- Highly customizable
Choose WezTerm if
A GPU-accelerated cross-platform terminal emulator and multiplexer.
- Modern terminal
- GPU accelerated
- Good features
| Feature | iTerm2 | WezTerm |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| User Rating | ★4.7/5 50 reviews | No ratings yet |
| Categories | Terminal ToolsDeveloper Tools | Terminal ToolsDeveloper Tools |
In-Depth Analysis
iTerm2
The macOS terminal replacement for power users
Strengths
- +Free and powerful
- +Split panes
- +Highly customizable
Weaknesses
- -macOS only
- -Can be overwhelming
Key features
WezTerm
A GPU-accelerated cross-platform terminal emulator and multiplexer.
Strengths
- +Modern terminal
- +GPU accelerated
- +Good features
- +Active development
- +Cross-platform
Weaknesses
- -Configuration complex
- -Learning curve
- -Resource usage
- -Feature gaps
- -Smaller community
Key features
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: iTerm2
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
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?
Both are terminal tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
iTerm2
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
WezTerm
- Choose if you want a GPU-accelerated cross-platform terminal emulator and multiplexer
The Bottom Line
iTerm2 is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is iTerm2 or WezTerm better?
iTerm2 is rated in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are iTerm2 and WezTerm used for?
iTerm2: The macOS terminal replacement for power users. WezTerm: A GPU-accelerated cross-platform terminal emulator and multiplexer..
What does iTerm2 cost vs WezTerm?
iTerm2 is completely free. WezTerm is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.