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iTerm2

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tmux

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iTerm2 vs tmux: What are the differences?

### Introduction
In this Markdown document, we will outline the key differences between iTerm2 and tmux.

1. **Terminal Emulation:** iTerm2 is a full-featured terminal emulation program with a user-friendly interface, while tmux is a terminal multiplexer that allows multiple terminal sessions to be accessed and controlled from a single screen, making it more suitable for managing multiple sessions efficiently.
2. **Window Management:** iTerm2 provides a tabbed interface for managing multiple terminal windows within a single instance, offering more convenience for users who prefer a graphical interface. In contrast, tmux relies on a command-line interface for managing windows and panes, making it more suitable for power users who prefer keyboard shortcuts and automation.
3. **Session Persistence:** iTerm2 does not have built-in session persistence, meaning that terminal sessions are not automatically saved across restarts. On the other hand, tmux offers session persistence, allowing users to disconnect from a session and reconnect to it later, even after a system reboot.
4. **Customization:** iTerm2 offers a wide range of customization options, including themes, font styles, and hotkey configurations, allowing users to personalize their terminal experience extensively. While tmux also supports customization through configuration files, it may require more technical knowledge to set up and modify compared to iTerm2.
5. **Integration:** iTerm2 integrates seamlessly with other macOS features and applications, such as Spotlight search and Siri, enhancing user productivity and workflow. On the contrary, tmux is a standalone terminal multiplexer that does not have direct integration with external applications, focusing solely on managing terminal sessions efficiently.
6. **Platform Support:** iTerm2 is specific to macOS and does not offer native support for other operating systems, limiting its usability for users who prefer a multi-platform solution. In contrast, tmux is cross-platform and can be used on various operating systems, making it more versatile for users who work across different platforms.

In Summary, iTerm2 and tmux differ in their approach to terminal emulation, window management, session persistence, customization, integration, and platform support, catering to different user preferences and needs.
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Pros of iTerm2
Pros of tmux
  • 5
    Themes
  • 2
    Tabs
  • 2
    Reliable, easy and highly customizable

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What is iTerm2?

A replacement for Terminal and the successor to iTerm. It works on Macs with macOS 10.12 or newer. iTerm2 brings the terminal into the modern age with features you never knew you always wanted.

What is tmux?

It enables a number of terminals to be created, accessed, and controlled from a single screen. tmux may be detached from a screen and continue running in the background, then later reattached.

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Jobs that mention iTerm2 and tmux as a desired skillset
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San Francisco, CA, US; Palo Alto, CA, US; Seattle, WA, US
Pinterest
San Francisco, CA, US; Palo Alto, CA, US; Seattle, WA, US
Pinterest
San Francisco, CA, US; Palo Alto, CA, US; Seattle, WA, US
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What are some alternatives to iTerm2 and tmux?
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