Kitty vs Fontself: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Kitty and Fontself 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:
Kitty
The fast, feature-rich, GPU-based terminal emulator for power users.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.0/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • You need terminal tools features specifically
- • Fast, GPU-accelerated terminal emulator for high performance.
- • Feature-rich with graphics, ligatures, emojis, and advanced window management.
Fontself
The easiest way to create custom fonts directly from your design software or iPad.
Best for you if:
- • You need font tools features specifically
- • Create custom OpenType fonts from your designs.
- • Available as an iPad app and desktop extension for Illustrator/Photoshop.
| At a Glance |  Fontself | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Terminal Tools | Font Tools |
Rating | 80/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Kitty | Fontself |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 80 | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Terminal ToolsFont Tools | Font ToolsGraphic Design |
Understanding the Differences
Both Kitty and Fontself solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Kitty positions itself as "the fast, feature-rich, gpu-based terminal emulator for power users." while Fontselffocuses on "the easiest way to create custom fonts directly from your design software or ipad.". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Kitty
Kitty makes sense if you're looking for a completely free solution. With a score of 80/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Fontself
Fontself is worth considering if you need a professional-grade tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Kitty lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Kitty
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Kitty handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Kitty
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Fontself takes enterprise seriously.
We'd pick: Fontself
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Nothing at all? Kitty is completely free.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Kitty higher (80/100). But the community has upvoted Fontself more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Kitty Does Better
- Higher overall score (80/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Fontself If
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Kitty (80/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Kitty scores higher in our analysis, but Fontself might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kitty or Fontself better?
Based on our analysis, Kitty scores higher with 80/100. Kitty isfree while Fontself is paid. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Kitty to Fontself easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Kitty and Fontself offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Kitty is completely free.Fontself is paid with potential trial. Visit their websites for current trial offers.