As a software developer, my daily workflow involves running large numbers of terminal sessions simultaneously (tmux, multi-project workspaces, automation scripts, node-pty connections, etc.). The default PTY limit of 511 is far too low for modern development workflows. Furthermore, this default value is identical across all hardware — a maxed-out Mac Pro with 128GB RAM has the same 511 limit as a base-model MacBook Air, which doesn't scale with hardware capabilities.
I've tried tmux control mode to reduce PTY usage, but it causes terminal output alignment issues that make it impractical for daily use. This means I must use PTY mode, and hitting the 511 ceiling is a frequent occurrence. Once the limit is reached, no new terminals can be created system-wide — not just in my app, but across Terminal.app, iTerm2, VS Code, and any other terminal-dependent process. This becomes a system-wide stability issue.
Summary:
511 is an outdated default for modern developer workflows
No hardware-aware scaling — same limit regardless of RAM/CPU
control mode is not a viable workaround due to output alignment issues
Hitting the limit breaks the entire system, not just one application
Could Apple consider:
Raising the hard limit significantly (e.g., 2000+) or making it dynamic based on available resources?
Updating the default to a higher value more appropriate for modern hardware?
Thank you.
Topic:
App & System Services
SubTopic:
Core OS