WezTerm review
A deep, programmable terminal for developers who need panes, remote sessions, and graphics support.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
WezTerm is an open-source terminal emulator and multiplexer for developers and system administrators. It runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux, combining GPU-accelerated rendering with tabs, split panes, searchable scrollback, shell integration, hyperlinks, and configurable appearance. Its scope extends beyond local command-line work through an embedded SSH client, serial-port connections, image protocols, and local or remote multiplexing. That makes it a strong fit for people who move between development environments, remote hosts, and persistent terminal sessions.
The standout area is its programmable, remote-aware feature set. WezTerm uses Lua 5.4 as its configuration language, giving technically inclined users a way to shape terminal behavior and appearance through code. The embedded SSH client provides native tabs, while multiplexing supports local and remote sessions, including connections over SSH and TLS. Support for iTerm2, Kitty, and Sixel graphics protocols also gives the terminal broader capabilities than a basic text-only window. These features make it particularly suitable for developers and system administrators who want one configurable tool across desktop and remote workflows.
WezTerm is available under an open-source model, with pre-built releases available to download and the option to build from source; no paid plans are advertised. The trade-off is breadth: users who only need a simple terminal window may find its multiplexer, remote-session, graphics, and Lua configuration features unnecessary. It is the better choice for technically minded users who value control and cross-platform consistency, while those seeking a minimal interface or an assistant-focused terminal should look elsewhere.
WezTerm pros and cons
- Where it wins
- GPU rendering, tabs, split panes, and searchable scrollback
- Embedded SSH with local and remote multiplexing
- Lua configuration plus iTerm2, Kitty, and Sixel graphics support
- Where it doesn't
- Its broad configuration surface may exceed basic terminal needs
- Lua scripting adds setup work for users who prefer point-and-click settings
- No AI features for assisted terminal workflows
WezTerm fact sheet, pricing and score →
Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.
Last updated · How we research and update