Wave Terminal vs iTerm2: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Wave Terminal 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.
Bottom line: iTerm2 wins this matchup. Podman is our overall Terminal Tools pick. Podman is our free Terminal Tools pick. Pick Wave Terminal 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:
- • You want enhances productivity by integrating multiple tools into one environment
- • You want open-source and stores all data locally, ensuring privacy and control
iTerm2
The macOS terminal replacement for power users
Best for you if:
- • You want free and powerful
- • You want split panes
| At a Glance | Wave Terminal | iTerm2 |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Terminal Tools | Terminal Tools |
Rating | - | 4.7/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose Wave Terminal or iTerm2?
Choose Wave Terminal if
The open-source, AI-native terminal that integrates file management, AI, and web browsing.
- You want enhances productivity by integrating multiple tools into one environment
- You want open-source and stores all data locally, ensuring privacy and control
Choose iTerm2 if
The macOS terminal replacement for power users
- You want free and powerful
- You want split panes
| Feature | Wave Terminal | iTerm2 |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.7/5 51 reviews |
| 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
iTerm2
The macOS terminal replacement for power users
iTerm2 is an incredibly generous offering, being completely free and open-source.
Strengths
- +Free and powerful
- +Split panes
- +Highly customizable
Weaknesses
- -macOS only
- -Can be overwhelming
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?
iTerm2 is rated 4.7/5. Wave Terminal has no ratings yet.
Go with: iTerm2
Value user reviews?
Wave Terminal: no ratings yet. iTerm2: 51 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?
Both are terminal tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
iTerm2 is rated 4.7/5; Wave Terminal has no ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
iTerm2
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Wave Terminal
- Choose if you want the open-source, AI-native terminal that integrates file management, AI, and web browsing
The Bottom Line
iTerm2 wins this matchup. Podman is our overall Terminal Tools pick. Podman is our free Terminal Tools pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wave Terminal or iTerm2 better?
iTerm2 is rated in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Wave Terminal and iTerm2 used for?
Wave Terminal: The open-source, AI-native terminal that integrates file management, AI, and web browsing.. iTerm2: The macOS terminal replacement for power users.
What does Wave Terminal cost vs iTerm2?
Wave Terminal is completely free. iTerm2 is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.