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ELinks review

Free#62 of 145 in Web Browsers

A protocol-rich terminal browser for users who value control over visual polish.

4.2/10Editor score
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Sep 2026

ELinks is an open-source, text-mode web browser for Unix-like desktop environments, with Linux listed as its platform. It is aimed at terminal users, administrators and technically inclined readers who prefer keyboard-driven navigation and broad protocol support over a conventional graphical interface. The browser renders HTML tables and frames, supports color, and includes tabs, cookies, history, configurable MIME handling and bookmarks. Its GPL version 2 licensing also makes it suitable for users who want an openly developed browser that can be inspected and adapted.

Its strongest distinction is breadth beyond standard web protocols. ELinks supports HTTP, HTTPS and FTP, along with Gopher, SMB, NNTP, BitTorrent and finger. Background downloads help separate retrieval tasks from active browsing, while hierarchical bookmarks and XBEL support provide organization for saved destinations. Lua, JavaScript and other scripting hooks extend the browser for users who need automation or customization. This combination makes ELinks more than a minimal page reader, particularly for terminal workflows and protocol-specific browsing.

The trade-off is its narrow platform and interaction model. Linux-only desktop coverage excludes users looking for a browser across multiple desktop operating systems, and terminal operation will not suit people who expect image-rich layouts, mouse-led controls or a standard graphical browser experience. ELinks also does not present a stated modern privacy or synchronization feature set, so users prioritizing those capabilities should consider an alternative. The currently maintained continuation is the rkd77/elinks fork, while the original project history reflects a change in ongoing development.

ELinks pros and cons

  • Where it wins
    • Supports HTTP, HTTPS, FTP, Gopher, SMB, NNTP and more
    • Includes tabs, background downloads and hierarchical bookmarks
    • Offers Lua, JavaScript and other scripting hooks
  • Where it doesn't
    • Linux-only platform coverage limits desktop availability
    • Terminal-first navigation is not suited to visual-first browsing
    • No stated modern privacy or synchronization feature set

ELinks fact sheet, pricing and score →

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