Notepad++ vs Visual Studio Code: Which is Better 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.
Bottom line: Visual Studio Code is our overall pick for ide & code editors workflows. Pick Notepad++ if you need a fully free option.
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
Fast, lightweight, and customizable code editor for all languages
Best for you if:
- • Free, open-source code editor by Microsoft
- • Extensive marketplace with thousands of extensions
| At a Glance |  Notepad++ |  Visual Studio Code |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Free | Free |
Best For | IDE & Code Editors | IDE & Code Editors |
Rating | - | - |
Choose Notepad++ or Visual Studio Code?
Choose Notepad++ if
Free source code editor for Windows
- Free and lightweight
- Fast startup
- Good syntax highlighting
Choose Visual Studio Code if
Fast, lightweight, and customizable code editor for all languages
- Free and open source
- Huge extension ecosystem
- Cross-platform
| Feature | Notepad++ | Visual Studio Code |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| User Rating | ★4.7/5 4,463 reviews | ★4.8/5 4,250 reviews |
| Categories | IDE & Code EditorsWriting & Content | IDE & Code EditorsDeveloper Tools |
In-Depth Analysis
Notepad++
Free source code editor for Windows
Strengths
- +Free and lightweight
- +Fast startup
- +Good syntax highlighting
- +Plugin support
- +Windows standard
Weaknesses
- -Windows only
- -Basic IDE features
- -UI dated
- -Limited modern features
- -Not for large projects
Key features
Visual Studio Code
Fast, lightweight, and customizable code editor for all languages
Strengths
- +Free and open source
- +Huge extension ecosystem
- +Cross-platform
Weaknesses
- -Can be resource heavy
- -Microsoft telemetry
Key features
Pricing: Notepad++ vs Visual Studio Code
| Plan | Notepad++ | Visual Studio Code |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | Free Free (Open Source) |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Notepad++ pricing and Visual Studio Code pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Notepad++
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Notepad++
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?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Visual Studio Code
- Higher user rating: 4.8/5 vs 4.7/5
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Notepad++
- Larger review base (4,463 reviews)
The Bottom Line
Visual Studio Code is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Notepad++ or Visual Studio Code better?
Visual Studio Code is rated 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: Fast, lightweight, and customizable code editor for all languages.
What does Notepad++ cost vs Visual Studio Code?
Notepad++ is completely free. Visual Studio Code is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.