ghostel.el: Terminal Emulator for Emacs with Shell
A terminal emulator for Emacs powered by libghostty with advanced shell integration.
★ 4.0 / 5 iKeep scoreScreenshots
Quick facts
Overview
ghostel.el is a terminal emulator for Emacs that leverages libghostty for enhanced terminal emulation. It offers shell integration, multiple input modes, and advanced features like inline images and remote terminal support via TRAMP.
Getting Started with ghostel.el
- Install ghostel.elInstall ghostel.el via package manager like MELPA or manually from its GitHub repository.
- Configure EmacsAdd ghostel.el to your Emacs configuration and require it for use.
- Launch TerminalUse the ghostel command within Emacs to start a terminal session.
- Customize SettingsAdjust settings like input mode, color palette, and rendering options as needed.
- Use Remote TerminalsLeverage TRAMP integration for remote terminal access if required.
Pricing
| Plan | Price | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Open Source | Free | open-source |
💡 Indicative pricing — check the official rates at dakra.github.io · Updated 7/16/2026
Key features
- Shell integration for seamless terminal use within Emacs
- Multiple input modes including char, emacs, and copy modes
- Inline images support via Kitty graphics protocol
- Remote terminal support with TRAMP integration
- Password prompt detection and secure handling
- Customizable color palette and rendering options
Pros
- Deep integration with Emacs for a unified workflow
- Advanced features like inline images and remote terminals
- Highly configurable to suit different use cases
Cons
- Requires Emacs and some setup for optimal use
- Limited to users already familiar with Emacs
Use cases
- Developers who prefer working within Emacs for all tasks
- Users needing advanced terminal features within their IDE
- Remote development workflows requiring TRAMP integration
The verdict
ghostel.el is a robust terminal emulator for Emacs users, offering advanced features and seamless integration. It's a must-try for developers who live in Emacs.
✓ Who should use it
Emacs users who need a feature-rich terminal emulator with deep integration.
✕ Who should skip it
Users who don't use Emacs or prefer standalone terminal applications.
Categories
Community
- GitHub Issues ↗Official issue tracker for bug reports
Great for
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Frequently asked questions
Is ghostel.el - Terminal emulator powered by libghostty free?
ghostel.el - Terminal emulator powered by libghostty is free to use.
What is ghostel.el - Terminal emulator powered by libghostty best for?
Emacs users who want a powerful, integrated terminal emulator.
Does ghostel.el - Terminal emulator powered by libghostty have an API?
No, ghostel.el - Terminal emulator powered by libghostty does not offer a public API.
Can I self-host ghostel.el - Terminal emulator powered by libghostty?
Yes, ghostel.el - Terminal emulator powered by libghostty can be self-hosted.
Who should use ghostel.el - Terminal emulator powered by libghostty?
Emacs users who need a feature-rich terminal emulator with deep integration.
Reviews 4.0 ★ · 1 review
ghostel.el is a standout terminal emulator for Emacs, offering features like shell integration and inline images that elevate the development experience. Its TRAMP support is a boon for remote work, and the multiple input modes cater to different workflows. While it requires some Emacs familiarity, the payoff in productivity is significant. Ideal for developers who want to stay within Emacs for all their tasks, ghostel.el combines power with flexibility, making it a top choice for integrated terminal solutions.
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