LinuxCommandLibrary

bpytop

Monitor system resources in an interactive interface

TLDR

Start bpytop

$ bpytop
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Start in minimal mode without memory and networking boxes
$ bpytop -m
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Toggle minimal mode
$ <m>
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Search for running programs or processes
$ <f>
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Change settings
$ <M>
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Display version
$ bpytop -v
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SYNOPSIS

bpytop [-h|--help] [-v|--version] [-c PATH|--config PATH] [--debug] [--cpu-model]

PARAMETERS

-h, --help
    Show help message and exit

-v, --version
    Show version information and exit

-c PATH, --config PATH
    Path to alternative config file
default: ~/.config/bpytop/bpytop.conf

--debug
    Enable debug logging to bpytop.log in config directory

--cpu-model
    Print detected CPU model information and exit

DESCRIPTION

bpytop is a fully featured, advanced resource monitor for terminal environments on Linux, macOS, and FreeBSD. It provides real-time graphical visualizations of key system metrics including CPU usage with per-core graphs, memory and swap utilization, disk I/O, network throughput, and detailed process lists. Features include mouse support, customizable themes, presets for layouts (e.g., compact, extended), process trees, and the ability to kill/send signals to processes directly. Written in Python 3, it offers a modern, responsive interface superior to traditional tools like top, with smooth animations, color-coded meters, and extensive configuration options via a dedicated config file. Ideal for monitoring servers, desktops, or embedded systems, bpytop emphasizes aesthetics and usability while remaining lightweight.

CAVEATS

Requires Python 3.7+, psutil library; may have higher CPU usage than native tools like htop on low-end hardware.
Not all features work on non-Linux systems.

INSTALLATION

pip install bpytop
or package managers: apt install bpytop (some distros)

KEY CONTROLS

F1: Help | F2: Options | F3: Search | F5: Sort | F6: Filter | Mouse: Drag/click supported

HISTORY

Developed by aristocratos starting in 2020 as a Python rewrite/enhancement of bashtop. Gained popularity for its visuals and features; superseded by faster C++ btop in 2021, but remains actively maintained for Python users.

SEE ALSO

htop(1), top(1), btop(1), bashtop(1)

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