Notepad++

Download Details

Version

8.9.8.1 (latest)

File size

6.64 MB

License

Free

Security scan

VirusTotal: 67 of 67 engines say OK (0 flagged)

SHA-256 checksum Copy

26f3bcced788fadbac4e7e577b430ea2ce6060cf3bcad993ef4612ecd7d743da

Developer

Don Ho

Supported OS

Windows 11, Windows 10

Installers

64-bit (x64), 32-bit (x86), ARM (Arm64), Portable, Offline

Downloads

9344

Rating

4.9 out of 5 · 101 reviews

File name(s)

npp.8.9.8.1.Installer.x64.exe, npp.8.9.8.1.Installer.exe, npp.8.9.8.1.Installer.arm64.exe, npp.8.9.8.1.portable.minimalist.x64.7z

Reviewed by Mohamed Zaki
Tested on Windows 11 and 10 · October 31, 2026 · How we review

Screenshots

Nicknamed “NPP” by its fans, Notepad++ for Windows is a programmer’s best friend disguised as a simple text editor. Unlike the basic Notepad included with Windows, NPP boasts an arsenal of features designed to streamline coding.

Born in 2003 from the mind of Don Ho, Notepad++ quickly gained popularity for its speed and functionality. At its heart, NPP functions as a code editor with a superpower – syntax highlighting. This nifty feature color-codes text based on its function (keywords, variables, comments), making code far easier to read and understand.

NPP’s magic doesn’t stop there. It supports a vast array of programming languages, from the common (C++) to the obscure (Assembly). Additionally, NPP offers features like code folding, macro recording, and powerful search functions, making it a one-stop shop for programmers of all levels.

Free, open-source, and constantly evolving, Notepad++ has cemented its place as a beloved tool for anyone who spends time crafting code on Windows.

Notepad++, a free and open-source code editor, has become the editor of choice for Windows users who want more than the basic functionality offered by the built-in Notepad application.

A Perfect Programmer’s Notepad

For programmers, Notepad++ goes beyond basic text editing. Syntax highlighting and code completion make writing code faster and more efficient.

Built-in support for common programming languages like C++, Java, and Python eliminates the need for separate language-specific editors.

Beyond Code

While catering to programmers, Notepad++’s utility extends beyond coding. Authors and writers benefit from features like automatic word wrap and customizable auto-completion.

For system administrators, the ability to edit configuration files and batch scripts proves invaluable.

Collaboration and Efficiency

The multi-document interface enables seamless work with multiple files simultaneously. Furthermore, built-in collaboration features like session snapshotting allow teams to easily share and resume editing projects.

Lightweight and Customizable

Despite its rich functionality, Notepad++ maintains a surprisingly lightweight footprint, ensuring smooth performance even on older machines.

The extensive plugin ecosystem further enhances its capabilities, allowing users to tailor the editor to their specific needs.

Is Notepad++ Available for Mac?

While Notepad++ reigns supreme on Windows, Mac users don’t have to miss out on the benefits of a powerful text editor. Several excellent alternatives exist, including Sublime Text and Brackets, which offer similar features and functionality.

Key Features

• Syntax Highlighting: Write code in over 70 languages with color-coded keywords, functions, and variables for improved readability and error detection.
• Powerful Search and Replace: Find and replace text across multiple files with advanced regular expression support.
• Tabbed Interface: Effortlessly switch between open files with a user-friendly tabbed interface.
• Macro Recording: Automate repetitive tasks with a macro recorder, saving you time and effort.
• Plugin Manager: Extend functionality with a vast library of plugins for tasks like code folding, version control integration, and code linters.

How to Download & Install

Here’s a comprehensive review exploring its download, installation, and the convenient portable version.

Download and Installation

Downloading Notepad++ is a breeze. Head over to our notepad++ download page, where you’ll find the latest stable version.

The installer is lightweight and straightforward, guiding you through the setup process. It’s worth noting that the installer offers customization options, allowing you to choose where to install and configure file associations.

The Power of Portability

A hidden gem within the download section is the portable version of Notepad++. This lets you store the entire application on a USB drive, making it usable on any Windows PC without installation.

This is perfect for developers who need a familiar code editor on the go or for situations where installing software isn’t an option.

The portable version boasts all the functionality of the installed version, minus any configuration changes saved on a specific machine.

Compatibility Check

• 64-bit Bliss: The 64-bit version of Notepad++ leverages the full potential of modern 64-bit Windows systems. This translates to smoother performance when handling large files or working with memory-intensive tasks.
• ARM Adaptation: The recent availability of an ARM version ensures smooth operation on ARM-based Windows devices like the Surface Pro X. This caters to the growing market of these sleek and portable machines.

Pros & Cons

Best Notepad++ Alternatives

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Conclusion

4.9★★★★★out of 5 · 101 user ratings

Notepad++ remains a compelling choice for Windows PC users, especially for programmers and anyone dealing with text files regularly.

Its feature-rich core, combined with its compatibility with both 64-bit and ARM architectures, makes it a versatile and adaptable text editor.

While it might lack some features of full-blown IDEs, its lightweight nature and intuitive interface make it a perfect companion for various text editing needs.

In Summary

• Powerful and feature-rich text editor
• Excellent syntax highlighting and code folding
• Extensive plugin ecosystem for customization
• Multi-view editing for efficient document comparison
• Native 64-bit and ARM versions for optimal performance

If you’re looking for a free, powerful, and adaptable text editor for your Windows PC, regardless of architecture, Notepad++ is a strong contender.

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Changelog - What's new in version 8.9.8.1

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