linuxmasterrace

Zsh, an extended version of the Bourne Shell (sh), offers a plethora of compelling reasons why it surpasses Bash in terms of functionality and customization.

• Plugin and theme support: Zsh boasts a wide range of plugin frameworks and themes, allowing users to enhance their shell experience and tailor it to their specific needs. The popular Oh-My-Zsh framework is a testament to the vibrant plugin ecosystem available for Zsh.

• Automatic cd: Zsh simplifies directory navigation by enabling users to change directories simply by typing the name of the desired directory. This feature eliminates the need to type the "cd" command explicitly, saving time and keystrokes.

• Recursive path expansion: Zsh offers the convenience of shorthand path expansion, allowing users to expand a partial path to its full form recursively. This feature proves particularly useful when dealing with nested directory structures.

• Spelling correction and approximate completion: Zsh's intelligent auto-correction feature automatically fixes minor typos in directory names, ensuring smooth and error-free command execution. Additionally, Zsh's approximate completion feature suggests potential completions based on the entered command, further streamlining the workflow.

• Syntax highlighting: Zsh goes beyond mere text display by providing syntax highlighting for command lines, making complex commands more readable and easier to comprehend. This feature enhances code visibility and reduces the likelihood of syntax errors.

• Advanced scripting capabilities: Zsh offers a more powerful scripting language compared to Bash, enabling users to create intricate and sophisticated shell scripts. This flexibility opens up possibilities for automation and complex task execution.

• Enhanced customization: Zsh provides users with extensive customization options, allowing them to personalize their shell environment to suit their preferences. From prompt customization to theme selection, Zsh empowers users to create a shell experience that aligns with their workflow and aesthetic choices.

While Zsh undeniably offers a wealth of advantages, it is worth noting that it has a steeper learning curve compared to Bash, especially for users unfamiliar with advanced shell features. Additionally, Zsh consumes more memory due to its more complex data structures and advanced functionality.

sh scripts can be run in even the dumbest distro out there, bash, not so much

There are two massive points no one has mentioned yet.

• Quoting every expansion isn't necessary in Zsh. Parameters don't split or glob by default.
• $array actually expands to every element in an array.

Compare this between Bash and Zsh:

a=('/* hello */' 'world!' '  ')
printf '"%s" ' $a