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delta

Git & GitHubGit

Readable diffs, git pager, and syntax highlighting from the terminal.

Readable diffs, git pager, and syntax highlighting from the terminal. Built by Dan Davison.

Task fit

readable diffs, git pager, and syntax highlighting from the terminal.

Lane

Review PRs, triage issues, inspect workflows, and keep repo work agent-safe.

Operator brief

Use delta for readable diffs, git pager, and syntax highlighting from the terminal.

Run `git -c core.pager=delta diff` and see what comes back.

Repository family

Dan Davison

First trust check

delta responds locally and is ready for the first real command.

Safe first loop

Install, verify, then run one real command.

GitHub review loop

Install command

$ brew install git-delta

Operator pack

Copy or export the working notes for this CLI before handing it to an agent.

Verify

$ delta --version

delta responds locally and is ready for the first real command.

First real command

$ git -c core.pager=delta diff

First steps

  1. 01Install delta.
  2. 02Run `delta --version` first.
  3. 03Start with `git -c core.pager=delta diff`.
  4. 04Install the CLI and make sure it is on your PATH.

When to use / hold off when

Best for

readable diffs, git pager, and syntax highlighting from the terminal.

Use this when

You work with git workflows and want a fast terminal interface.

Hold off when

You don't work with git workflows.

Trust and constraints

trusted100/100
Install readyTrusted
JSON outputNo
Non-interactiveYes
CI-friendlyNo

Why operators pick it

  • delta fits git & github well, especially for readable diffs, git pager, and syntax highlighting from the terminal.
  • 13,795 homebrew installs (30d).
  • Easy to automate.

Constraints

  • Output is mostly plain text.
  • Better for local use than CI.

Repository context

Other CLIs in this family

This is the only CLI surfaced from this family right now.

Facts and links

Install withbrew
Homebrew installs (30d)13.8K
GitHub stars29.7K
LicenseMIT
UpdatedMar 22, 2026