Guake
Guake: A focused, open-source Linux terminal with tabs, splits, sessions, and shortcut-driven access. Ranked #30 of 40 in Terminal Emulators by our editors (6.3/10); pricing: Free plan; best for linux users wanting a drop-down terminal with sessions.
At a glance
- Editor score6.3 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forLinux users wanting a drop-down terminal with sessions
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Split panesYes
- Founded2007
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Drop-down access with configurable keyboard shortcuts
- Named tabs, splits, resizing, and multi-monitor support
- Startup scripts plus session save and restore
Where it doesn't
- Linux-only availability limits platform choice
- Focused on terminal workflows rather than broad integrations
- GNOME desktop environment is part of its documented scope
Our verdict on Guake
Guake is a Python-based, top-down terminal emulator for the GNOME desktop environment. It is designed for Linux users who want a terminal that can appear or disappear with a configurable keyboard shortcut, rather than remain open as a conventional window. Multiple named tabs, customizable shortcuts, multi-monitor support, and predefined color palettes make it suitable for users managing several terminal contexts. Its open-source distribution also makes it available through Linux distribution repositories, PyPI, and source installation.
Its strongest area is session-oriented terminal workflow. Guake supports terminal splitting and resizing, startup scripts, automatic startup at login, and saving and restoring terminal sessions. These features give users several ways to preserve a working arrangement and return to it later. Quick opening of files and links from terminal output adds a practical navigation feature, while the D-Bus command interface provides a way to control the application through that interface. For users who value keyboard access and a persistent layout, the feature set is focused and coherent.
Guake is a narrow platform choice: its documented availability is Linux, with a GNOME desktop focus. That makes it a natural fit for Linux users who want drop-down access and session management, but less suitable for anyone seeking one terminal emulator across multiple operating systems or a broader ecosystem footprint. There are no paid tiers to compare; Guake is distributed as open-source software. Choose it for a configurable, shortcut-driven Linux terminal with tabs, splits, scripts, and session restoration. Choose an alternative if cross-platform availability or a wider integration scope matters more than these focused terminal features.
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Guake pricing
Guake fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Supported platforms | linux |
| Split panes | Yes |
| Session sync | Not verified |
| GPU acceleration | Not verified |
| Scripting API | Yes |
| SSH support | Not verified |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Linux |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | guake.github.io |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Guake
- TabbyA versatile open-source terminal for power users who automate across systems.9.4
- Windows TerminalA free, open-source Windows terminal with tabs, panes, profiles, and automation.9.3
- iTerm2A capable Mac terminal with advanced panes, profiles, session restoration, and automation.9.2
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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