vtm: Create a Text-Based Desktop and Terminal Multiplexer

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Overview

vtm combines terminal multiplexing with a text-based desktop environment. It runs command-line applications inside nestable workspaces, offering a way to organize terminal tools without relying on a conventional graphical desktop.

It is aimed at people who work primarily in terminals and want a consistent interface across native windows and standard consoles. Its DirectVT protocol also supports connecting to a vtm session over SSH.

Key Features

Starts a text-based desktop environment with the vtm command.
Runs as a standalone terminal emulator with a selected shell.
Wraps command-line applications in its workspace.
Supports infinite nesting of terminal environments.
Connects to remote vtm instances over SSH using the DirectVT protocol.
Provides builds for Windows, Linux, macOS, and several BSD systems.
Includes example HybridTUI apps and demos.

Use Cases

Terminal-focused developers can group command-line tools in a desktop-like workspace.
Users working across multiple consoles can run nested terminal sessions and keep applications organized.
Administrators can connect to a remote vtm environment over SSH using DirectVT.
People who need a standalone terminal emulator can launch vtm with their shell.

Project Facts

Language: C++
License: MIT
Stars: 3.4k
Forks: 80
Topics: desktop-environment, htui, hybrid-tui, multiplexer, terminal, text-based, windows-console
Archived: No

Getting Started

Run vtm to start the desktop environment, or vtm --run term [<your_shell>] to use terminal mode. See the README for downloads, documentation, and other ways to run it.

Alternatives

Zellij: Zellij focuses on developer terminal sessions with panes, tabs, collaboration, and plugins, while vtm can also host a text-based desktop or act as a standalone terminal.

Considerations

Using vtm requires a compatible terminal or native console. The README links to a list of tested terminals.
GUI-window rendering is not available on macOS, so macOS users need a terminal emulator.
The project supports multiple operating systems, but platform and terminal behavior may differ. Consult the documentation and tested-terminal list before relying on a specific setup.