Side by side
Cool Retro Term vs Tabby
Both stand on terminal apps. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Open source LinuxMacSelf-hosted
Cool Retro Term pairs a terminal emulator with configurable CRT-inspired appearance options. Check its system-specific installation guidance if you plan to build it yourself.
Visit Cool Retro Term
Free plan LinuxMacWindows
Tabby brings several connection types, SSH tools, and flexible pane layouts into a free FOSS terminal. Readers who need dedicated support terms should note that none are stated.
Visit TabbyThe facts
| Cool Retro Term | Tabby | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Self-hosted | Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | github.com | tabby.sh |
| On terminal apps | #1 of 41 | #2 of 41 |
Cool Retro Term: what it does well
- Customizable colors, fonts and visual effects.
- Community themes include scanlines, curvature and static noise.
- Release notes list multiple tabs and windows.
- Available as a Linux AppImage and macOS DMG.
- Open-source and free.
What to know first
- Available platforms are Linux and macOS.
- Build requirements differ between the README and Linux build wiki.
Tabby: what it does well
- Supports Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Connects to local shells, serial, SSH, and Telnet.
- SSH sessions support SFTP and Zmodem transfers.
- Remembers tabs and split panes after leaving.
- Offers encrypted SSH storage and optional password manager.
What to know first
- No dedicated support terms are stated.
- Password manager is optional and requires a master passphrase.
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