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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
WezTerm
A GPU-accelerated cross-platform terminal emulator and multiplexer.
Best for you if:
- • GPU-accelerated terminal emulator.
- • Cross-platform and open-source.
iTerm2
The macOS terminal replacement for power users
Best for you if:
- • The definitive terminal replacement for Mac, free and open source
- • Powerful split panes, search, and session management
| At a Glance |  WezTerm |  iTerm2 |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Free | Free |
Best For | Terminal Tools | Terminal Tools |
Rating | - | - |
Choose WezTerm or iTerm2?
Choose WezTerm if
A GPU-accelerated cross-platform terminal emulator and multiplexer.
- Modern terminal
- GPU accelerated
- Good features
Choose iTerm2 if
The macOS terminal replacement for power users
- Free and powerful
- Split panes
- Highly customizable
| Feature | WezTerm | iTerm2 |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.7/5 50 reviews |
| Categories | Terminal ToolsDeveloper Tools | Terminal ToolsDeveloper Tools |
In-Depth Analysis
WezTerm
A GPU-accelerated cross-platform terminal emulator and multiplexer.
Strengths
- +Modern terminal
- +GPU accelerated
- +Good features
- +Active development
- +Cross-platform
Weaknesses
- -Configuration complex
- -Learning curve
- -Resource usage
- -Feature gaps
- -Smaller community
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
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: WezTerm
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: WezTerm
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
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?
Neither has user reviews yet.
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 is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is WezTerm or iTerm2 better?
iTerm2 is rated in our evaluation. Both are free.
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 completely free. iTerm2 is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.