Tabby vs iTerm2: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Tabby and iTerm2 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:
Tabby
A modern, highly configurable terminal emulator for cross-platform use.
Best for you if:
- • Modern, highly customizable terminal emulator.
- • Includes integrated SSH and serial client.
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
| At a Glance |  Tabby |  iTerm2 |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Free | Free |
Best For | Terminal Tools | Terminal Tools |
Rating | - | - |
Choose Tabby or iTerm2?
Choose Tabby if
A modern, highly configurable terminal emulator for cross-platform use.
- Modern terminal
- Good features
- Cross-platform
Choose iTerm2 if
The macOS terminal replacement for power users
- Free and powerful
- Split panes
- Highly customizable
| Feature | Tabby | iTerm2 |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| User Rating | ★3.9/5 13 reviews | ★4.7/5 50 reviews |
| Categories | Terminal ToolsDeveloper Tools | Terminal ToolsDeveloper Tools |
In-Depth Analysis
Tabby
A modern, highly configurable terminal emulator for cross-platform use.
Strengths
- +Modern terminal
- +Good features
- +Cross-platform
- +Active development
- +Open source
Weaknesses
- -Resource usage
- -Learning curve
- -Feature bloat
- -Better alternatives exist
- -Configuration needed
Key features
iTerm2
The macOS terminal replacement for power users
Strengths
- +Free and powerful
- +Split panes
- +Highly customizable
Weaknesses
- -macOS only
- -Can be overwhelming
Key features
Pricing: Tabby vs iTerm2
| Plan | Tabby | iTerm2 |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Tabby | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Tabby pricing and iTerm2 pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Tabby
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Tabby
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
- Higher user rating: 4.7/5 vs 3.9/5
- Larger review base (50 reviews)
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Tabby
- Choose if you want a modern, highly configurable terminal emulator for cross-platform use
The Bottom Line
iTerm2 is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tabby or iTerm2 better?
iTerm2 is rated in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Tabby and iTerm2 used for?
Tabby: A modern, highly configurable terminal emulator for cross-platform use.. iTerm2: The macOS terminal replacement for power users.
What does Tabby cost vs iTerm2?
Tabby is completely free. iTerm2 is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.