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Rio review

Free#23 of 40 in Terminal Emulators

A flexible cross-platform terminal for users who want GPU backends and graphics support.

7.2/10Editor score
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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.

Rio pros and cons

  • 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

Rio fact sheet, pricing and score →

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