Zellij
A terminal workspace with batteries included
Last updated: February 2025
Quick Verdict
The best terminal multiplexer for developers who want power without the tmux learning curve. The WASM plugin system makes it uniquely extensible.
What is Zellij?
Zellij is a modern terminal multiplexer written in Rust, designed as an intuitive alternative to tmux and GNU screen. It features a discoverable UI with a context-aware status bar, WebAssembly plugin system, floating and stacked panes, real multiplayer collaboration, and pre-defined layouts. Unlike tmux's steep learning curve, Zellij works out of the box with sensible defaults.
Our Impression
"Zellij is what tmux would be if it were designed today. The discoverable UI with keybinding hints in the status bar eliminates the biggest pain point of terminal multiplexers. The WebAssembly plugin system is genuinely innovative and opens up extensibility possibilities that tmux configs can only dream of."
— Giga Engineer Editorial Team
Key Features
Pros
- Dramatically easier learning curve than tmux
- Works perfectly out of the box with no configuration
- WebAssembly plugin system is unique and powerful
- Multiplayer collaboration with minimal lag
- Modern, clean interface
Cons
- Known memory issues on macOS with some tools
- Plugin ecosystem still early-stage
- Keyboard binding conflicts with common shell shortcuts
Who Should Use Zellij?
- Developers frustrated by tmux's steep learning curve
- Terminal users who want multiplexing without memorizing keybindings
- Teams needing real-time collaborative terminal sessions
- Developers who want a plugin-extensible terminal workspace
Zellij Alternatives
Looking for alternatives to Zellij? Consider these options: