I’ll admit it: I’m not a hardcore command-line junkie.
I’m not out here writing complex scripts to automate my entire life, and I definitely don’t juggle multiple remote servers daily. But as a tech enthusiast (and a marketer who loves exploring new tools), I spent a good chunk of time evaluating the best terminal emulator software. I dug deep into hundreds of G2 reviews to see which ones actually stand out for everyday users like me
I wasn’t searching for the most complex, feature-packed tools built solely for tech wizards. My goal was simple: to find terminal emulators that make life easier—whether you're a seasoned pro or just someone who wants the command line to behave (and look cool while doing it).
And here’s what I discovered: Terminal emulators are a lot like coffee orders—there’s something for everyone, and once you find your perfect match, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. Whether you’re a developer, a sysadmin, or just a curious explorer like me, this list is packed with insights and G2 user reviews.
* These terminal emulators are top-rated in their category, according to G2 Grid Reports. These tools offer free and paid plans. Pricing is available on request.
Let’s dive into the wonderful, slightly intimidating, but surprisingly awesome world of terminal emulators.
Before I started my evaluation, a terminal emulator sounded like something only tech geniuses and developers would care about. Spoiler alert: it’s not.
If you’re like me and spend part of your time on a command line interface (whether for work, troubleshooting, or just to feel techy), a terminal emulator is basically your window into that world.
Think of it as the translator between you and your operating system. It’s where you type commands to get things done—like running programs, managing files, or even controlling remote servers. The “emulator” part means it mimics old-school terminals but with all the modern bells and whistles.
Evaluating terminal emulators as someone who isn’t a command-line guru was a ride. I focused on features like split panes, themes, and shortcuts, looking at how these show up in user reviews. I also paid close attention to how easy each tool is to set up, especially for users who don’t want to wade through dense documentation just to get going.
I wanted to go beyond surface-level impressions, so I dug into G2 Grid reports, used AI to scour user reviews, and checked out what real people said about their experiences. G2's insights helped me understand which tools were leaders in terms of usability, features, and customer satisfaction.
I also consulted a professional with hands-on experience and validated their insights using verified G2 reviews. The screenshots featured in this article may be a mix of those obtained from the vendor’s G2 page and publicly available material.
When evaluating terminal emulators, I didn’t want to be swayed by flashy features or polished themes. Instead, I focused on practical elements that consistently affect everyday use, prioritizing what real users emphasize in their feedback over surface-level appeal.
Considering all these factors—alongside user reviews and my research—I narrowed down the 6 best terminal emulators out of 12+ solutions that strike the right balance between power, usability, and good old-fashioned convenience.
The list below contains genuine user reviews from the best terminal emulator category page. To be included in this category, a solution must:
*This data was pulled from G2 in 2025. Some reviews may have been edited for clarity.
Based on user feedback Rocket Terminal Emulator, bucks the stereotype of being overly complex or intimidating. While some terminal tools expect deep technical know-how, reviewers consistently describe Rocket as refreshingly straightforward. From installation to initial setup, many users mention a clean experience, free from cryptic errors, dependency nightmares, or overwhelming config files. It’s the kind of setup that even casual users say they can manage without breaking a sweat.
Visually, Rocket Terminal Emulator gets a lot of love for its modern interface. Unlike some terminals that still feel stuck in the ‘90s, reviewers on G2 frequently highlight Rocket’s polished look and clean UI. The tab management experience stands out as well—users appreciate being able to switch between sessions smoothly, with drag-and-drop functionality that makes multitasking much easier.
Autocomplete is another feature that gets high marks. Many reviewers mention how helpful it is for guiding them through commands without being overly intrusive. It strikes a balance between being supportive and staying out of the way—especially helpful for folks who aren’t living in the terminal all day.
The quick-command palette is another crowd favorite. It allows users to store and reuse common commands with a shortcut, reducing repetitive typing and minimizing mistakes. Rocket also supports session persistence, which means users can close the terminal and come back to exactly where they left off—a small but powerful win for anyone who’s ever lost their workflow due to a reboot or update.
That said, resource usage does come up in a few reviews. Users running multiple panes simultaneously have reported spikes in RAM usage. While this isn’t flagged as a major issue for casual users, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re planning to run heavier, multitask-oriented workloads.
While Rocket covers the basics well, it doesn’t offer as many integrations with dev tools, cloud platforms, or productivity boosters. Some G2 reviewers have also mentioned missing features like Git status indicators or secure shell (SSH) profiles that some other emulators offer out of the box.
“RTE offers two editions, Desktop and Web. Fully featured emulation with extensive protocol support, robust automation, and industry security standards. Remote, flexible, anytime, anywhere access, and it is usable across the various industry-standard browsers.25+ years of experience with these types of migrations – 1000s of scripts/macros converted in less than a day.”
- Rocket Terminal Emulator Review, Gerald Gerome M.
“Although infrequent, we encounter IBM capabilities that are not fully supported via TE. For example, TE SSO provides the capability to access the IBM I easily without having to enter user credentials. However, if you attempt to use file transfer functionality, you must enter your credentials.”
- Rocket Terminal Emulator Review, Michael D.
The operating system you use plays a huge role in your overall experience with a terminal emulator. Check out my review of the best operating systems and see which one fits.
If you’ve ever Googled “SSH client for Windows,” you’ve probably come across PuTTY. It’s been around forever, and for good reason—it’s lightweight, reliable, and does exactly what it says on the tin.
As someone who’s not a terminal expert, I approached PuTTY with a mix of curiosity and caution. Could it hold up to modern alternatives, or is it more like stepping back into the early 2000s?
PuTTY gets high marks for being quick to install and easy to run. G2 reviewers frequently mention that it demands very little from your system and starts up without any hassle. However, once launched, the interface often reminds users of a much earlier era. It’s minimal and purely functional, no themes or visual frills, just a utilitarian layout that does the job.
SSH session setup is generally described as straightforward, but there’s a learning curve. Many users note that PuTTY leans heavily on manual configuration. Tasks like saving sessions, managing authentication keys, and tweaking connection settings require diving into dense option menus which some find intimidating or outdated.
That said, session logging is a standout feature. Reviewers appreciate how easy it is to capture all activity during a session, a must-have for those managing remote servers or troubleshooting recurring issues. Port forwarding is also built in, which users find helpful for securely accessing remote services without needing third-party tools.
While PuTTY is lightweight and reliable, it does have some limitations. One commonly mentioned drawback is the lack of tabbed sessions, each connection opens in a separate window, which can get cluttered fast. Several users also flag that saved sessions aren’t encrypted, raising concerns around credential security.
Another adjustment for modern users is PuTTY’s older copy-paste mechanism. The highlighting method feels outdated to some, and takes a bit of getting used to. Still, for those seeking a no-frills terminal emulator, PuTTY remains a dependable option that continues to get the basics right.
“As a software developer, one of the aspects I appreciate most about PuTTY is its simplicity and efficiency. The straightforward user interface and lightweight design make it an excellent choice for SSH and Telnet connections. PuTTY's reliability and stability have been instrumental in my day-to-day development tasks, allowing me to access remote servers and devices effortlessly and securely. The extensive customization options and support for various protocols further enhance the tool's versatility. PuTTY continues to be a trusted and indispensable tool in my software development workflow.”
- PuTTY Review, Anish M.
“One downside of PuTTY is that it lacks a built-in file transfer interface, so I need to use a separate tool like WinSCP to transfer files between my local machine and remote servers. Additionally, the user interface, while functional, can feel a bit outdated compared to more modern SSH clients. Lastly, the absence of a tabbed interface can be inconvenient when working with multiple sessions, as I have to open several application instances instead of having everything organized in a single window.”
- PuTTY Review, Manuel Ángel G.
A good terminal emulator helps you stay productive, but efficient file management is just as important. Get the best file transfer protocol (FTP) software to make your workflow even smoother.
After using the no-frills PuTTY, I was eager to find out what Solar-PuTTY offers with its modernized approach. Developed by SolarWinds, it takes PuTTY's core functionality and wraps it in a much friendlier, more feature-packed experience.
The updated interface is one of the first things G2 users appreciate about Solar-PuTTY. Unlike PuTTY’s traditional design, this version features a more modern tabbed layout, streamlined session management, and a built-in search function that helps users quickly navigate saved connections. Installation is also frequently described as seamless. According to reviews, the setup process involves just a simple download and install, no extra steps or configuration hurdles, making it easy to get started right away.
Session organization and search capabilities are among Solar-PuTTY’s most praised features. G2 reviewers frequently contrast it with PuTTY’s more manual process, highlighting how easy it is to search for saved sessions and organize them using color-coded tags. This level of structure is especially helpful for users managing multiple environments or switching between servers regularly.
The built-in credential manager also receives positive feedback. Users appreciate being able to securely store SSH credentials and avoid re-entering passwords repeatedly. That said, a few reviewers have pointed out that the encryption settings aren’t immediately clear, prompting some to consult the documentation to better understand the tool’s security measures.
Solar-PuTTY’s tabbed interface is another standout. Rather than opening each connection in a separate window, sessions are neatly managed within tabs, allowing for easier navigation and a less cluttered desktop. Users also mention being able to arrange tabs based on priority, which helps create a more structured and streamlined workflow.
Performance, however, isn’t flawless at scale. Some G2 users report that while the tool handles a few connections well, it can freeze or lag when running a larger number of sessions simultaneously, particularly around ten or more, making it less ideal for heavier workloads.
“An exceptionally user-friendly command-line terminal that amalgamates the finest attributes of both Putty and SuperPutty. This terminal not only boasts ease of use but also combines the robust functionalities of these renowned tools, providing users with a versatile and efficient platform for their command-line operations. Its interface is designed for simplicity, ensuring a smooth and intuitive experience, while the incorporation of features from Putty and SuperPutty enhances its capabilities, making it a comprehensive solution for various command-line tasks. This amalgamation aims to cater to the needs of users who appreciate the best aspects of both tools in a unified and streamlined terminal environment.”
- Solar-PuTTY Review, Mohammed T.
“While it excels at connection, to cloud workloads and efficient session management it falls short in terms of built in security features. Although you are combining it with SSH for encryption having its security measures would be more convenient. It lacks a mode and customizable themes the interface is blur.”
- Solar-PuTTY Review, Andy W.
Most terminal emulators come with built-in secure file transfer protocol (SFTP) support, allowing you to securely move files without leaving the command line. Learn how to make the most of SFTP with your terminal.
Launching MobaXTerm feels less like opening a basic terminal emulator and more like stepping into a full remote access toolkit. G2 reviewers often describe it as an all-in-one solution for both local command-line work and remote connectivity.
Unlike more minimalist terminals, MobaXTerm comes packed with features beyond SSH. Users frequently highlight built-in tools like an X11 server, SFTP file browser, and remote desktop support. That said, some reviews raise the question of usability, especially for those who aren’t deeply familiar with command-line tools, suggesting that the breadth of features can feel a bit overwhelming at first.
MobaXTerm earns praise for how easy it is to get started. According to G2 reviewers, the availability of a portable version allows users to run the software without installing anything, making it especially convenient for use across multiple machines or locked-down environments.
Session management is another area where MobaXTerm stands out. Users highlight its ability to organize SSH, remote desktop protocol (RDP), and FTP sessions with ease—complete with saved credentials, custom descriptions, and automatic reconnections. This structured setup helps streamline workflows, especially for those juggling several remote systems.
The built-in graphical SFTP browser is frequently called out as a favorite feature. Rather than switching to an external client, users can manage file transfers right alongside terminal sessions via a drag-and-drop interface. Many appreciate how this keeps their workflow uninterrupted when working with remote servers.
Multi-execution mode also gets attention from advanced users. G2 reviewers describe how it enables them to run the same command across multiple SSH sessions at once—saving time during routine tasks. That said, some mention using it with caution to avoid accidental command repetition across servers.
Despite its extensive features, performance isn’t always flawless. A few users report that MobaXTerm can slow down when managing several active sessions, particularly when X11 forwarding is enabled—a trade-off noted by those pushing the tool to its limits.
Users who prefer a minimal setup may need time to get used to its many menus and options. The free version works well for basic use, but advanced features like unlimited sessions and deeper customization are part of the paid upgrade.
“I like best about MobaXTerm are firstly, its user interface that is very simple, intuitive and friendly for me to daily use. Secondly, its session auto-saved that when we login to devices via remote or console, mobaxterm is automatically saved the session in recent window. For the last one is its auto detecting the COM port number when we attach the devices via serial cable and it is very comfortable for me.”
- MobaXTerm Review, Yan L.
“File transfers cannot be monitored because it is easy to download a file from a server when connected, and such actions cannot be traced for audit purposes.”
- MobaXTerm Review, Joshua O.
For those seeking a lightweight alternative to feature-heavy terminal emulators, Mintty offers a refreshing change. As the default terminal for Cygwin and MSYS2, it’s built specifically for Windows-based Unix-like environments, and G2 reviewers often highlight how well it fits that niche.
Performance is one of Mintty’s most praised qualities. Users consistently describe it as fast and minimal, free from unnecessary features or clutter. It focuses on delivering a straightforward Unix-style terminal experience for Windows users, without overcomplicating things or adding bells and whistles that many don’t need.
Mintty is often appreciated for its simplicity right out of the box. G2 reviewers highlight that there’s no complex setup or long configuration process—just a clean terminal window ready to use immediately.
Text rendering is another standout area. According to user feedback, fonts appear sharp, and Mintty handles Unicode characters smoothly, something that isn’t always guaranteed with other terminal emulators. Reviewers working with multilingual scripts or special characters note that Mintty displays them accurately, without requiring manual fixes.
Its Xterm compatibility also gets positive mentions. Users report that their existing bash configurations generally work without any need for modification, which reduces setup time and makes it easier to transition from other Unix-based environments.
Despite its minimalist design, Mintty still offers thoughtful customization. Users can easily tweak fonts, colors, transparency, and window size through a simple settings dialog, no need to dive into config files. The copy-on-select feature is another crowd favorite, allowing quick copying of command output just by highlighting, which saves time and avoids extra keystrokes.
Mintty is designed for Cygwin and MSYS2, so running native Windows command-line applications like PowerShell isn’t as seamless. Some G2 users mentioned occasional issues with certain Windows-specific keyboard shortcuts. It also lacks built-in tab management, meaning multiple sessions open in separate windows. A few G2 reviews noted that this could make multitasking less convenient.
“Mintty also has excellent performance, and it is known for being fast and responsive, even when running on older hardware or slower systems. Additionally, since it is based on the Cygwin library, it provides a Linux-like environment on Windows, which is a valuable feature for developers and power users who work with Linux or Unix-like systems.”
- Mintty Review, Suraj K.
“It has limited compatibility with Windows applications since it aims to provide a Unix-like experience; other than that, I don't think anything to be disliked. It should also improve copy-paste behavior.”
- Mintty Review, Sudheer V.
SecureCRT stands out as a terminal emulator built with security and control in mind. According to G2 reviews, it’s designed for professionals who prioritize precision in their remote access workflows, with a strong focus on protocol support, session management, and compliance-ready security features.
Installation and initial setup reflect that focus. Users report that SecureCRT requires configuring authentication methods, encryption preferences, and compliance settings before jumping into a session—reinforcing that it’s tailored for sensitive environments where security can’t be an afterthought.
One of the standout aspects during my evaluation of the reviews was the granular session customization. Unlike other terminals that give you a one-size-fits-all experience, SecureCRT allows users to fine-tune nearly everything at a per-session level—whether it is adjusting key exchange methods, enabling logging policies, or defining connection timeout thresholds. This level of control gives users confidence in connecting to different servers with varying security requirements without constantly tweaking global settings.
Keyword highlighting is one of SecureCRT’s most praised productivity features. According to G2 reviewers, the ability to highlight specific terms like “error” or “success” makes it much easier to spot critical information in real-time logs. This functionality helps users troubleshoot and monitor sessions without manually scanning through long command outputs.
Session cloning is another time-saving tool that reviewers appreciate. Users mention that it allows them to replicate session settings across multiple connections without reconfiguring everything from scratch—particularly helpful when managing several environments that share similar authentication or connection setups.
That said, the overall user interface can feel overwhelming at first. Several reviews describe the settings menus as layered and dense, requiring a bit of a learning curve. But once familiar, users tend to appreciate the depth of customization the platform offers.
Session storage also gets mixed feedback. While local storage is reliable and effective, some users mention a desire for seamless cloud sync. As it stands, syncing configurations across devices requires manual exports, which adds a few extra steps to the process.
“This has been the best piece of software that I have ever used. Being able to keep access to all my network devices from 1 location is extremely helpful. It allows me to set up how I want to connect to each of them and what users I want to use and group them by location and what they are. You can even secure the software so that if someone has access to your computer for some reason, they cannot see your devices as they are encrypted.”
- SecureCRT Review, Brandon H.
“It is not intuitive unless you have a background in engineering or computer science, and you must remember your binds or show the popup to remember them. If there was a way to have the binds in a sidebar directly on SecureCRT, that would make this even better. It is already on the wishlist of features, so I guess it will be just a matter of time.”
- SecureCRT Review, Shakil B.
| Software | G2 Rating | Free plan | Ideal for |
| Rocket Terminal Emulator | 4.4/5 | No | Enterprises that need robust terminal emulation with strong support and usability. |
| PuTTY | 4.5/5 | Yes | Users seeking a lightweight, straightforward, and free terminal emulator for quick remote access. |
| Solar-PuTTY | 4.2/5 | Yes | Windows users who desire a modern interface with tabbed sessions and protocol support. |
| MobaXTerm | 4.6/5 | Yes | Users who require a comprehensive tool with advanced features, multiple protocol support, and a modern interface. |
| Mintty | 4.4/5 | Yes | Users working within Cygwin or MSYS environments seeking a lightweight and straightforward terminal emulator. |
| SecureCRT | 4.8/5 | No | Professionals who need a secure, reliable, and highly configurable terminal emulator for complex infrastructures. |
Note: G2 ratings are based on user reviews and are subject to change over time.
Have more questions? Find more answers below.
For speed, Mintty is a great lightweight option for Cygwin/MSYS2 users. Rocket Terminal Emulator offers a responsive experience with modern features, while PuTTY remains a reliable choice for quick, no-frills SSH connections.
SecureCRT offers detailed session customization with scripting and security options. MobaXTerm provides UI themes, macros, and layout adjustments. Solar-PuTTY offers a user-friendly experience with customizable tabs and themes. Rocket Terminal Emulator provides moderate customization for everyday tasks.
For beginners, Solar-PuTTY is a great choice due to its intuitive interface, tabbed sessions, and easy session management without complex configurations. It provides a modern take on PuTTY, making it more accessible while retaining essential functionality.
Yes, MobaXTerm and Solar-PuTTY offer built-in SFTP for easy file transfers. SecureCRT includes SFTP and SCP with advanced security features, while Rocket Terminal Emulator supports basic file transfer capabilities.
MobaXTerm supports SSH, Telnet, RDP, VNC, and SFTP, making it highly versatile. SecureCRT offers extensive protocol support with enterprise-grade security. Rocket Terminal Emulator provides flexibility with multiple protocol options, while PuTTY covers essential SSH and Telnet needs.
Finding the best terminal emulator is all about aligning features with your workflow. Whether it's simplicity, advanced functionality, or multi-platform compatibility, each tool offers something unique. The key is to identify what matters most to you—whether it’s speed, customization, or security—and focus on the options that best support your needs.
A good starting point is to explore a few terminal emulators that align with your current workflow and see how well they support your day-to-day needs. Experiment with customization settings, test how they handle your typical workloads, and determine if they integrate well with your existing tools. Pay attention to performance, ease of use, and whether the emulator improves your productivity without unnecessary complexity.
Remember, the best terminal emulator is the one that makes your work easier. Keep refining your setup, be open to new tools, and don’t hesitate to switch if your needs evolve. The command line is a powerful space—choosing the right emulator can make it even more efficient and enjoyable.
If you’re looking to complement your terminal experience with a more visual approach, check out my guide on graphical user interface (GUI) and learn how it can simplify complex tasks.
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