Skip to content
delta logo

A syntax-highlighting pager for git, diff, and grep output.

Visit Website
Reviews onG2Capterra
18 reviews tracked

The Bottom Line

Entry price

Free, no paid tier

Biggest pro

Beautiful git diffs

Biggest con

Terminal only

TL;DR - delta

  • Enhances git, diff, and grep output with syntax highlighting.
  • Offers extensive customization for diff layout and styling.
  • Improves efficiency and enjoyment of code review and search tasks.
Pricing: Free forever
Best for: Individuals & startups
4.2/5 across review platforms

What is delta?

Editorial review
Delta is a command-line tool designed to enhance the readability and user experience of `git`, `diff`, and `grep` output. It acts as a pager, similar to `less`, but with advanced syntax highlighting and layout customization capabilities. This allows developers to more efficiently study code changes and search results. The tool is ideal for developers, engineers, and anyone who regularly works with version control systems and command-line tools. It aims to make the process of reviewing code differences and `grep` output more enjoyable and efficient by providing extensive control over styling, including line numbers and side-by-side views, while also allowing users to maintain a look close to the default output if preferred.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Beautiful git diffs
  • Syntax highlighting
  • Side-by-side view
  • Customizable
  • Fast and free

Cons

  • Terminal only
  • Setup required
  • Learning curve
  • Config complexity
  • Not for everyone

Ratings Across the Web

4.2(18 reviews)

Ratings aggregated from independent review platforms. Learn more

Key Features

Git diff viewerSyntax highlightingSide-by-side diffLine numbersTheme supportGit integration

Pricing Plans

Pricing checked Jul 7, 2026

Free

Free

  • Syntax highlighting for diffs
  • Side-by-side view
  • Line numbers
  • Git integration
  • MIT license
  • Open source

Reviews

Improve Your Thinking Patterns Using ChatGPT cover
$99Free with your review

Review delta, get a free AI guide

Share your experience and we will send you Improve Your Thinking Patterns Using ChatGPT, free.

Write a review
4.2/5

Across 18 verified user reviews on Capterra, G2

Add your hands-on experience using the offer above to help the next buyer.

Best delta Alternatives

Top alternatives based on features, pricing, and user needs.

Most buyers shortlist 2 or 3 tools before committing. Pull a side-by-side comparison or browse the full alternatives shortlist below.

Explore More

delta FAQ

How does delta improve the experience of reviewing code changes?

Delta enhances the readability of git and diff output by providing advanced syntax highlighting and layout customization. This allows developers to more efficiently study code changes with features like side-by-side views and line numbers.

Which teams would benefit most from using delta?

Delta is ideal for developers, engineers, and anyone who regularly works with version control systems and command-line tools. It helps make the process of reviewing code differences and grep output more enjoyable and efficient.

How is delta priced?

Delta is free to use, with no paid plans required. It is designed to be a fast and accessible tool for enhancing terminal output.

Can delta display `grep` search results with syntax highlighting?

Yes, delta acts as a pager for grep output, similar to less, but with advanced syntax highlighting capabilities. This helps users more efficiently review search results directly in their terminal.

What kind of limitations should users be aware of when considering delta?

Delta is a terminal-only tool, which means it operates exclusively within the command-line environment. Users should also anticipate a setup process and a learning curve due to its configuration complexity.

How does delta compare to a tool like Oh My Zsh?

Delta specifically focuses on enhancing the readability and user experience of git, diff, and grep output through advanced syntax highlighting and layout. Oh My Zsh, in contrast, is a framework for managing Zsh configurations, themes, and plugins, offering broader shell customization rather than specific output formatting.

Guides & Articles