Why a new Command Prompt?

The Windows Command Prompt is a powerful tool, but it is lacking some usability features to make it great. If you are not familiar with the Command Prompt go check out my tutorial Windows Command Line.

Just to list a few issues:

• No tabs or split-screen
• Copying and pasting is awkward
• Hard to move the cursor or insert text
• Lack of customization

Let’s face it. The Windows Command Prompt is just boring. If you are going to be using the tool daily then it should be more than what it is. Just be better.

Here are my top picks for Windows Command Prompt alternatives. Try each out to see what fits.

ConEmu

Website: https://conemu.github.io/

Cost: Free (Open Source)

Features:

• Windows Command Prompt emulator
• Easy window resizing
• Editors can be organized as tabs or panels
• Customizable fonts
• And much more

Comments: ConEmu is my console of choice. I teach all of my courses using it. Quick to install. Easy to use. Super powerful.

cmder

Website: https://conemu.github.io/

Cost: Free (Open Source)

Features:

• Windows Command Prompt emulator
• Based on ConEmu
• Enhancements from Clink

Hyper

Website: https://hyper.is/

Cost: Free (Open Source)

Features:

• Windows Command Prompt emulator
• Installs on Windows, Mac, or Linux
• Customizable with extensions