# Terminal UI Describe terminal UIs. > [!ai]+ AI > > Terminal User Interfaces (UIs) are text-based interfaces that allow users to interact with software by typing commands into a terminal or console. Unlike graphical user interfaces (GUIs), which use windows, icons, and graphics, terminal UIs are primarily text-based and rely on keyboard input. They are commonly used in Unix-like operating systems but can also be found in other systems such as DOS. > Terminal UIs provide a way for users to perform tasks more efficiently and quickly than GUIs, especially for complex tasks that require multiple steps. They are widely used by system administrators, developers, and other advanced users who need direct control over the system. A good understanding of the specific commands is usually required to operate terminal UIs effectively. ## Links ### Zeichenorientierte Benutzerschnittstellen - [Zeichenorientierte Benutzerschnittstelle – Wikipedia](https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zeichenorientierte_Benutzerschnittstelle) > [!ai]+ Claude > Here is a summary of the key points from the Wikipedia article on zeichenorientierte Benutzerschnittstellen (character-based user interfaces): > > - Zeichenorientierte Benutzerschnittstellen (TUIs) use text mode but make full use of the screen, unlike command-line interfaces. They allow the programmer to use only 256 different characters. > > - TUIs emerged as a distinction from command-line interfaces and graphical user interfaces. They are meant to imitate GUIs using characters to draw frames, menus, etc. Most can be used with a mouse but are fully keyboard-operable. > > - TUIs are implemented in languages like C with frameworks like ncurses, or Visual Basic in MS-DOS. Examples include text editors, media players, system tools, chat programs, file managers, and games. > > - TUIs have some advantages over GUIs for expert users or systems with limited resources, as they can provide information density and efficiency. But GUIs can be better for novice users. > > - Overall, TUIs make use of simple text to create an interactive user interface that imitates the graphical but works well on low-resource systems. They bridge the gap between command-line and graphical interfaces.