
Tmux is not just a terminal multiplexer; it’s a canvas for your workflow, allowing you to customize your terminal experience with a range of striking themes. In this guide, we’ll explore a collection of visually appealing and functional themes that can transform your Tmux sessions into something spectacular.
1. Tmux Mining Box
Tmux-gruvbox draws inspiration from the popular Gruvbox themes to offer a cozy interface that’s easy on the eyes. Ideal for low-light environments, it provides a comfortable viewing experience, making long coding sessions much more pleasant.

With customizable options that allow for tweaks in appearance, Tmux Gruvbox is perfect for anyone desiring a retro, nostalgic terminal vibe. Here’s how to make it yours:
Open your Tmux configuration file:
nano ~/.tmux.conf
Add these lines to activate the theme:
set -g @plugin 'egel/tmux-gruvbox' set -g @tmux-gruvbox 'light'
Save your changes and restart Tmux. To install the theme, just hit Ctrl + B, then press Shift + I.

2. Tmux Nord
Bringing the chilling ambiance of the Arctic to your terminal, Tmux-nord offers a serene yet vibrant color palette. Its clean design makes it an exceptional choice for legibility, whether you’re coding in the comfort of your home or in a bright café.

Compatible with various Tmux plugins and TUI programs, Nord maintains a cohesive appearance throughout, allowing you to easily switch between it and a Nord-themed desktop. Installing this theme is straightforward—just add the following line to your Tmux configuration:
set -g @plugin 'nordtheme/nord-tmux'
After saving and restarting Tmux, apply the theme with Ctrl + B followed by Shift + I.

3. Tmux Dracula
If you’re after a show-stopping appearance, Tmux-dracula brings a high-contrast, dark mode aesthetic to your Tmux interface. This dynamic theme is visually appealing while enhancing readability with its striking purple tones.

Highly customizable through internal flags, Tmux-dracula gives users the flexibility to modify visual elements to their liking. To install, simply add this line to your config file:
set -g @plugin 'dracula/tmux'
Hit Ctrl + B, then Shift + I to apply your new look after a restart.

4. Tmux Tokyo Night
Inspired by the tranquil glow of Tokyo nightlife, Tmux-tokyo-night marries the visual charm of the Dracula theme with the subtle warmth of Gruvbox. Notably, it provides users with both dark and light color variants, catering to any environment or preference.

This theme stands out due to its built-in plugins, such as a weather applet right in your Tmux status bar. To install, simply enter the following into your Tmux config file:
set -g @plugin 'fabioluciano/tmux-tokyo-night' set -g @theme_variation 'night'
Restart Tmux and apply your new setup with Ctrl + B, then Shift + I.

5. Tmux Kanagawa
If you appreciate vivid colors that are also WCAG-compliant, Tmux-kanagawa is worth a try. Inspired by Hokusai’s art, this theme incorporates warm sepia tones along with the deep purples of Dracula, creating a rustic yet refreshing appearance.

With all the flexible features inherited from its upstream, Tmux-kanagawa allows for extensive customization. To set it up, add this code to your Tmux configuration:
set -g @plugin 'Nybkox/tmux-kanagawa' set -g @kanagawa-theme 'wave'
Reload Tmux and finalize the theme installation with Ctrl + B, followed by Shift + I.

Exploring and installing captivating themes for Tmux can significantly change how you interact with this robust terminal multiplexer. Don’t miss the chance to boost your productivity by incorporating useful plugins into your Tmux workflow!
Image credit: Lukas via Unsplash. All modifications and screenshots by Ramces Red.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are Tmux themes?
Tmux themes are customizable visual styles you can apply to your Tmux terminal sessions, enhancing the overall aesthetic and user experience. They can improve readability and provide different color schemes to suit your preferences.
2. How can I customize my Tmux theme?
You can personalize your Tmux theme by editing the `.tmux.conf` configuration file. Each theme typically offers various customization options, allowing you to tweak colors and other elements to fit your workflow.
3. Are these Tmux themes compatible with all plugins?
Most modern Tmux themes, including the ones listed here, are designed to be compatible with popular Tmux plugins. However, for the best experience, always check the theme documentation for compatibility details.
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