Wave Terminal vs Mentat: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Wave Terminal and Mentat 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 March 22, 2026 · Methodology
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:
- 0
- • Open-source terminal with integrated file management, AI, and web browsing.
- • Manages remote machines with SSH, supports remote file editing, and offers customizable dashboards.
Mentat
AI coding assistant for terminal
Best for you if:
- 0
- • Mentat is an AI coding assistant that works within your terminal
- • It edits code across files using GPT-4 with context awareness
| At a Glance |  Wave Terminal |  Mentat |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | IDE & Code Editors | IDE & Code Editors |
Rating | — | — |
| Feature | Wave Terminal | Mentat |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | IDE & Code EditorsTerminal Tools | IDE & Code EditorsTerminal Tools |
How Wave Terminal and Mentat Compare
Wave Terminal
The open-source, AI-native terminal that integrates file management, AI, and web browsing.
Free
Mentat
AI coding assistant for terminal
Free
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 user reviews yet.
Go with: Wave Terminal
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Wave Terminal
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 ide & code editors tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Wave Terminal
- 0
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Mentat
The Bottom Line
Wave Terminal is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wave Terminal or Mentat better?
Wave Terminal is rated high in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Wave Terminal and Mentat used for?
Wave Terminal: The open-source, AI-native terminal that integrates file management, AI, and web browsing.. Mentat: AI coding assistant for terminal.
What does Wave Terminal cost vs Mentat?
Wave Terminal is completely free. Mentat is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.