Is Notepad++ Better Than Notepad?

Over the last 11 years, I have been writing a lot of articles about using Notepad++ to ease a developer's life while working with text files. I thought it is a good time to answer this question with my own experience.

Notepad++ is undoubtedly one of the most powerful text and source code editors that offers several advantages over the standard Notepad application in Windows, here are a few reasons:

• Enhanced Features: Supports syntax highlighting for over 50 programming languages, code folding, and auto-completion.
• Plugins and Customization: Extend functionality through plugins for a tailored editing experience.
• User Interface: A more user-friendly and visually appealing interface with tabbed editing.
• Advanced Search and Replace: Offers powerful search and replace options, including regular expressions.
• Open Source: Free to use and regularly updated by a community of developers.

Pros and Cons: Notepad++ vs Microsoft Notepad App

How to Set Notepad++ as the Default Text Editor in Windows 10 and 11

1. Right-click on any .txt file and select Properties.
2. In the Properties window, find the Opens with section and click Change.
3. Select Notepad++ from the list. If it’s not there, click More apps, then Look for another app on this PC and navigate to the Notepad++ installation folder.
4. Check Always use this app to open .txt files and click OK.
5. Repeat for other text file types as needed.

In conclusion, Notepad++ stands out as a superior text and source code editor compared to the standard Notepad application. Its rich feature set, including syntax highlighting, plugin support, and a customizable interface, makes it an essential tool for developers and casual users alike. By setting Notepad++ as your default text editor, you can enhance your productivity and enjoy a more efficient editing experience.