Hilbish review
A free, open-source shell for Lua users who want flexible input modes and customization.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Hilbish is an open-source interactive command-line shell configured and scripted in Lua. Its hybrid input lets users combine Lua and shell commands, while separate shell-only, Lua-only, and custom runner modes offer other ways to handle commands. Customizable prompts and keybindings, aliases, and background-job notifications round out its shell features. It is aimed at solo users and small teams, particularly Lua users who want a configurable shell across Linux, macOS, and Windows.
Hilbish’s main distinction is how deeply Lua is part of the shell experience: it is used for configuration and scripting, and the shell supports LuaRocks and pure-Lua libraries. That makes it a natural fit for users who want Lua in their command-line workflow, rather than only a way to customize appearance or keybindings. Its interactive features include contextual tab completion with grid and list layouts, syntax highlighting, history search, Vim mode, and a visual history menu. Users seeking a shell centered on a different scripting language may find this focus less suitable.
Installation options include official binaries, Linux package repositories, and compiling from source; documentation covers Linux, macOS, and Windows. However, the project warns that Windows functionality may be incomplete in recent versions, so Windows users should weigh that caveat before choosing it. Support is through documentation and the community. Hilbish is a good fit for Lua users willing to configure their shell and consult community resources; those who need a more complete Windows experience or prefer a different scripting environment should consider another shell.
Hilbish pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Combines Lua and shell input, with hybrid, shell-only, Lua-only, and custom runners.
- Offers contextual completion, syntax highlighting, history search, and Vim mode.
- Runs on Linux, macOS, and Windows and supports LuaRocks and pure-Lua libraries.
- Where it doesn't
- Windows functionality may be incomplete in recent versions.
- Lua configuration may not suit users who prefer another scripting language.
- Support is through documentation and the community.
Hilbish fact sheet, pricing and score →
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