WeeChat

An extensible terminal chat client with a full IRC plugin and scripting in eight languages.

FreeOpen sourceLinuxCommand line
Official websiteweechat.orgDownload pageweechat.orgDocumentationweechat.org

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About WeeChat

WeeChat is a fast, light chat client that runs in the terminal. Its IRC plugin supports multiple servers, proxies, IPv6, SASL authentication, a nick list and DCC. The interface offers 256 colors, horizontal and vertical splits, smart filtering and customizable bars.

Scripts can be written in eight languages and installed with a built-in script manager. A running WeeChat instance can be reached remotely from a browser, a phone, a GUI client, Emacs or another WeeChat. Releases come regularly on a published schedule, and the documentation is translated into several languages.

Strengths

  • Full-featured IRC support including SASL and DCC
  • Scripting in eight languages with a script manager
  • Remote interfaces for browser, phone and GUI clients
  • Regular releases on a published schedule

Limitations

  • Terminal only, with a learning curve for new users
  • IRC is the main built-in protocol

Details

Pricing
FreeFree software; the project accepts donations.
License
GPL-3.0
Developer
The WeeChat contributors
Platforms
Linux, Command line
How it runs
Downloadable app
Account
Not required
Best suited for
IRC users who want a scriptable client they can keep running on a server
Categories
Messaging
Last verified
Added
Provenance
Facts checked against the developer's own pages and store listings, 1 sources on file.

Alternatives to WeeChat

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Software that can replace WeeChat for an important use case, and what changes if you switch.

  • Irssi

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  • Halloy

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    Halloy is a graphical IRC client for Windows, macOS and Linux with broad IRCv3 support, configured by editing a TOML file rather than scripting.

  • Konversation

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    Konversation is a graphical KDE IRC client with DCC transfers and a beginner-friendly interface, for Windows and Linux.

  • mIRC

    A long-running Windows client for chatting on Internet Relay Chat networks, sold as shareware.

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    mIRC is a long-running graphical IRC client for Windows only, sold as proprietary shareware requiring registration.

  • Textual

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    Textual is a paid, native macOS IRC client with IRCv3 support, OTR encryption and scriptable addons.

  • Pidgin

    A chat client that signs in to several networks at once, supporting XMPP, IRC, Matrix and more through plugins.

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    Pidgin is a graphical multi-network client covering IRC, XMPP and more through plugins, with an older interface and infrequent releases.

Similar software

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