imux vs iTerm2
Compare imux vs iTerm2. imux adds AI-native workflows, vertical tabs, visual source control, and browser automation to the terminal experience.
iTerm2 is a veteran macOS terminal emulator known for its stability, deep customization, and broad feature set built up over decades.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | imux | Iterm2 |
|---|---|---|
| GPU Acceleration | ✓ | ✗ |
| Workspaces & Tabs | ✓ | ✓ |
| Split Panes | ✓ | ✓ |
| AI-Native Design | ✓ | ✗ |
| Source Control Integration | ✓ | ✗ |
| Remote File Explorer | ✓ | ✗ |
| Browser Automation | ✓ | ✗ |
| Socket Automation API | ✓ | ✓ |
| Activity Notifications | ✓ | ✓ |
| Session Persistence | ✓ | ✓ |
Why Choose imux?
iTerm2 is a powerful terminal emulator with decades of polish. imux takes a different approach: it's a workspace-first tool where terminals, browsers, file explorers, and AI agents share one window. If you spend your day switching between iTerm2, VS Code, and a browser, imux consolidates that.
- Workspace-centric design instead of a window-per-task model
- AI agent integration — run Claude Code, Codex, and other agents in dedicated panes
- Visual source control sidebar replaces the need for a separate Git client
- Browser automation surfaces alongside terminals in the same window
- Remote file explorer with Keychain-based password management
- Structured session persistence across app restarts and crashes
Switching Guide
imux supports shell integration, custom profiles, and keyboard shortcuts. Migrate your iTerm2 workflows gradually — start with one workspace and add more as you go.
- 1
Install imux alongside iTerm2
Download imux. You can keep iTerm2 installed — they work fine side-by-side while you transition.
- 2
Recreate your profile layout as workspaces
iTerm2 profiles become imux workspaces. Create a workspace for each project or task group you manage.
- 3
Configure shell integration
imux supports shell integration similar to iTerm2. Your custom profiles and keyboard shortcuts can be mapped.
- 4
Try AI agent integration
Open Agent Chat in a workspace. This is the biggest upgrade — AI agents running alongside your terminal sessions.
- 5
Transition gradually
Move one workflow at a time. Keep iTerm2 for legacy tasks and use imux for new AI-assisted workflows.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is imux a replacement for iTerm2?▼
imux can replace iTerm2 for most workflows, especially if you use AI agents, manage multiple projects, or want an integrated file explorer and source control. Some users keep iTerm2 for specific profiles or legacy workflows.
Does imux support iTerm2's shell integration?▼
imux has its own shell integration that provides similar features: working directory tracking, command completion notifications, and shell prompt markers.
What about iTerm2's tmux integration?▼
imux has native split-pane support that replaces the need for tmux integration. You get native macOS performance with the same multiplexing capabilities.
Can I import my iTerm2 color schemes?▼
imux supports standard terminal color schemes. You can configure themes through Ghostty-compatible configuration.