vtm: A Text-Based Desktop Environment and Terminal Multiplexer

vtm: A Text-Based Desktop Environment and Terminal Multiplexer

Summary

vtm is an innovative text-based application that functions as both a desktop environment and a standalone terminal emulator. It renders a mosaic of text cells into a TUI matrix, offering a unique and resource-efficient user interface. This versatile tool supports multiple platforms, including Windows, Linux, and macOS, providing a powerful alternative for console-based workflows.

Repository Info

Updated on December 2, 2025
View on GitHub

Tags

desktop-environmentmultiplexerterminaltext-basedwindows-consoleC++open-source

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Introduction

vtm is an innovative text-based application designed to function as both a full-fledged terminal emulator and a versatile text-based desktop environment. It renders its entire user interface as a mosaic of text cells, forming a TUI (Text User Interface) matrix. This unique approach allows vtm to run either within its own GUI window (on Windows) or within any compatible text console across various platforms.

vtm supports a wide range of operating systems, including Windows (8.1 and later), Linux, macOS, FreeBSD, NetBSD, and OpenBSD, making it a truly cross-platform solution for console enthusiasts.

Installation

Getting started with vtm is straightforward. You can either download pre-built binaries or compile it from source.

  • Binary Downloads: Pre-compiled binaries for various platforms (Linux, Windows, macOS) and architectures are available on the official GitHub releases page. Visit the vtm Releases page to find the latest stable builds.
  • Building from Source: For those who prefer to compile vtm themselves, detailed instructions can be found in the Building from source documentation.

Examples

vtm operates in two primary modes: terminal mode and desktop mode.

  • Terminal Mode: Use vtm as a standalone terminal emulator. 
    vtm -r term [<your_shell>]
# or simply
vtm -r [<your_shell>]
  • Desktop Mode: Wrap any console application and nest them indefinitely, creating a powerful text-based desktop environment. 
    vtm

    See vtm in action:

    Demo on YouTube

  • Enhanced SSH Access: For superior performance when accessing remote hosts, utilize vtm's auto-DirectVT mode over SSH. 
    vtm ssh user@host vtm

Why Use vtm?

vtm offers several compelling advantages for developers and power users:

  • Resource Efficiency: Being text-based, vtm is lightweight and consumes fewer system resources compared to traditional graphical desktop environments.
  • Powerful Nesting: Its desktop mode allows for indefinite nesting of console applications, providing a highly organized and flexible workspace.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: With support for major operating systems, vtm provides a consistent experience across different environments.
  • Optimized SSH Performance: The auto-DirectVT mode significantly outperforms classic SSH connections, making remote work more fluid.
  • Unique TUI Experience: For those who appreciate the efficiency and aesthetic of text-based interfaces, vtm delivers a modern and feature-rich TUI.

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