List of the Top 25 Terminal Emulators for Windows in 2025

ZOC is a sophisticated terminal emulator designed for both Windows and macOS platforms. It boasts an extensive array of emulations and powerful features, all while maintaining a reliable and sleek interface. Users can connect to various hosts and mainframes through secure shell, telnet, and serial connections, among other communication options. The modern user interface makes ZOC user-friendly and accessible. This terminal is known for its versatility, robustness, and dependability. It includes features such as tabbed sessions with thumbnail previews, an organized address book with folders, and color-coded hosts and host names, allowing for extensive customization to suit individual preferences. Furthermore, ZOC offers a scripting language that supports over 200 commands, enhancing its functionality. It is compatible with Windows 10/11 and macOS 12 Monterey, making it suitable for various users, including administrators, thanks to its straightforward deployment and configuration. Additional features include logging capabilities, scrollback functionality, keyboard remapping options, and comprehensive logging. Users can define buttons, automate tasks, and develop macros to streamline their workflows. Moreover, the emulations supported by ZOC encompass xterm and VT220, making it a versatile tool for developers and system administrators alike.

Tera Term is a multifunctional terminal emulator tailored for Microsoft Windows, enabling connections through serial ports, telnet, and SSH protocols. It boasts a plethora of features, including a built-in macro scripting language that simplifies the automation of tasks linked to remote connections from a computer. As a free software solution, it adeptly manages various communication methods, from serial port interactions to TCP/IP connections, encompassing telnet and both SSH1 and SSH2. Additionally, Tera Term allows for advanced functionalities like log replaying, named pipe connections, and supports the latest IPv6 standard. It provides emulation capabilities for VT100 and selected VT200/300 types, along with TEK4010, while also accommodating numerous file transfer protocols such as Kermit, XMODEM, YMODEM, ZMODEM, B-PLUS, and Quick-VAN. Moreover, it incorporates the "Tera Term Language" for script execution and supports a wide range of character sets and encodings, including those for Japanese, English, Russian, and Korean, as well as UTF-8. The software also features a message catalog that is accessible in several languages, including German, French, and Chinese. Ultimately, Tera Term is distinguished not only by its comprehensive features but also by its commitment to serving a wide array of user preferences across different linguistic backgrounds. Its versatility makes it an invaluable tool for both casual users and advanced professionals alike.

Rio is a terminal application engineered with Rust, WebGPU, and the Tokio runtime, focused on delivering outstanding frames per second while allowing for reduced GPU consumption. Its rendering engine is built on a Redux state machine, which ensures that lines that remain unchanged are not redrawn, thus optimizing the rendering process most of the time. Additionally, Rio is designed to be compatible with a WebAssembly runtime, which opens avenues for future features like customizable tab systems through WASM plugins created in various programming languages. Furthermore, Rio incorporates WGPU, a WebGPU implementation tailored for non-browser contexts, and serves as a backend for Firefox's own WebGPU implementation, enabling more efficient use of contemporary GPUs in comparison to WebGL alternatives. This commitment to performance and flexibility positions Rio as an adaptable terminal choice, catering to users who value both speed and customization options. Users can expect a seamless experience that balances resource efficiency with powerful functionality.

MobaXterm functions as a comprehensive toolkit tailored for remote computing requirements. This singular Windows application boasts a wide range of features crafted for programmers, webmasters, IT administrators, and anyone in need of an efficient method to handle their remote tasks. A notable advantage of using an integrated network application is that when you connect to a remote server via SSH, a graphical SFTP browser appears, allowing for immediate editing of remote files. Moreover, any remote applications you run will seamlessly blend with your Windows desktop due to its integrated X server. MobaXterm was created with a specific goal in mind: to provide an easy-to-navigate interface that facilitates access to remote servers across diverse networks and systems. Users can access the MobaXterm Home Edition free of charge, while businesses seeking additional features may want to consider the subscription-based MobaXterm Professional Edition. With its extensive features and user-centric design, MobaXterm emerges as a dependable choice for fulfilling remote computing needs, making it an essential tool for various professionals in today's digital landscape.

PuTTY is a free software application that provides SSH and Telnet capabilities for both Windows and Unix platforms, also acting as an xterm terminal emulator. This client application is compatible with various protocols such as SSH, Telnet, Rlogin, and SUPDUP, enabling users to establish remote sessions on computers across a network. Functioning primarily from the client side, it allows individuals to view and interact with remote systems seamlessly. For example, when you open PuTTY on a Windows machine and connect to a Unix server, a dedicated window appears for your use. Any commands you input into this window are sent straight to the Unix server, with the resulting responses being displayed back to you in the same interface. This capability means you can work on the Unix system as if you were right in front of its terminal, despite possibly being miles away. Besides this, PuTTY allows users to save configurations under named session profiles, while also providing the ability to adjust default settings for new connections. This adaptability enhances its utility, making it an invaluable tool for efficiently managing remote sessions, and its user-friendly interface further contributes to its appeal among users.

Muon provides an intuitive and enjoyable way to oversee remote servers using SSH. This graphical SSH client features a sophisticated SFTP file browser, an SSH terminal emulator, a remote resource and process manager, a server disk space analyzer, a remote text editor, a comprehensive remote log viewer, and many other utilities that aid in remote server management. Operating like web-based control panels, Muon connects directly over SSH from a local machine, thus removing the necessity for any installations on the server side. It is compatible with both Linux and Windows operating systems and has been tested with a range of Linux and UNIX servers, including Ubuntu server, CentOS, RHEL, OpenSUSE, FreeBSD, OpenBSD, NetBSD, and HP-UX. This tool primarily caters to web and backend developers who frequently deploy and troubleshoot their applications on remote servers, while also appealing to system administrators who handle multiple remote servers. Muon's user-friendly design and powerful capabilities significantly enhance productivity by streamlining server management tasks, making it an essential tool in the toolkit of anyone who needs efficient server oversight. As remote work continues to grow, tools like Muon are becoming increasingly vital for effective server management in various environments.

Efficient connection management is essential for handling various connection types without any hassle. Royal TS excels in this area, supporting protocols such as RDP, VNC, SSH terminals, S/FTP, and web interfaces, ensuring comprehensive control over your connections. It boasts an integrated credential management system along with options for secure team sharing, which allows you to share connection lists while keeping personal credentials secure. You can easily automate repetitive tasks through command tasks and key sequence tasks, streamlining your workflow. The inclusion of SSH-based tunneling serves as a secure gateway that is flawlessly integrated into the Royal TS framework. In addition, Dynamic Folders facilitate the real-time importation of data from external sources, enhancing functionality. By simply labeling individual connections, you can assign specific credentials to them, thereby safeguarding sensitive information within a secured document that only you can access. Moreover, Royal TS supports document management that allows multiple users to access documents at the same time, enabling seamless synchronization of changes without needing a SQL database backend, which significantly boosts collaboration and productivity. Ultimately, Royal TS stands out as a comprehensive solution for all your connection management needs, making it an invaluable tool for teams and individuals alike.

The PowerTerm InterConnect Series offers a range of robust terminal emulation tools tailored to satisfy the host access requirements of both large organizations and smaller businesses. This collection empowers companies to implement a cohesive host access solution throughout their operations. The applications in the PowerTerm InterConnect suite guarantee fast and reliable access to data stored on various host systems, such as IBM Mainframe zSeries, IBM AS/400 iSeries, UNIX, OpenVMS, Tandem, and HP. Each tool in the series supports terminal emulation via several communication methods, ensuring flexibility for users. Moreover, PowerTerm InterConnect is packed with a versatile and extensive feature set designed to maximize user productivity while providing numerous customization options. With the inclusion of Power Script Language, users can streamline their workflows and improve overall operational efficiency. The compact nature of PowerTerm InterConnect makes it an ideal, quick, and effective solution for running legacy applications, and its installation process is straightforward and swift on any PC. Ultimately, this series is distinguished by its adaptability to meet various user requirements while consistently delivering high performance. Its comprehensive capabilities ensure that businesses can effectively manage their host access needs with ease and reliability.

The PowerTerm Pro Series is the premium terminal emulation solution from Ericom Software, specifically tailored for Windows, which improves and simplifies the process of connecting to legacy systems. It supports a diverse range of hosts and emulation types, enabling organizations to consolidate their access methods into a single, efficient solution. With a host of features including a customizable graphical user interface, SSL, SSH, and secure file transfer (SFTP), both PowerTerm Pro and PowerTerm Pro Enterprise cater to the unique host, security, server, and productivity demands of various businesses. The intuitive interface enhances operational efficiency, allowing for rapid task completion via user-friendly drag-and-drop tools for effortless data access, and incorporates AS/400 DFT to facilitate easy file transfers between PCs and AS/400 hosts. Additionally, this terminal emulation software is set up centrally on a server, making it accessible from Windows desktops under a per-user licensing model, which simplifies management and deployment within organizations. Consequently, PowerTerm Pro not only boosts productivity but also contributes to a more modern method of connecting with legacy systems. This robust solution ultimately allows businesses to focus on their core operations while relying on dependable access to crucial data.

SecureCRT is a versatile terminal emulation software compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux, designed specifically for IT professionals to improve productivity through advanced session management and automation of repetitive tasks. This powerful application guarantees secure remote access, efficient file transfers, and reliable data tunneling for all team members, making it an invaluable asset. Whether you are upgrading from Telnet or Terminal or simply looking for a more effective secure remote access tool, SecureCRT can seamlessly integrate into your daily operations. With its robust SSH security features, comprehensive session oversight, and sophisticated scripting options, it significantly enhances user efficiency. The ability to highlight specific words, phrases, or substrings in the session window greatly assists in pinpointing errors in log files or streaming outputs, while also stressing prompts for clarity. Furthermore, the inclusion of regular expressions makes it easier to emphasize elements like IP addresses, and users can customize keyword display attributes, such as bold, reverse video, and color, to improve visibility. All in all, this dynamic tool is an essential component for professionals aiming to refine their workflow and streamline their tasks. Ultimately, the capabilities offered by SecureCRT position it as a leading choice for those who prioritize effective and secure remote management solutions.

Terminal emulation enables a personal computer to replicate the look and functionality of older terminal models, allowing the execution of software specifically designed for those terminals. A leading option in terminal emulator software is OpenText HostExplorer, which is particularly effective for IBM® 3270 Mainframes, AS/400s, UNIX, and FTP hosts. This program facilitates fast, secure, and reliable connections from Microsoft® Windows® PCs to a variety of enterprise systems. Organizations utilizing HostExplorer can take advantage of modern PC and web technologies while still protecting their investments in data and information systems. Transitioning to this software allows companies to maintain the current user experience, eliminating the need for retraining and minimizing disruptions to daily operations. Additionally, it simplifies maintenance through automatic updates and centralized management, which significantly lowers both costs and the effort required for upkeep. With its comprehensive features, HostExplorer is an invaluable asset for businesses aiming to upgrade their terminal access while ensuring reliability is not sacrificed. This adaptability not only enhances productivity but also aligns with evolving technological demands in the corporate environment.

StayLinked provides a seamless transition to cutting-edge devices while enhancing productivity through advanced business intelligence and facilitating interaction with innovative technologies like automation, robotics, and augmented reality. Maintaining employee engagement on the job is vital, yet traditional terminal emulator solutions often lead to inconsistent performance and connectivity issues. As a result, end users frequently find themselves spending more time troubleshooting with help desk support than executing essential application tasks. By eradicating lost sessions, enabling centralized configuration and management of applications, and offering efficient help desk tools, StayLinked guarantees optimal performance for both applications and users. Notably, StayLinked Terminal Emulation stands out as the quickest terminal emulation solution for mobile devices, in contrast to conventional terminal emulators that route all telnet/SSH traffic directly to the mobile device. This efficiency not only boosts productivity but also empowers users to focus on their core responsibilities without interruption.

Originally designed to enhance the basic functionality of GNU Screen for the Ubuntu server edition, Byobu has undergone significant development. It now incorporates an improved profile, intuitive keybindings, and various configuration tools, along with optional notifications for system status that work with both the GNU Screen window manager and the modern Tmux terminal multiplexer, all while remaining compatible with a wide range of Linux, BSD, and Mac distributions. Furthermore, Byobu offers specialized configuration tools and system status alerts specifically for users of GNU Screen and Tmux. Provided as free software under the GPLv3 license, Byobu allows users to freely access, modify, and contribute to its development. This dedication to open-source values not only fosters a supportive community but also drives ongoing enhancements to the software. The continuous feedback from its users plays a crucial role in shaping future updates and features.

Rocket® Passport terminal emulation solutions include both Rocket Passport Web to Host® and Rocket Passport PC to Host, offering a complete array for accessing host systems. The Rocket Passport Web to Host software functions as a powerful, browser-based IBM® 3270 emulator that can significantly reduce costs for businesses that are currently using alternative desktop terminal emulators. It features advanced IBM TN3270E emulation, basic TN3270 emulation, and compatibility with IBM® i (TN5250), UNIX/DEC (VT), as well as secure File Transfer Protocol (FTP). By leveraging Passport Web to Host, remote or distributed Windows users can efficiently connect to host systems, benefiting from essential tools for secure and dependable connectivity. This solution includes SSL and SSH security support, VB Script for macro development, HLLAPI, and an Object API that facilitates smooth integration with IBM applications, along with extensive cut-and-paste capabilities within Windows. Moreover, Passport PC to Host equips Windows users with all the necessary tools to create secure and effective linkages to host systems, thereby enhancing the overall user experience. Together, these solutions reinforce Rocket's leadership in the realm of terminal emulation technology, making it a go-to choice for businesses seeking reliable connectivity. As a result, organizations can streamline their operations while ensuring robust and secure access to their critical systems.

Flynet Viewer™, a terminal emulation solution, is a web-based tool designed to access essential business systems seamlessly. This innovative terminal emulator enables users to connect to Mainframe, iSeries, and Unix systems from any device without the need for client software installation. It operates from a server environment, which can be hosted either on-premises or in the cloud, and is centrally managed through the Flynet Viewer administration center. The software is universally compatible with all web browsers and devices, eliminating the need for ActiveX or Java plugins. Flynet Viewer is equipped with an array of features typical of enterprise-level terminal emulators, such as file transfer capabilities, client and server-side macros, as well as single sign-on (SSO) and multi-factor authentication (MFA). In addition to these features, it also supports keyboard remapping for enhanced user experience. While it provides the same extensive functionality as traditional desktop terminal emulation clients, Flynet Viewer delivers its services over the internet through a browser interface. This flexibility ensures that Flynet Viewer Terminal Emulation can be utilized on any device, regardless of the operating system or the browser being used, making it a versatile solution for modern business needs. Its browser-based nature allows for easy access and management, streamlining workflows and improving overall productivity.

HostAccess serves as a terminal emulator software for PC users, specifically designed for those running Microsoft Windows. It equips users with a variety of terminal emulator functionalities, enabling secure connections to platforms like Linux, Unix, and IBM systems. The primary goal of HostAccess is to facilitate connections to PICK (multivalue) databases, which include systems such as UniVerse, UniData, D3, and ONware, allowing users to leverage their custom applications developed in PICK Basic. These applications not only provide APIs for seamless data exchange but also come with robust graphical user interface features. Users can efficiently generate reports and integrate their data within Windows-based applications. Moreover, HostAccess enables connections to multiple systems from a unified interface. With all necessary terminal emulator capabilities consolidated on a single page, HostAccess stands out as a comprehensive solution, catering to varying needs such as asynchronous and synchronous connections, server-side administration, support for multiple concurrent users, and access to several sessions simultaneously. Thus, if you require a versatile terminal emulator, HostAccess is an excellent choice for enhancing your productivity.

Upgrade host applications to match the user-friendliness of those in Office by incorporating modern user-interface elements. Leverage the productivity tools available in Microsoft Office to help users maximize their efficiency from any location. Streamline and secure host-access operations by merging Reflection with MSS, ensuring that Reflection Desktop integrates smoothly with your Identity and Access Management (IAM) system, including SAML-enabled authentication options for MSS. This synergy allows MSS to effortlessly synchronize application settings and user-specific data from a centralized server. Safeguard your critical host systems with intuitive access controls that enable the granting or denial of access based on user roles or groups. Quickly implement changes to meet shifting business needs and execute immediate modifications after installation. Replace outdated, weak eight-character passwords with strong, complex ones, while employing effective multifactor authentication methods, such as one-time passwords (OTP), biometric solutions, push notifications, and mobile authentication, to elevate security. This holistic strategy not only enhances user experience but also strengthens the security and management of host systems, ensuring a resilient infrastructure that can adapt to future demands. Additionally, ongoing training and support can further empower users to utilize these features effectively.

Sessions can be customized through the use of hotspots and keyboard mapping, while web frameworks are specifically designed for mainframe applications. Applications can be centrally installed and deployed, ensuring they are readily available to users. When users connect to your server, they automatically receive the latest updates without any manual intervention. You can connect with any major GDS for seamless integration. The Airlines Printer component enables the generation of tickets, baggage tags, and boarding passes, enhancing operational efficiency. Host systems can be accessed to provide IBM, UNIX, and Unisys data directly to browsers from any location, eliminating the necessity for Java. The new Reflection for the Web Launcher facilitates user access to mainframe and other applications, effectively removing dependency on Oracle Java. Additionally, users are empowered to work according to their preferences by accessing terminal sessions, performing file transfers, and utilizing printing capabilities. This flexibility greatly enhances productivity and user satisfaction across various platforms.

Entire Connection is a robust terminal emulation tool that enables Windows® users to connect to a variety of applications on different platforms such as mainframe, UNIX®, Linux®, OpenVMS, and BS2000. It supports thousands of Microsoft® Windows® users simultaneously, making it a highly scalable option for enterprises. To enhance security and prevent unauthorized access to applications, users must enter their user ID and password to start a terminal session. Moreover, organizations can utilize Single Sign-On (SSO) by securely saving host user credentials in an encrypted shared file, and leveraging the Entire Connection script language for seamless automatic logins to the host system. This combination of features not only simplifies user access but also strengthens the security of application interactions, providing a comprehensive solution to terminal emulation needs. Furthermore, the ease of use and advanced security measures make Entire Connection a preferred choice for businesses aiming to enhance their operational efficiency.

InterSoft International, Inc. develops highly regarded software solutions tailored for Microsoft Windows workstations, enabling seamless connections to various host systems such as IBM, UNIX, Windows, and VMS. These innovative tools are employed worldwide by individuals and organizations alike to meet their client/server requirements effectively. The remarkable features of NetTerm cater to a diverse range of users, including military personnel, IBM, federal courts, the National Institutes of Health, public libraries, car dealerships, and numerous individuals seeking access to Internet accounts, public library systems, and multiple database connectivity options. Professionals in the medical, financial, and legal fields depend on NetTerm for its ability to efficiently handle a multitude of databases from around the world. Celebrated for its exceptional performance, NetTerm stands out as a robust and customizable terminal emulator that accommodates both Internet and intranet connectivity, with support for various protocols including Telnet, rlogin, dial-up, and beyond. As a result of its adaptability and dependability, NetTerm not only meets the current needs of its clients but also evolves alongside advancements in technology, ensuring continued satisfaction across its broad user base. The ongoing commitment to innovation guarantees that InterSoft International, Inc. remains at the forefront of the software industry.

FlexTerm is a C# .NET creation that presents a long-awaited contemporary interface for terminal emulation enthusiasts. This modern design boasts a unique ribbon command bar that neatly categorizes the program’s features into tabs positioned at the top of the window. By improving the visibility of tools and functionalities, it significantly shortens the learning curve for users while enhancing their overall sense of command over the application. The ribbon not only serves as a replacement for the traditional menu and toolbars but is also customizable, allowing users to create personalized tabs and groups to match their individual preferences. Moreover, a FlexTerm workspace can consist of either a single session or multiple sessions, which users can dock as tabs or let float freely. The intuitive drag-and-drop interface enables effortless rearrangement of sessions, allowing users to customize their workspace according to their specific requirements. This adaptability guarantees that users can organize their terminal settings in a manner that maximizes both productivity and efficiency, ultimately leading to a more streamlined user experience. Additionally, the modern interface encourages users to explore and utilize features they might not have previously engaged with, thereby enhancing their overall usage of the software.

The esteemed emulator preferred by global mainframe users is engineered to effortlessly migrate essential terminal applications to contemporary platforms such as the web and mobile devices, or even as APIs, while preserving the integrity of the original application. HCL ZIE for Transformation plays a crucial role in this process, allowing organizations to deploy vital terminal applications as standard SOAP or RESTful web services without the need for any rewrites or access to the original source code. By utilizing this solution, businesses can significantly reduce training costs and enhance user productivity with improved navigation and usability, which helps to decrease data entry errors. The customizable screens and adjustable default rendering of ZIE for Transformation ensure that all existing application interfaces are revitalized with a modern, user-friendly aesthetic. Additionally, this solution enables deployment across a variety of environments, such as web portals and Eclipse RCP, providing access through an array of web browsers, including those on mobile devices, thus expanding the reach of essential applications. This flexibility not only enhances the user experience but also equips organizations to efficiently respond to changing technological demands and opportunities. Moreover, the integration of advanced features allows for a smoother transition to modern platforms while maintaining operational continuity.

Rocket® Terminal Emulator, which was formerly recognized as Rocket® BlueZone®, presents a distinctive method for terminal emulation solutions. Users are empowered to extensively customize their environments, leading to improved comfort and increased productivity. This solution incorporates strong security protocols designed to protect essential business data, while also being a cost-effective choice that delivers substantial value. Making the switch from your existing terminal emulation software is straightforward, thanks to our user-friendly migration wizards and a committed support team that aids in the transition to Rocket Terminal Emulator. Each individual can adjust their terminal configuration to establish a familiar and welcoming workspace. Users of host systems often have specific shortcuts and hotkeys set up for their routine tasks, and with Rocket Terminal Emulator, a significant number of these macros can be easily transferred from the previous emulator, ensuring a seamless continuation of your workflow. This facilitates not only an improved user experience but also a retention of productivity during the process of change. Furthermore, by allowing users to maintain their established habits and preferences, Rocket Terminal Emulator fosters a more efficient working environment.

ConEmu-Maximus5 is a comprehensive, efficient, and reliable terminal emulator designed to support any console application developed for WinAPI environments, like cmd, PowerShell, and Far, as well as Unix PTY setups such as Cygwin, MSYS, or WSL Bash. This tool enhances the traditional Windows console window by enabling users to operate multiple consoles and simple GUI applications, including PuTTY, all within a customizable tabbed interface loaded with various features. It launches console applications in a hidden console window, providing an alternative graphical interface that is fully customizable and rich in capabilities. The application allows for seamless window resizing and offers tabs for multiple editors, viewers, panels, and consoles, which makes it easy to run simple GUI programs like PuTTY in distinct tabs. Moreover, it supports Windows 7 Jump Lists and progress indicators on taskbar buttons, simplifying the execution of legacy DOS applications and games on both Windows 7 and 64-bit systems. With functionalities such as thumbnails and tiles in Far Manager, along with multiple display modes like normal, maximized, and full screen, ConEmu-Maximus5 guarantees a versatile terminal experience. Its blend of robust features and intuitive design not only enhances user productivity but also ensures that users can tailor their workflows to meet individual needs. Overall, this application stands out as an essential tool for anyone seeking to streamline their console experience while maximizing efficiency.

OpenText™ Extra! is a Windows-based emulator designed to facilitate connections to IBM UNIX and Linux host applications. Known for its user-friendliness, manageability, and robust security, OpenText™ Extra! helps streamline operations by automating repetitive tasks through macros and keystroke automation. Additionally, its integration with Microsoft Office significantly reduces the number of keystrokes needed, further enhancing efficiency. By incorporating various productivity tools, users can complete routine tasks more quickly and with greater precision. The software can be thoroughly customized prior to deployment using a dedicated installation wizard, ensuring it meets specific user needs. Furthermore, group policy capabilities enable centralized management of configuration files, which not only saves time but also enhances overall control over the software environment. This comprehensive approach makes OpenText Extra! an invaluable asset for organizations seeking to optimize their operational workflows.