Plain Text Editor
Simple distraction-free notepad
Simple text editor without any rich text nonsense. The simplicity is a feature.
It won’t handle your 1 million line log file, but it is a nice way to write down some ideas.
Help test out the new iOS version: https://testflight.apple.com/join/jcwxWth4
Frequently Asked Questions
I have a feature request, bug report, or some feedback
How is it better than TextEdit?
- Editor padding
- Optimal line spacing and length
- Word count
- Hide the title bar
- Translucent background
- Window can stay on top
- Force dark/light mode
- Brain dump mode
Spellchecking does not work
This is a macOS bug. You can see the same problem in the built-in TextEdit app too.
Can you add Markdown syntax highlighting?
I don’t plan to add that as I want to keep the app simple. I do plan to make a proper Markdown editor at some point, but that’s not this app.
Can you add a typewriter mode (centered text)?
I don’t plan to add that.
The text sometimes jumps when I write fast
This is a macOS bug. There is unfortunately nothing I can do about it.
Does the app support tabs on macOS?
Yes. Click “View › Show Tab Bar” in the menu bar and then click the plus button in the window.
You can also press Command + N if you have tabs enabled for document apps.
Can I keep it in the menu bar?
No, that’s not supported. However, you may be interested in my Scratchpad app.
How can I make the app preserve open documents when I quit on macOS?
This is already how it works. Actually, it’s how all document-based apps on macOS work. Make sure you don’t have “System Settings › Desktop & Dock › Close windows when quitting an application” enabled.
I have enabled the translucent setting on the macOS app, why is the title bar not translucent?
Making the title bar translucent is not supported by macOS. I’m hoping to find a workaround in the future.
How does “brain dump mode” help with creativity?
It helps you focus on the actual writing, instead of getting distracted with editing and nitpicking. Learn more.
When I save a file using the popover in the title bar on macOS, it always appends .txt when I choose a different file extension
This is a macOS bug. Instead, save the file from the “File” menu or by pressing Command + S.
How can I toggle “Stay on Top” with a keyboard shortcut on macOS?
The keyboard shortcut is listed in the “Window” menu in the menu bar.
Can I open a text file directly from the command-line?
Make a shell alias:
alias pte="open -a 'Plain Text Editor'"
Usage:
pte unicorn.txt
Can you add a text color setting?
I don’t plan to add that. It’s not essential and I’m trying to keep the app simple.
The text flickers a little bit when it wraps on a new line
This is unfortunately a macOS bug and out of my control.
Why is there no way to print?
The app is made using Apple’s latest technologies (SwiftUI) and they have not added print support there yet. If you need to print, open the document in TextEdit instead. Sorry for the inconvenience.
Why is it suddenly showing a scrollbar?
You either have a system setting set to always show scrollbars or you have an external mouse connected. This is simply how macOS works. You can see the behavior in other text editing apps too. See the “Appearance › Show scroll bars” system setting.
The “Check Spelling While Typing” setting in the context menu does not work
This is unfortunately a macOS bug and not something I can fix.
If you work at Apple → FB13607434
Can you add line numbers?
This is out of scope for this app.
How can I export, import, sync, or back up the settings?
Why is this free without ads?
I just enjoy making apps. Consider leaving a nice review on the App Store.
Can you localize the app into my language?
I don’t plan to localize the app.
More FAQs…
Older Versions
- 1.3.2 for macOS 13+
Non-App Store Version
A special version for users that cannot access the App Store. It won’t receive automatic updates. I will update it here once a year.
Download (1.4.0)
Requires macOS 14 or later