Open In App

Difference between CLI and GUI

Last Updated : 30 Aug, 2024
Comments
Improve
Suggest changes
Like Article
Like
Report

A Command Line Interface (CLI) and a Graphical User Interface (GUI) are two distinct methods for interacting with computer systems and software. CLI allows users to execute commands by typing them into a terminal or console providing precise control and efficiency but requiring knowledge of command syntax. In contrast, GUI offers a visual interface with elements like windows, icons, and buttons making it more intuitive and user-friendly by allowing users to interact through graphical representations. While CLI excels in environments where precision and speed are critical GUI enhances usability and accessibility through its visual and interactive design.

What is CLI?

is the word form used for the Command Line Interface. CLI permits users to put in writing commands associated with degree exceedingly in the terminal or console window to interact with an operating system. CLI is a platform or medium where users answer a visible prompt by writing a command and get the response from the system, for this users have to be compelled to kind command or train of command for performing the task. CLI is suitable for pricey computing wherever input exactitude is the priority.

CLI

What is GUI?

GUI stands for Graphical User Interface. GUI permits users to use the graphics to interact with an operating system. In the graphical user interface, menus are provided such as windows, scrollbars, buttons, wizards, painting pictures, alternative icons, etc. It’s intuitive, simple to find out, and reduces psychological feature load. In GUI, the information is shown or presented to the user in any form such as: plain text, videos, images, etc.

GUI

Difference Between GUI and CLI

CLI GUI
CLI is difficult to use. Whereas it is easy to use.
It consumes low memory. While consuming more memory.
In CLI we can obtain high precision. While in it, low precision is obtained.
CLI is faster than GUI. The speed of GUI is slower than CLI.
CLI operating system needs only a keyboard. While GUI operating system needs both a mouse and keyboard.
CLI’s appearance can not be modified or changed. While its appearance can be modified or changed.
In CLI, input is entered only at a command prompt. While in GUI, the input can be entered anywhere on the screen.
In CLI, the information is shown or presented to the user in plain text and files. While in GUI, the information is shown or presented to the user in any form such as: plain text, videos, images, etc.
In CLI, there are no menus provided. While in GUI, menus are provided.
There are no graphics in CLI. While in GUI, graphics are used.
CLI do not use any pointing devices. While it uses pointing devices for selecting and choosing items.
In CLI, spelling mistakes and typing errors are not avoided. Whereas in GUI, spelling mistakes and typing errors are avoided.
Some command-line environments provide multitasking but it is complicated to see several things on one screen. GUI enables a user to easily observe and operate various things at once.
CLI enables a user to simply script a series of instructions to carry out a task or execute a program. GUI does not provide the facility to script a sequence of commands.

Conclusion

Command Line Interfaces (CLI) and Graphical User Interfaces (GUI) offer unique advantages and cater to different user needs. CLI provides a powerful efficient way to perform tasks with high precision and low resource consumption making it ideal for advanced users and scenarios requiring detailed control. Conversely GUI enhances usability and accessibility through its visual elements making interactions more intuitive and user-friendly though it may consume more system resources and operate at a slower pace. The choice between CLI and GUI depends on the specific requirements of the task user proficiency and the operating environment.



Next Article
Difference between Blu-ray and DVD

M
MKS075
Improve
Article Tags :

Similar Reads

We use cookies to ensure you have the best browsing experience on our website. By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understood our Cookie Policy & Privacy Policy
Lightbox