Changing Modifiers

Zellij uses two different modifiers to distinguish between two main sets of actions.

The Primary Modifier (default: Ctrl)

This modifier is used to access the different modes (eg. Pane and Tab). Its exact usage depends on one's preset.

The Secondary Modifier (default: Alt)

This modifier is used for common shortcuts (eg. Alt n to open a new pane or Alt f to toggle floating panes).

Rebinding Modifiers

rebinding modifiers configuration Other than manually configuring keybindings, modifiers can be changed without overriding the current configuration through the Configuration screen, accessible with:

  • Ctrl o + c in the default preset
  • Ctrl g + o + c in the Unlock-First preset

For the Unlock-First preset, one can change the Unlock Toggle entirely.

A note about multiple modifiers

While it's certainly possible to change these modifiers to Ctrl Alt, Super or even Ctrl Shift Alt - these all require the usage of a terminal emulator which itself supports multiple modifiers. Examples include: Alacritty, WezTerm and foot.