dhex review
A focused, free hex editor for terminal-based binary comparison and editing.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
dhex is a terminal-based hex editor for inspecting and editing binary files on Linux and macOS. Its central distinction is a binary diff mode, making it suitable for developers and technical users who need to compare files while working at hexadecimal and ASCII levels. The application also includes bookmarks for file addresses, forward and backward searching, and a 64-bit hexadecimal calculator. As free software distributed under the GNU General Public License, it fits users who want an open-source editor without a paid plan.
For comparison and investigation, dhex offers a focused set of tools rather than a broad extension ecosystem. Binary-file correlation algorithms support diff-oriented analysis, while search-log writing and reading can preserve or revisit search work. Bookmarks provide a way to return to relevant file addresses, and configurable keyboard and color themes allow adjustment of the terminal interface. These features make the product a practical choice for file inspection workflows centered on navigation, searching, and comparison.
The trade-off is scope. dhex does not include structure templates, scripting, plugin support, or disk editing, so users who need format-aware interpretation, automation, extensibility, or direct disk-level work should choose a different hex editor. Its terminal and ncurses design also suits users comfortable with a keyboard-driven interface more than those seeking a graphical workflow. Pick dhex when free and open-source binary editing with integrated diff capabilities is the priority; look elsewhere when advanced customization or broader editing modes matter more.
dhex pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Binary diff mode compares two files directly
- Search logs, bookmarks, and forward/backward search support inspection
- Free, open-source terminal application with configurable themes
- Where it doesn't
- No structure templates for interpreting binary formats
- No scripting or plugin support for extending workflows
- No disk editing capability
dhex fact sheet, pricing and score →
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