Tilix as a Linux alternative to MobaXterm
Updated
Our verdict
Tilix is a solid terminal replacement for users who primarily need SSH and local command-line access. It offers excellent tiling, session persistence, and drag-and-drop pane management, which covers MobaXterm's core terminal workflow. However, it lacks a built-in X server, RDP/VNC clients, and a bundled Unix toolset. If your MobaXterm usage relies heavily on remote GUI apps or Windows-specific integrations, Tilix is insufficient. It is best for developers who want a powerful, scriptable terminal on Linux and are comfortable using separate tools for remote desktops.
- License
- GPL-3.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 1.9.6
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Supports SSH and SFTP connections directly from the interface
- Provides tabbed and split-pane terminal views
- Allows saving and restoring session layouts
- Includes terminal multiplexer capabilities
What is different
- No built-in X server for running remote GUI applications
- Lacks native RDP and VNC client support
- Does not bundle Unix utilities like grep or rsync
- Session management is JSON-based rather than a centralized profile manager
Opening your MobaXterm files
Tilix does not natively import MobaXterm session files (.mxt) or its internal profile database. You will need to manually recreate your SSH hosts, port forwards, and environment variables in Tilix's configuration. While you can export MobaXterm sessions to text, there is no direct converter to Tilix's JSON format, so expect to copy-paste connection details individually.
Switching from MobaXterm to Tilix, step by step
- Install Tilix via your package manager (e.g., apt, dnf, zypper)
- Export your MobaXterm session list to a text file for reference
- Create new SSH profiles in Tilix using the saved host details
- Configure keybindings to match your preferred shortcuts
- Set up a tiling layout that mirrors your common MobaXterm workspace
- Test remote connections to verify authentication and port forwarding
Key features of Tilix
- Tiling panes (vertical/horizontal)
- Drag‑and‑drop rearrangement
- Session persistence via JSON
- Customizable keybindings
- Drop‑in support for SSH, SFTP
- Export/import layouts
- Built‑in terminal multiplexer
- Integration with GNOME Shell
How to install Tilix on Linux
sudo apt install tilixsudo apt install tilixsudo dnf install tilixsudo zypper install tilixFrequently asked questions
Can Tilix run remote GUI apps like MobaXterm does?
No, Tilix does not include an X server. You must use a separate X server like Xming or VcXsrv if you are on Windows, or rely on local X11/Wayland forwarding if you are already on Linux.
Does Tilix have built-in tools like rsync or grep?
No, Tilix is a terminal emulator, not a suite. You must install these utilities separately via your Linux distribution's package manager.
Is Tilix suitable for RDP connections?
No, Tilix does not support RDP. You will need to use a dedicated client like Remmina or FreeRDP for remote desktop sessions.
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