Configuration
Save common settings instead of repeating options.
tg and max are configurable. You can save everyday settings, change a value for one command,
or choose a different profile. Permissions are explained separately in Permissions.
The file
The tools create a starter config.json with common defaults when you first run a command that
loads settings. An existing file is preserved. Use these commands to see its path and current values:
tg config show
max config showYou can edit the file or use config set and config unset. Keep login credentials out of it;
use the login and model-provider setup commands instead.
| System | Telegram | MAX |
|---|---|---|
| Linux | ~/.config/tg-cli/config.json | ~/.config/max-cli/config.json |
| macOS | ~/Library/Application Support/tg-cli/config.json | ~/Library/Application Support/max-cli/config.json |
| Windows | %APPDATA%\tg-cli\config.json | %APPDATA%\max-cli\config.json |
Use tg.cmd and max.cmd in PowerShell. The commands above show the actual location if your
computer uses a custom directory.
Three ways to set a value
- File: a value stays saved for later commands.
tg config set limit 50saves a result limit. - Environment variable: a terminal can select a profile or command time limit for its session.
For example,
TG_PROFILEorMAX_PROFILEchooses a profile. Not every setting has a variable. - Command option: a flag such as
--limit 5changes only this invocation.
Which value wins?
A command option wins over an environment variable, then the selected profile's saved value, then shared file defaults, then the built-in value. Only the supported ways of setting that particular value take part. Each messenger's reference lists them.
A small configuration
{
"defaults": { "limit": 20, "sendsPerHour": 30 },
"profiles": { "work": { "limit": 50 } }
}tg work chats list or max work chats list uses 50. Add --limit 5 to get five for that command.
Removing the profile's value lets the shared default apply again.
What can I configure?
Common settings include the number of results, colour, recording, send limits and model providers.
Read the Telegram settings reference or MAX settings reference
for the available values and supported overrides. Use config show after a change to check the result.
Profiles and bots
A profile keeps settings for one account or bot. Put its name before the command, such as
tg work config show. Add bot to work as a bot rather than your personal account.
Profiles and bots explains choosing and switching them.