Wave Terminal vs Extraterm: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Wave Terminal and Extraterm 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.
Bottom line: Wave Terminal is our overall pick for terminal tools workflows. Pick Extraterm if you need a fully free option.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Wave Terminal
The open-source, AI-native terminal that integrates file management, AI, and web browsing.
Best for you if:
- • Open-source terminal with integrated file management, AI, and web browsing.
- • Manages remote machines with SSH, supports remote file editing, and offers customizable dashboards.
Extraterm
A powerful, open-source terminal emulator with advanced features for command-line users.
Best for you if:
- • Enhances terminal experience with modern features.
- • Includes built-in SSH, image support, and shell integration.
| At a Glance |  Wave Terminal |  Extraterm |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Terminal Tools | Terminal Tools |
Rating | - | - |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose Wave Terminal or Extraterm?
Choose Wave Terminal if
The open-source, AI-native terminal that integrates file management, AI, and web browsing.
- Enhances productivity by integrating multiple tools into one environment
- Open-source and stores all data locally, ensuring privacy and control
- Provides a rich set of features for remote machine management and file editing
Choose Extraterm if
A powerful, open-source terminal emulator with advanced features for command-line users.
- Open source with MIT license
- Feature-rich terminal experience
- Keyboard-friendly design
| Feature | Wave Terminal | Extraterm |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Categories | Terminal ToolsDeveloper Tools | Terminal ToolsDeveloper Tools |
In-Depth Analysis
Wave Terminal
The open-source, AI-native terminal that integrates file management, AI, and web browsing.
Strengths
- +Enhances productivity by integrating multiple tools into one environment
- +Open-source and stores all data locally, ensuring privacy and control
- +Provides a rich set of features for remote machine management and file editing
- +Highly customizable with dashboards, widgets, and themes
- +Cross-platform availability (macOS, Linux, Windows)
Weaknesses
- -Being in beta, it might have occasional bugs or incomplete features
- -The extensive feature set might have a learning curve for new users
- -Reliance on community support for an open-source project
Key features
Extraterm
A powerful, open-source terminal emulator with advanced features for command-line users.
Strengths
- +Open source with MIT license
- +Feature-rich terminal experience
- +Keyboard-friendly design
- +Cross-platform support (Linux, macOS, Windows)
- +Shell integration for enhanced workflows
Weaknesses
- -Currently in steady development, not yet 1.0 release
- -Occasional bugs may be present
- -Some features only in older Electron version (as noted on features page)
Key features
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Wave Terminal
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has ratings yet.
Too early to call on ratings — compare on features and pricing.
Value user reviews?
Neither has ratings yet.
Too early to call — neither has ratings yet.
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 ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
Wave Terminal
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Extraterm
- Choose if you want a powerful, open-source terminal emulator with advanced features for command-line users
The Bottom Line
Wave Terminal is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wave Terminal or Extraterm better?
Wave Terminal is rated in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Wave Terminal and Extraterm used for?
Wave Terminal: The open-source, AI-native terminal that integrates file management, AI, and web browsing.. Extraterm: A powerful, open-source terminal emulator with advanced features for command-line users..
What does Wave Terminal cost vs Extraterm?
Wave Terminal is completely free. Extraterm is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.