Windows and macOS day-to-day users rarely need to access the Terminal or CMD/Powershell to go about their business, and for good reason, as the GUIs of both systems do a good job at covering their basic needs.
Conversely, it’s almost a given that Linux users use the Terminal. Nevertheless, the Terminal can be extraordinary when it comes to managing files and folders, running and managing servers, and even creating scripts.
While the Terminal apps on most Linux distributions are quite competent, they’re not exactly perfect for everybody.
That said, if you’re looking for a terminal emulator, definitely check out Hyper.
Introduction
Hyper is a gorgeous open-source and highly extensible terminal emulator that works on all three major OSes out there: Windows, macOS, and Linux.
It’s built almost exclusively using web technologies (specifically Electron), and it has a lot to offer.
What’s to like
After using the default Terminal on your OS, Hyper is bound to feel like a gasp of fresh air, at least when it comes to looks.
The GUI is modern and sleek-looking. There’s a main window and a small hamburger menu in the upper left corner. The default color scheme is nice and easy on the eyes, but you can opt for a wide range of other themes as well.
In fact, Hyper’s extensibility is definitely one of its strong points. You can customize Hyper by adding packages (package name) to the config file. Thankfully, you’re provided with an impressive collection of packages/plugins to increase your productivity.
Most of the plugins allow you to change themes, the layout of the Terminal emulator, as well as change the tabbing layout and various other options.
Does it have any major drawbacks?
With the risk of appearing that we’re “hating on” Electron apps, there’s no getting around some defining characteristics.
Electron apps usually tend to run just fine, until you open a few others, just as resource-intensive apps alongside then, and Hyper is no exception. It’s not terrible, but don’t expect it to be as snappy as a native app.
Last but not least, while the plugin ecosystem is one of the main parts of why Hyper is so good, it’s not perfect. Yes, there is a wide range of plugins and extensions to be had, and yes, some of them are excellent. However, you don’t have much control over the quality of plugins.
Conclusion
Taking everything into account, Hyper is way better than most people expect, despite it being an Electron app.
It’s one of the best terminal emulators right out of the box in terms of looks, functionality, and flexibility.
It can do a pretty good job for both personal and professional-related tasks, but it’s not as lightweight as most default Terminals, and there’s really no getting around this fact. Is it worth a try-out? Definitely.
