Rio

Free#23 of 40 in Terminal Emulators

Rio: A flexible cross-platform terminal for users who want GPU backends and graphics support. Ranked #23 of 40 in Terminal Emulators by our editors (7.2/10); pricing: Free plan; best for cross-platform users wanting graphics and GPU backends.

7.2/10★★★★☆Editor score

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At a glance

• Editor score
  7.2 / 10
• Pricing
  Free plan
• Best for
  Cross-platform users wanting graphics and GPU backends
• Free plan
  Yes
• Paid from
  Free
• Split panes
  Yes
• Facts checked
  20 Sep 2026

• Where it wins

  • GPU rendering through Metal, Vulkan, and WebGPU backends
  • Split panels, multiple windows, and tab navigation
  • Supports iTerm2, Kitty, and Sixel graphics protocols

• Where it doesn't

  • Remote-access capabilities are not a central documented focus
  • Session synchronization across devices is not part of its documented scope
  • Advanced configuration may require command-line or source-based workflows

Our verdict on Rio

Rio is an open-source terminal emulator for developers and other command-line users across macOS, Windows, Linux, and the web through its WebAssembly target. Its feature set covers split terminal panels, multiple windows, tab navigation, shell integration through OSC 7 working-directory reporting, adaptive themes, Vi mode, terminal hints, and command-line configuration. It is a strong fit for people who want one terminal project across desktop systems while keeping rendering and graphics options open.

GPU rendering is Rio’s standout area. Users can select Metal, Vulkan, or WebGPU backends, while support for iTerm2, Kitty, and Sixel graphics protocols extends the terminal beyond text-focused workflows. RetroArch shader filters add another visual customization layer, and adaptive light and dark themes help it fit different desktop preferences. These capabilities make Rio particularly suitable for developers and command-line users who value graphics support, configurable rendering, and a modern panel-and-tab layout.

Rio is distributed as open-source software, with downloadable installers, package-manager options, source builds, and stable or nightly releases. Its command-line execution and configuration commands will appeal to users comfortable managing terminal settings directly. The published feature set is more focused on local terminal behavior, rendering, and navigation than on remote access or cross-device session workflows. Choose Rio if GPU backends, graphics protocols, Vi mode, and cross-platform availability are priorities; consider a different terminal when SSH-centered workflows or synchronized sessions are the main requirement.

Your product? Our editors can test Rio in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →

Rio pricing

Rio fact sheet

Alternatives to Rio

• 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 Rio alternatives →

Featured on iTechGuides

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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