Comparison · cross-platform terminal
MyShell vs Tabby
Tabby (formerly Terminus) is a popular cross-platform terminal with a flexible UI. MyShell is aimed at the workflow around the shell: saved sessions, offline OS-aware help, tasks with Run, and an AI assistant that can execute in your active session.
Why teams pick MyShell over Tabby
- Tabby excels at rendering and tabs; MyShell focuses on workspace tooling
- Contextual help and tasks follow OS and tool context (vim, psql, python, …)
- One-click Run from help, tasks, and AI — less copy-paste
- Cross-platform native Desktop with optional Cloud
Feature comparison
| Feature | Tabby | MyShell |
|---|---|---|
| Primary focus | Terminal UI / tabs / plugins | Shell workspace + help + AI Run |
| Offline help library | Plugins / docs elsewhere | Built-in OS-aware help |
| Tasks / recipes | Limited | Reusable tasks with Run |
| SSH sessions | Supported | Quick starts, groups, keep-alive |
| AI assistant | Via plugins / external | BYOK + optional Cloud |
| Session persistence | Varies | Restore sessions and scrollback |
| Pricing | Free / open source | $39 Desktop; Cloud optional |
| Platforms | macOS, Windows, Linux | macOS, Windows, Linux |
Who each is for
Prefer Tabby if you want a customizable terminal UI first. Prefer MyShell if profiles, SSH, contextual help, and one-click recipes are the main job.
FAQ
Is MyShell open source like Tabby?
MyShell is a commercial desktop product with a one-time Desktop license and optional Cloud. The value is the integrated workspace, help library, and AI Run flow.
Can I keep Tabby and use MyShell?
Yes. Some people keep a favorite emulator and use MyShell when they want the help/tasks/AI workspace.
What is tool context?
Help and history can follow what you are in — for example vim, python, psql, or mysql — so suggestions match the session.
Try the shell workspace
MyShell Desktop is a one-time $39 license with BYOK AI included. Optional Cloud adds sync and hosted Auto AI. 14-day trial available.