MirBSD Korn Shell (mksh)
MirBSD Korn Shell (mksh): A focused Korn-compatible shell for interactive work and scripting across Unix-like systems. Ranked #17 of 27 in Command-Line Shells by our editors (7.1/10); pricing: Free plan; best for android and Unix-like systems needing Korn compatibility.
At a glance
- Editor score7.1 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forAndroid and Unix-like systems needing Korn compatibility
- Free planYes
- Paid fromNone
- Facts checked28 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Supports interactive command-line use and shell scripting
- Available for Linux, macOS, and Android
- Open source and included in Android platform sources
Where it doesn't
- Distributed as source code for building
- Focused on Korn-compatible shell use rather than a broader toolset
- Requires a self-hosted environment
Our verdict on MirBSD Korn Shell (mksh)
MirBSD Korn Shell (mksh) is a free, open-source command-line shell maintained by the MirOS Project. It is intended for people who want a Korn-compatible environment for interactive command-line work or shell scripting, particularly across Linux, macOS, and Android. Its fit spans individual use through enterprise environments, but its core purpose remains the shell itself rather than a wider development suite.
The main distinction is compatibility and portability. mksh is described as an enhanced version of the Public Domain Korn shell, with KornShell (ksh) as its scripting language. The project provides source code for building it, and it is included in Android platform sources, giving it a notable place in Android-oriented environments as well as Unix-like systems. That makes it relevant where existing shell scripts or workflows call for Korn compatibility. It is distributed under the MirOS Licence.
Deployment is self-hosted, and the published feature set centers on the shell, source distribution, interactive use, and scripting. That focused scope suits people comfortable building or obtaining shell software through their environment; it may be a less direct choice for someone seeking a graphical interface or a broader set of packaged developer tools. Choose mksh when Korn compatibility and use on Android or Unix-like systems are priorities. Consider another shell if your needs depend on capabilities beyond the functions described here.
MirBSD Korn Shell (mksh) pricing
MirBSD Korn Shell (mksh) fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | None |
| Supported platforms | Linux, macOS, Android |
| Scripting language | KornShell (ksh) |
| Package manager | No |
| Config file support | Not verified |
| Command completion | Not verified |
| Deployment | Self-hosted |
| Platforms | Linux, macOS, Android |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | mirbsd.org |
| Facts checked | 28 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to MirBSD Korn Shell (mksh)
- BashA free, open-source shell for interactive command-line work and scripting.9.3
- ZshA free, customizable shell for users who want advanced command-line control.8.8
- FishFish pairs history-based suggestions with rich completion and a browser-based configuration interface.8.7
See all MirBSD Korn Shell (mksh) alternatives →
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The editor score above is our own research. What this page doesn't have yet is a reader's view — what you used MirBSD Korn Shell (mksh) for, what worked and what didn't. No stars are seeded and no review is paid for; an editor reads every one before it appears.
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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