Free open-source text & code editor
Notepad++ is a free, open-source text and source code editor. Written in the C++ programming language, Notepad++ prides itself in paring down on unnecessary features and streamlining processes to create a light and efficient text notepad program. In practical terms, this means high speed and an accessible, user-friendly interface.
Notepad++ has been around for nearly two decades and shows no sign of losing popularity. Notepad definitely proves you don't need to invest in expensive software to code from the comfort of your own home. Try it for yourself and you'll understand why Notepad has endured for so long.
The classic standard for virtual notepads
Whether you're a serious coder or you're just looking for a sleek, lightweight text editor, Notepad++ fits the bill. Notepad++ has been around for a long while and has built up a community of devoted fans, and has been downloaded by millions of users. Being an open-source program, anyone with coding skills is free to access the code and tweak it to customize and make their own improvements to the program.
It also means that a host of informational resources and tools are easily available on the web. Though newer code editors like Sublime are growing in popularity, Notepad++ remains a solid choice whether you're new to coding or an old veteran.
How do I use Notepad++?
If you're using Notepad++ as a plain text editor, using the program is as simple as opening it open and starting to type. Notepad++ includes a ton of default features that will make the writing and editing process much easier. This includes an autosave feature, line bookmarks, and the option to create a tabbed document interface.
These tools are particularly useful if you're editing your existing text, as they make marking and finding areas of your document a breeze. While certainly not a replacement for a more-feature heavy word processor, Notepad boasts major utility for writing for such a simple program.
Though it's an excellent text editor on its own, coding is where Notepad++ really shines. Notepad has a built-in ability to read a understand a whole host of code languages like C++, STL, Python, and many more.
You can also use Notepad++ to convert files written in one coding language to another. Simply transfer the code from one file into Notepad, and you'll easily be able to rewrite the code into a new language of your choice using Notepad's intuitive conversion features. Notepad allows for code folding, syntax highlighting, and autocompletion in some cases.
You can use the navigation features like split-screen and synchronized scrolling to move through your code with ease. You can then search your code, make edits on the fly, and do it all in a sleek, lightweight interface. It also boasts far more command features than other competitors such as Textpad.
Notepad++ also supports plugins and other add-ons, many created by users that take advantage of the program's open-source code. Notepad, in particular, makes it extremely easy to add plugins. In fact, new versions of Notepad have incorporated various plugins, and 10 user-created plugins are now included in the program by default.
Almost 150 more are available for download so you can tweak your experience as you see fit. Though newer coding programs like Sublime are garnering attention, it's this level of adaptability that has kept Notepad relevant among its competitors.
Using Notepad isn't just a good choice for coding, it's also a good choice for the planet. Notepad has long emphasized its commitment to a greener environment. By streamlining their interface, using Notepad puts less strain on your CPU compared to other programs. Less strain on your CPU means you consume less power, which means a greener environment and lower energy costs.
A must-have tool for writing and coding
Though there are many shiny new text editors like Sublime floating around the web, Notepad++ has endured for good reason. It's simple, reliable, and effective for both coding and word processing needs. This enduring classic will likely be around for many years to come.
Despite the fact that Notepad++ has been around for ages, it still receives regular updates and bug fixes available for download via the official website. The latest version offers enhanced security features as well as minor changes designed to improve ease-of-use.
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PROS
- Lightweight interface
- Tons of features
- Plugins
- Open source
CONS
- Only for Windows
- Steep learning curve
