showmd vs iA Writer: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between showmd and iA Writer 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
showmd
The most readable way to preview any .md file on macOS, enhancing Quick Look with rich rendering.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need developer tools features specifically
- • Enhances macOS Quick Look to beautifully render Markdown files.
- • Supports GitHub Flavored Markdown, LaTeX, Mermaid diagrams, and AI-specific XML tags.
iA Writer
The benchmark Markdown writing app designed for focused, distraction-free writing.
Best for you if:
- • You need writing apps features specifically
- • Distraction-free Markdown writing environment with Focus Mode.
- • Advanced editor tools like Syntax Highlight and Style Check for improving writing quality.
| At a Glance |  showmd |  iA Writer |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | Custom |
Best For | Developer Tools | Writing Apps |
Rating | - | 4.4/5 |
Choose showmd or iA Writer?
Choose showmd if
The most readable way to preview any .md file on macOS, enhancing Quick Look with rich rendering.
- Significantly improves Markdown preview readability on macOS
- Supports advanced Markdown features like LaTeX and Mermaid diagrams
- Integrates seamlessly with macOS Quick Look for instant access
- You want a fully free tool (iA Writer requires payment)
- Your work is developer tools-shaped, not writing apps-shaped
Choose iA Writer if
The benchmark Markdown writing app designed for focused, distraction-free writing.
- Distraction-free writing
- Focus mode excellent
- Cross-platform
- Your work is writing apps-shaped, not developer tools-shaped
| Feature | showmd | iA Writer |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.4/5 68 reviews |
| Categories | Developer ToolsDocumentation | Writing AppsProductivity |
In-Depth Analysis
showmd
The most readable way to preview any .md file on macOS, enhancing Quick Look with rich rendering.
Strengths
- +Significantly improves Markdown preview readability on macOS
- +Supports advanced Markdown features like LaTeX and Mermaid diagrams
- +Integrates seamlessly with macOS Quick Look for instant access
- +Open-source, free, and privacy-focused with no data collection
- +Lightweight and fast, designed purely for viewing
Weaknesses
- -Only available for macOS
- -Not an editor or note-taking app, purely a viewer
Key features
iA Writer
The benchmark Markdown writing app designed for focused, distraction-free writing.
Strengths
- +Distraction-free writing
- +Focus mode excellent
- +Cross-platform
- +Good markdown
- +One-time purchase
Weaknesses
- -Limited features
- -Basic organization
- -No collaboration
- -Sync setup manual
- -Not for complex documents
Key features
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
showmd is free. iA Writer is paid.
Go with: showmd
Want the highest-rated option?
iA Writer is rated 4.4/5. showmd has no ratings yet.
Go with: iA Writer
Value user reviews?
showmd: no ratings yet. iA Writer: 68 reviews (4.4/5).
Go with: iA Writer
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
showmd is free. iA Writer is paid. Go with showmd if free matters most.
What's your use case?
showmd is a developer tools tool. iA Writer is in writing apps. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
iA Writer is rated 4.4/5; showmd has no ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
iA Writer
- Our pick for this comparison
showmd
- Completely free
- Better fit for developer tools
The Bottom Line
iA Writer is our pick. That said, showmd is free, hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is showmd or iA Writer better?
iA Writer is rated in our evaluation. showmd is free and iA Writer is paid.
What are showmd and iA Writer used for?
showmd: The most readable way to preview any .md file on macOS, enhancing Quick Look with rich rendering.. iA Writer: The benchmark Markdown writing app designed for focused, distraction-free writing..
What does showmd cost vs iA Writer?
showmd is completely free. iA Writer is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.