If you’re looking for a powerful and visually appealing system monitor, Bpytop is one of the best tools available. It provides real-time insights into CPU usage, memory, disk activity, and running processes—all within a beautiful terminal interface.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to install Bpytop on Linux, Ubuntu, macOS, and even Windows, step by step.
What is Bpytop?
Bpytop is a Python-based system resource monitor designed to give users detailed performance statistics in real time. It’s an enhanced version of tools like htop and Bashtop, offering a smoother interface and better customization.
Key Features:
- Real-time CPU, RAM, disk, and network monitoring
- Interactive process manager
- Custom themes and UI
- Mouse support and keyboard navigation
- Lightweight yet powerful
System Requirements
Before installing Bpytop, make sure you have:
- Python 3.6 or higher
- A terminal emulator
- Internet connection
How to Install Bpytop on Linux
Installing Bpytop on Linux is simple and works on most distributions.
Method 1: Using Package Manager (Recommended)
For Ubuntu / Debian:
sudo apt update
sudo apt install bpytop
For Arch Linux:
sudo pacman -S bpytop
For Fedora:
sudo dnf install bpytop
Method 2: Install via Python (pip)
If it’s not available in your repo:
pip3 install bpytop
How to Install Bpytop on Ubuntu
On Ubuntu, installation is straightforward:
sudo apt update
sudo apt install bpytop
After installation, launch it with:
bpytop
How to Install Bpytop on macOS
You can install Bpytop on macOS using Homebrew.
Step 1: Install Homebrew (if not installed)
/bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/HEAD/install.sh)"
Step 2: Install Bpytop
brew install bpytop
Run:
bpytop
How to Install Bpytop on Windows
Bpytop doesn’t run natively on Windows, but you can still use it via Linux environments.
Option 1: Use Windows Subsystem for Linux
- Enable WSL:
wsl --install
- Install Ubuntu inside WSL
- Then run:
sudo apt update
sudo apt install bpytop
Option 2: Use Docker (Advanced)
You can also run Bpytop inside a container:
docker run -it --rm bpytop
How to Use Bpytop
Once installed, simply type:
bpytop
Basic Controls:
- ESC / q → Exit
- Arrow Keys → Navigate
- Enter → Expand sections
- M → Sort processes by memory
- P → Sort by CPU
Tips for Better Performance
- Use a modern terminal for smooth animations
- Close unnecessary background apps
- Enable themes for better readability
Common Issues & Fixes
1. Command Not Found
Make sure Python or package path is added:
export PATH=$PATH:~/.local/bin
2. Python Version Error
Upgrade Python:
python3 --version
Bpytop Alternatives
If you want similar tools, check out:
- btop (C++ version, faster)
- htop (classic and lightweight)
Conclusion
Bpytop is an excellent system monitoring tool that combines performance with a beautiful interface. Whether you’re using Linux, Ubuntu, macOS, or Windows (via WSL), installation is quick and easy.
If you want a modern, feature-rich terminal monitor, Bpytop is definitely worth trying.