Tot vs iTerm2: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Tot 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:
Tot
Your tiny text companion for Apple devices.
Best for you if:
- • You need note-taking features specifically
- • Collect and edit text across Mac, iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch.
- • Seamlessly syncs text via iCloud for ubiquitous access.
iTerm2
The macOS terminal replacement for power users
Best for you if:
- • You need terminal tools features specifically
- • The definitive terminal replacement for Mac, free and open source
- • Powerful split panes, search, and session management
| At a Glance |  Tot |  iTerm2 |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Note-Taking | Terminal Tools |
Rating | - | 4.7/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose Tot or iTerm2?
Choose Tot if
Your tiny text companion for Apple devices.
- Seamless synchronization across Apple devices.
- Minimalist and intuitive user interface.
- Supports both rich text and Markdown.
- Your work is note-taking-shaped, not terminal tools-shaped
Choose iTerm2 if
The macOS terminal replacement for power users
- Free and powerful
- Split panes
- Highly customizable
- Your work is terminal tools-shaped, not note-taking-shaped
| Feature | Tot | iTerm2 |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.7/5 50 reviews |
| Categories | Note-TakingWriting Apps | Terminal ToolsDeveloper Tools |
In-Depth Analysis
Tot
Your tiny text companion for Apple devices.
Strengths
- +Seamless synchronization across Apple devices.
- +Minimalist and intuitive user interface.
- +Supports both rich text and Markdown.
- +Useful for quick notes and scratchpad functionality.
- +Automatic backups provide data safety.
Weaknesses
- -Primarily focused on Apple ecosystem, limiting cross-platform use.
- -May be too simple for complex document editing needs.
- -Some features are premium, requiring payment.
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: Tot vs iTerm2
| Plan | Tot | iTerm2 |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Tot pricing and iTerm2 pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Tot
Want the highest-rated option?
iTerm2 is rated 4.7/5. Tot has no ratings yet.
Go with: iTerm2
Value user reviews?
Tot: no ratings yet. iTerm2: 50 reviews (4.7/5).
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?
Tot is a note-taking tool. iTerm2 is in terminal tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
iTerm2 is rated 4.7/5; Tot has no ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
iTerm2
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Tot
- Better fit for note-taking
The Bottom Line
iTerm2 is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tot or iTerm2 better?
iTerm2 is rated in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Tot and iTerm2 used for?
Tot: Your tiny text companion for Apple devices.. iTerm2: The macOS terminal replacement for power users.
What does Tot cost vs iTerm2?
Tot is completely free. iTerm2 is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.