Side by side
Terminology vs xterm
Both stand on terminal emulators. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Linux
Choose Terminology if you use Linux and want a free terminal with flexible session layouts, customization, and inline media previews. Look elsewhere if you need a listed platform beyond Linux or want ODF previews without LibreOffice.
Visit Terminology Free plan LinuxMacWindows
xterm offers broad terminal emulation, remote display and configuration options across the listed desktop platforms. Readers should account for its documented color limitations and lack of split panes.
Visit xtermThe facts
| Terminology | xterm | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux | Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | enlightenment.org | invisible-island.net |
| On terminal emulators | #32 of 40 | #28 of 40 |
Terminology: what it does well
- Free, open-source terminal emulator.
- Tabs and resizable, nestable horizontal or vertical panes.
- Themes, backgrounds, fonts, sizing, colors, and shortcut settings.
- Inline previews for images, SVG, PDF, and PostScript.
- Detects file paths, URLs, and email addresses.
What to know first
- Available platform listed is Linux.
- ODF previews require LibreOffice to be installed.
- Operating-system packages are provided by distributions and individuals.
xterm: what it does well
- Free plan listed as free
- Emulates several DEC terminal standards and Tektronix 4014
- Remote windows can display locally over X protocol
- Supports SSH and scripting
- Source and archive downloads are available
What to know first
- Split panes are not supported
- FAQ notes color issues, including monochrome fallback
- Resizing notifications depend on operating-system support
Alternatives to Terminology Alternatives to xterm The whole list