Linux: Configure tmux for better mouse support and copy/paste

If you are using tmux in a Ubuntu desktop terminal environment the following setup will help smooth out the “feel” of using tmux with multiple panes:

create a ~/.tmux.conf file:

nano ~/.tmux.conf

Add the following code into the file:

# Use vi keys in copy-mode
setw -g mode-keys vi

# Only redefine Enter and y inside copy-mode (not globally!)
bind -T copy-mode-vi Enter send-keys -X copy-pipe-and-cancel "xclip -in -selection clipboard"
bind -T copy-mode-vi y     send-keys -X copy-pipe-and-cancel "xclip -in -selection clipboard"

# Mouse support (optional)
set -g mouse on

Reload your tmux session:

tmux source-file ~/.tmux.conf

Test:

Test

Try Ctrl-b " → should still split horizontally.

Try Ctrl-b % → should still split vertically.

Try copy workflow:

Ctrl-b [ → enter copy-mode

Move cursor, press Space, move, press Enter → text now in Ubuntu clipboard.

Remember:

Enter copy-mode: Ctrl-b [

Move cursor with arrows or hjkl.

Press Space to start selecting.

Move to the end of text.

Press Enter → now it’s in your Ubuntu clipboard.

Paste anywhere in Ubuntu with Ctrl+Shift+V (terminal) or Ctrl+V (GUI apps).