GNOME Terminal review

Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

GNOME Terminal is a Linux terminal emulator for the GNOME desktop, providing a graphical interface for accessing a UNIX shell and running local programs. It is aimed at Linux users who want a configurable desktop terminal with familiar controls rather than a specialized workflow tool. Terminal tabs, copy and paste, fullscreen mode, saved output, login shells, text search, and custom colors and fonts cover everyday terminal work. Multiple profiles let users organize different commands, shells, appearance settings, remote computers, and GNU Screen sessions.

Its strongest fit is the Linux desktop and its surrounding command-line ecosystem. The application supports SSH profile configuration for remote computers and GNU Screen session profiles, giving users a way to keep local, remote, and session-based terminal workflows organized. Distribution through Linux vendors and source repositories supports straightforward access, while the open-source licensing model keeps the product available without a paid tier. GNOME Terminal was founded in 1997, and it has official documentation and an active source repository. GNOME 42 introduced Console as a new default terminal application, but GNOME Terminal remains a distinct option for users who want its profile and session features.

GNOME Terminal is a sensible pick for Linux users who value established terminal controls, profile customization, SSH access, and GNU Screen integration without subscription costs. It is less suitable for users who need a terminal across multiple operating systems or expect panes, GPU acceleration, or scripting APIs. Those requirements point toward another terminal emulator. For a focused GNOME desktop terminal with tabs, profiles, shell customization, and standard text operations, GNOME Terminal keeps the feature set practical and easy to understand.

GNOME Terminal pros and cons

• Where it wins
  • Free and open source, with Linux distribution and source repository availability
  • Tabs, configurable profiles, custom shells, colors, fonts, and text search
  • Supports SSH profiles and GNU Screen session profiles
• Where it doesn't
  • Linux-only availability limits cross-platform use
  • Not suited to users seeking panes or GPU acceleration
  • No scripting APIs are listed among its capabilities

GNOME Terminal fact sheet, pricing and score →

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Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update