A modern, color-coded ls replacement with Git integration
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Reviews onG2
2 reviews trackedThe Bottom Line
Entry price
Free, no paid tier
Biggest pro
AI search API
Biggest con
Newer platform
TL;DR - exa
- AI-powered terminal with natural language
- Search files and run commands with plain English
- Privacy-focused local processing
Pricing: Free forever
Best for: Individuals & startups
What is exa?
exa is a modern replacement for the ls command, written in Rust. Color-coded output makes file types instantly visible. Git integration shows file status at a glance. Tree view displays directory structure beautifully. Extended attributes, icons, and human-readable sizes included. The ls command reimagined for developers who live in the terminal and appreciate good design.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- AI search API
- Good for semantic search
- Active development
- Good features
- Fair pricing
Cons
- Newer platform
- Learning curve
- Feature gaps
- Per-query pricing
- Still maturing
Ratings Across the Web
4.3(2 reviews)
Ratings aggregated from independent review platforms. Learn more
Key Features
Modern ls replacementColor outputGit statusTree viewIcons supportExtended attributes
Pricing Plans
Pricing checked Jul 8, 2026
Free
Free
- Modern ls replacement
- Git integration
- Colors and icons
- Tree view
- MIT license
- Open source
Reviews
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exa FAQ
How does exa improve upon the traditional ls command?
exa enhances the traditional ls command by providing color-coded output for instant file type recognition and integrating Git status directly into file listings. It also offers a tree view for directory structures, displays extended attributes, and uses human-readable file sizes.
Which teams would benefit most from using exa?
exa is ideal for developers and technical teams who frequently work within the terminal and value clear, organized file management. Its features like Git integration and color-coded output streamline workflows for those who 'live in the terminal'.
How is exa priced?
exa is free to use, meaning there is no paid plan required to access its features. Users can leverage its capabilities without any associated costs.
Can exa display the status of Git-managed files?
Yes, exa includes Git integration that shows the status of files at a glance. This allows users to quickly see changes within their version-controlled directories directly from the terminal output.
What kind of trade-offs should users consider when adopting exa?
Users should be aware that exa is a newer platform that is still maturing, which may present a learning curve for some. It might also have certain feature gaps compared to more established tools.
How does exa compare to Oh My Zsh for terminal enhancements?
exa specifically replaces and enhances the 'ls' command with features like color-coding and Git integration, focusing on file listing and directory navigation. Oh My Zsh, in contrast, is a framework for managing Zsh configuration, themes, and plugins, offering broader shell customization rather than a direct 'ls' replacement.
Does exa support displaying directory structures in a tree format?
Yes, exa can display directory structures in a beautiful tree view. This feature helps users visualize the hierarchical organization of their files and folders.
Source: the.exa.website