Tilix as a Linux alternative to Windows Terminal
Updated
Our verdict
Tilix is a solid replacement for Windows Terminal if you value tiling workflows and session persistence over traditional tabbing. It handles split panes, Unicode, color, and multiple shells well, and supports GPU acceleration through the underlying VTE widget. The interface is more spatial than tabular, which suits users who organize work in tiled layouts rather than tabs. However, it lacks the exact multi-tab design of Windows Terminal and is GNOME-focused, so users on other desktops may need extra setup. Good for Linux users who want advanced terminal organization.
- License
- GPL-3.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 1.9.6
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Tabbed and split-pane terminal interface
- Supports multiple shells like bash, zsh, and fish
- Full Unicode and truecolor support
- Configurable profiles and keybindings
- GPU-accelerated rendering via VTE
What is different
- Tilix emphasizes tiling over tabbing; panes are primary, tabs optional
- No direct import of Windows Terminal settings
- Session persistence uses JSON but format isn't compatible
- Tighter integration with GNOME Shell than generic desktops
- Built-in terminal multiplexer reduces need for tmux/screen
Opening your Windows Terminal files
Tilix does not support importing Windows Terminal config files (.json) or profiles directly. The configuration formats are entirely different and incompatible. You’ll need to manually recreate profiles, keybindings, and appearance settings. While both use JSON for config, the structure and options don’t map cleanly. Exported Tilix layouts can be shared between Linux systems but won’t work on Windows Terminal.
Switching from Windows Terminal to Tilix, step by step
- Install Tilix via package manager: apt install tilix on Debian/Ubuntu
- Copy your shell environments (bash, zsh, etc.) — they’re already available in Linux
- Manually recreate profiles in Tilix for each shell or remote SSH connection
- Use Tilix’s layout export to save and sync your pane arrangements
- Adjust keybindings in Preferences to match your workflow
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 on non-GNOME desktops?
Yes, Tilix runs on Xfce, KDE, and others, but some features like app indicators may need extra packages.
Does Tilix support vertical tabs like Windows Terminal?
No, Tilix uses a tiling layout; tabs are horizontal and secondary to pane splitting.
Is there a portable version of Tilix like Windows Terminal?
No, Tilix is installed via system package managers and doesn’t offer a portable build.
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