LXTerminal

At a glance

• Editor score
  5.8 / 10
• Pricing
  Free plan
• Best for
  Linux users wanting a lightweight basic terminal
• Free plan
  Yes
• Paid from
  Free
• Split panes
  No
• Facts checked
  20 Sep 2026

• Where it wins

  • Free and open-source under the GNU GPL
  • VTE emulation with multiple tabs and tab navigation
  • Command-line controls for shells, commands, and working directories

• Where it doesn't

  • Linux is the only supported platform
  • No split-pane support
  • No built-in SSH or GPU acceleration

Our verdict on LXTerminal

LXTerminal is a lightweight, GTK-based terminal emulator maintained by the LXDE project. It is designed for Linux users who want local shell sessions in a desktop-independent window without a broad application ecosystem. Its VTE-based emulation supports multiple terminal tabs, tab naming and navigation, copy and paste, URL opening, zoom controls, and shared processes for terminal instances. The project is distributed as free, open-source software under the GNU GPL and is primarily documented for Linux distributions such as Debian and Ubuntu.

Its strongest fit is straightforward command-line work. LXTerminal can execute commands, launch login shells, and set a terminal working directory from the command line. That gives Linux users useful control over how sessions open and how tabs are organized, while keeping the feature set centered on local terminal access. The published capabilities also include a scripting API specification, although the product details emphasize command-line controls rather than a larger automation or integration layer. Users seeking a small terminal for shell sessions and tabs should find its scope easy to understand.

LXTerminal is less suitable when terminal workflows depend on split panes, GPU acceleration, SSH functionality, or integrations with other tools. Its Linux-only support also rules it out for users who need the same terminal emulator across multiple operating systems. Choose LXTerminal for a focused, free terminal with tabs and basic session controls; choose an alternative when pane-based layouts, built-in SSH, GPU acceleration, or broader platform support are central requirements.

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LXTerminal pricing

LXTerminal fact sheet

Alternatives to LXTerminal

• TabbyA versatile open-source terminal for power users who automate across systems.9.4
• WTWindows 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

See all LXTerminal alternatives →

Featured on iTechGuides

LXTerminal is listed in our Terminal Emulators directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.

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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update