Command-line interfaces(CLI) and graphic user interfaces(GUI) are user interfaces. An operating system provides GUI or CLI for the user to perform tasks. Some only provide CLI while others provide both GUI and CLI.
Here are a few differences between CLI and GUI:
| Command-line interface | Graphic-user interface |
|---|---|
| Easy for beginners | Requires good knowledge of commands |
| Interaction with the system is done using commands | Interaction with the system is done using graphical elements |
| Faster and more accurate | Slower and less accurate |
| Only the keyboard is required for the input | Both keyboard and mouse can be used for input |
| Less memory required for storage | More memory required as visual components are involved |
| Appearance remains the same over time | Structure and design can change with updates |
Both CLI and GUI are used according to user requirement, and so they have their own advantages and disadvantages. The GUI provides a higher degree of multitasking and efficiency; whereas, CLI provides more control, precision, and repeatability.