delta — Syntax-Highlighting Pager for Git Diff and Grep

What it is

delta is a syntax-highlighting pager for git, diff, grep, and ripgrep output. It provides side-by-side diffs with language-aware highlighting, line numbers, and customizable themes. It is a drop-in replacement for the default git pager.

delta targets developers who review diffs frequently and want a more readable experience than plain text. It understands language syntax, so changes in Python look different from changes in YAML, and inline changes within a line are highlighted precisely.

The project is actively maintained and suitable for both individual developers and teams looking to integrate it into their existing toolchain. Documentation and community support are available for onboarding.

How it saves time or tokens

delta makes code review faster by highlighting exactly what changed within each line, not just which lines changed. Side-by-side mode shows old and new code simultaneously. Language-aware highlighting means you can quickly parse the syntax of changed code without opening it in an editor.

How to use

1. Install delta via Homebrew (brew install git-delta), apt, or download from GitHub releases.
2. Configure git to use delta as the pager by adding settings to ~/.gitconfig.
3. Run git diff, git log -p, or git show as usual. delta activates automatically.
4. Customize themes and display options in your gitconfig.

Example

# ~/.gitconfig
[core]
    pager = delta

[interactive]
    diffFilter = delta --color-only

[delta]
    navigate = true
    side-by-side = true
    line-numbers = true
    syntax-theme = Dracula

[merge]
    conflictstyle = diff3

[diff]
    colorMoved = default

# After configuration, just use git normally
git diff
git log -p --follow src/main.rs
git show HEAD~3

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Common pitfalls

• Forgetting to install a compatible terminal. delta uses 24-bit color. Terminals that do not support true color show garbled output. Use iTerm2, Alacritty, Kitty, or Windows Terminal.
• Not setting navigate = true. Without it, you cannot use n/N to jump between diff sections, losing one of delta's best navigation features.
• Using delta with a light terminal theme but a dark syntax theme (or vice versa). Match your delta syntax-theme to your terminal background for readability.
• Not reading the changelog before upgrading. Breaking changes between versions can cause unexpected failures in production. Pin your version and review release notes.