Notepad++ vs Visual Studio Code: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Notepad++ and Visual Studio Code comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Notepad++
Free source code editor for Windows
Best for you if:
- • Notepad++ is a free source code editor and Notepad replacement
- • It provides syntax highlighting for 80+ languages with plugin support
Visual Studio Code
Free code editor by Microsoft
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.4/10 vs 7.6/10)
- • Free, open-source code editor by Microsoft
- • Extensive marketplace with thousands of extensions
| At a Glance |  Notepad++ |  Visual Studio Code |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | IDE & Code Editors | IDE & Code Editors |
Rating | 76/100 | 94/100 |
| Feature | Notepad++ | Visual Studio Code |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 76 | 94 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 101 |
| Categories | IDE & Code EditorsFile Management | IDE & Code EditorsDebugging |
How Notepad++ and Visual Studio Code Compare
Notepad++
Free source code editor for Windows
Free · 76/100 score
Visual Studio Code
Free code editor by Microsoft
Free · 94/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Notepad++
Want the highest-rated option?
Notepad++: 76/100. Visual Studio Code: 94/100.
Go with: Visual Studio Code
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Visual Studio Code
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are free. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are ide & code editors tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Visual Studio Code scores higher: 94/100 vs 76/100.
Key Takeaways
Visual Studio Code
- Higher score: 94/100 vs 76
- More community upvotes (101)
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Notepad++
The Bottom Line
Visual Studio Code (94/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Notepad++ or Visual Studio Code better?
Visual Studio Code scores 94/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Notepad++ and Visual Studio Code used for?
Notepad++: Free source code editor for Windows. Visual Studio Code: Free code editor by Microsoft.
What does Notepad++ cost vs Visual Studio Code?
Notepad++ is completely free. Visual Studio Code is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.