Can you use iTerm2 on Mac?
Yes, you can use iTerm2 on a Mac. It is a native terminal emulator application built specifically for macOS. It is not a game, but a core developer tool for accessing the command line, running scripts, and managing servers. As of 2026, it is fully compatible with all current Macs, including those with Apple silicon chips.
Compatibility Status
iTerm2 is a native macOS application. It does not require any translation layers or compatibility software. The developer, George Nachman, releases universal binaries. This means a single download works on both Intel based Macs and Apple silicon Macs (M series chips). It is updated regularly for new macOS versions, ensuring full support for macOS Sequoia and later 2025 releases.
Performance on Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M3, M4)
Performance is excellent on Apple silicon Macs. Since late 2020, iTerm2 has been compiled as a universal binary. It runs natively on M series chips without using Rosetta 2 translation. This results in fast launch times, efficient rendering of text and graphics, and low resource usage. Users on M3 and M4 Macs will notice no performance issues. The app takes full advantage of the efficiency and power cores in these processors for smooth operation.
Installation Steps
You can install iTerm2 by downloading it directly from the official website. The standard method is to download the ZIP file, extract it, and drag the iTerm2 application into your Applications folder. It is also available through package managers like Homebrew for users who prefer command line installation. Once installed, you can set it as your default terminal. Detailed steps are in the installation guide below.
Tips for the Best Experience
To get the most from iTerm2, customize its settings. You can create multiple profiles for different tasks, like local development or remote server management. Use the split pane feature to work in several terminal sessions within one window. Set up hotkey windows for quick access. Configure the color scheme and font for better readability. iTerm2 supports shell integration scripts for features like command history and inline images. These scripts provide more context and functionality within the terminal.
Common Issues
A common issue is slow performance or high CPU usage, which is often related to shell integration or a problematic prompt configuration. Disabling shell integration temporarily can help diagnose this. Another issue involves permission errors after a macOS update. This is usually fixed by granting Full Disk Access to iTerm2 in System Settings, under Privacy and Security. Some users experience rendering glitches with certain fonts or color themes, which can typically be resolved by switching to a different font or resetting the affected profile's display settings. If iTerm2 does not open after an update, try removing its preferences file and restarting the application, as corrupted preferences can cause launch failures.
