ripgrep vs exa: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between ripgrep and exa 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:
ripgrep
A line-oriented search tool that recursively searches directories for regex patterns.
Best for you if:
- • You need ide & code editors features specifically
- • Recursively searches directories for regex patterns.
- • Respects .gitignore and skips hidden/binary files by default.
exa
Modern replacement for ls
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (7.3/10 vs 7.0/10)
- • You need terminal tools features specifically
- • AI-powered terminal with natural language
- • Search files and run commands with plain English
| At a Glance |  ripgrep |  exa |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | IDE & Code Editors | Terminal Tools |
Rating | 70/100 | 73/100 |
| Feature | ripgrep | exa |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 70 | 73 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | IDE & Code EditorsDebugging | Terminal ToolsFile Management |
How ripgrep and exa Compare
ripgrep
A line-oriented search tool that recursively searches directories for regex patterns.
Free · 70/100 score
exa
Modern replacement for ls
Free · 73/100 score
ripgrep is a ide & code editors tool. exa is in terminal tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: ripgrep
Want the highest-rated option?
ripgrep: 70/100. exa: 73/100.
Go with: exa
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: exa
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?
ripgrep is a ide & code editors tool. exa is in terminal tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
exa scores higher: 73/100 vs 70/100.
Key Takeaways
exa
- Higher score: 73/100 vs 70
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
ripgrep
- Better fit for ide & code editors
The Bottom Line
exa (73/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ripgrep or exa better?
exa scores 73/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are ripgrep and exa used for?
ripgrep: A line-oriented search tool that recursively searches directories for regex patterns.. exa: Modern replacement for ls.
What does ripgrep cost vs exa?
ripgrep is completely free. exa is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.