WezTerm vs iTerm2: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between WezTerm 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 WezTerm if you need a fully free option.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
Based on published vendor pricing and features and on public review data, here's who should pick what:
WezTerm
A GPU-accelerated cross-platform terminal emulator and multiplexer.
Best for you if:
- • You want modern terminal
iTerm2
The macOS terminal replacement for power users
Best for you if:
- • You want free and powerful
| At a Glance | WezTerm | iTerm2 |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Free 100% free | Free 100% free |
Category | Terminal Tools Developer Tools | Terminal Tools Developer Tools |
Rating | n/a | 4.7/5 G2 4.7 51 reviews |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose WezTerm or iTerm2?
Choose WezTerm if
- You want modern terminal
- You want GPU accelerated
Choose iTerm2 if
- You want free and powerful
- You want split panes
In-Depth Analysis
WezTerm
A GPU-accelerated cross-platform terminal emulator and multiplexer.
WezTerm's pricing is exceptionally generous, as it is completely free and open-source.
Strengths
- Pro: Modern terminal
- Pro: GPU accelerated
- Pro: Good features
- Pro: Active development
- Pro: Cross-platform
Weaknesses
- Con: Configuration complex
- Con: Learning curve
- Con: Resource usage
- Con: Feature gaps
- Con: Smaller community
Key features
iTerm2
The macOS terminal replacement for power users
iTerm2 is an incredibly generous offering, being completely free and open-source.
Strengths
- Pro: Free and powerful
- Pro: Split panes
- Pro: Highly customizable
Weaknesses
- Con: macOS only
- Con: Can be overwhelming
Key features
Key Takeaways
iTerm2
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
WezTerm
- Choose if you want a GPU-accelerated cross-platform terminal emulator and multiplexer
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 WezTerm or iTerm2 better in 2026?
iTerm2 wins this matchup. Podman is our overall Terminal Tools pick. Podman is our free Terminal Tools pick. Pick WezTerm for terminal tools workflows (main strength: modern terminal). Pick iTerm2 for terminal tools workflows (main strength: free and powerful).
What are WezTerm and iTerm2 used for?
WezTerm: A GPU-accelerated cross-platform terminal emulator and multiplexer. iTerm2: The macOS terminal replacement for power users.
What does WezTerm cost vs iTerm2?
WezTerm is free. iTerm2 is free.
What's the main difference between WezTerm and iTerm2?
WezTerm's main strength: modern terminal. iTerm2's main strength: free and powerful.