hexyl is a command-line utility for viewing a file’s bytes in a terminal. It displays hexadecimal values alongside character information and uses color to distinguish byte categories, making it easier to scan a file’s contents without editing it.
What hexyl does
The hexyl project describes the program as “A command-line hex viewer.” It is for inspecting a file’s byte representation in a terminal—not a graphical editor and not a tool for changing file contents. See the official hexyl repository for the project overview and examples.
In a hex view, each byte is shown as a hexadecimal value, with character information alongside it. hexyl’s colors help visually separate NULL bytes, printable ASCII characters, ASCII whitespace, other ASCII characters, and non-ASCII bytes. This can make patterns and unusual values easier to spot while examining binary or text files.
How to install hexyl
The project documents installation through package repositories and release binaries, but the available package and exact command depend on your operating system and distribution. Start with the official README for its installation guidance. If you use a release binary, check the official releases page for a build that matches your platform. The available information does not establish a complete current platform-support list or a specific latest version.
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Package metadata identifies hexyl as licensed under MIT/Apache-2.0. Consult the repository’s license files for the applicable terms: official Cargo.toml metadata.
How to view a file in hexadecimal in the terminal
After installing hexyl, use the command examples in the official README or the manual page provided by your system. For Debian trixie, the hexyl(1) manual page documents command usage. Follow the syntax shown for your installed version and provide the path to the file you want to inspect.
Rank #2
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Options and color configuration can vary by version. Consult the manual or run the command’s built-in help for the version you installed before relying on a particular flag or environment variable. The project documents command options and environment-based color configuration, but the exact current flags should be checked against that version.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to check when choosing a hex viewer
If you are deciding whether hexyl fits your workflow—or comparing it with another terminal hex viewer—focus on the details that affect your inspection task:
Recommended Free Tools
Rank #3
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- Byte readability: whether the color categories make the values you need to inspect easy to distinguish.
- Color controls: whether its configuration suits your terminal and preferences.
- Command-line behavior: whether its interface and output work with your workflow.
- Platform availability: whether a package or suitable release binary is available for your operating system.
- Inspection features: whether the tool supports the specific operations you need.
Verify these points in the primary documentation for each tool; the project information cited here does not establish a detailed comparison with competing viewers.
Quick Recap
Best Value
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