CotEditor is a free, open-source plain-text editor built exclusively for macOS. It offers a native macOS experience, ensuring it looks and behaves like a standard Mac application. Designed for speed, it launches quickly, allowing users to start writing immediately. This editor is ideal for developers, writers, and anyone who needs a robust yet simple text editing tool on their Mac. It provides essential features like syntax highlighting for over 50 languages, powerful find and replace capabilities using ICU regular expressions, and an intuitive settings window that eliminates the need for complex configuration files. Additional features include automatic document backup, an outline menu for quick navigation, split editor views, and a character inspector for Unicode data. It also supports scripting in various languages and offers CJK language friendliness, making it a versatile tool for a wide range of users.

Available on: macOS

LCLouis CorneloupUpdated May 26, 2026 · how we evaluateSourcecoteditor.com ↗

Key Features

Syntax Highlighting for over 50 languages
Powerful Find & Replace with ICU regular expressions
Settings via Click (no complex configuration files)
Auto Backup of unsaved data
Outline Menu for quick navigation
Split Editor for viewing multiple document parts
Character Inspector for Unicode data
Scriptable with Python, Ruby, Perl, PHP, UNIX shell, AppleScript, JavaScript

Pricing Plans

Pricing checked Sep 30, 2026

CotEditor plans and prices, checked September 2026
Plan	Price	Details
Free	Free	Syntax Highlighting Powerful Find & Replace Setting via Click +7 moreShow less Auto Backup Outline Menu Split Editor Character Inspector Scriptable Incompatible Characters CJK Language Friendly

View full pricing

Is CotEditor worth the price?

Great value

CotEditor offers a generous pricing model as it is completely free, which is exceptionally fair compared to other text editors.

This makes it an outstanding choice for any macOS user looking for a powerful plain-text editor without any cost. It's best for individual developers, writers, and students who need a reliable editor.

Full CotEditor pricing: every plan, hidden costs and alternatives

Reviews

Improve Your Thinking Patterns Using ChatGPT cover

$99Free with your review

Review CotEditor, get a free AI guide

Share your experience and we will send you Improve Your Thinking Patterns Using ChatGPT, free.

Write a review

Best CotEditor Alternatives

Top alternatives based on features, pricing, and user needs.

Sublime TextPaid

Lightning-fast code editing with multiple cursors and instant navigation

4.5

VimFree

Master text editing with unparalleled keyboard efficiency

4.4

BBEditFree

The leading professional HTML and text editor for macOS.

4.6

NovaPaid

A powerful and flexible native macOS code editor with integrated tools for development workflows.

4.3

See all IDE & code editors tools →

Still deciding?

Most buyers shortlist 2 or 3 tools before committing. Pull a side-by-side comparison or browse the full alternatives shortlist below.

CotEditor vs Sublime TextHead-to-head: features, pricing, who wins CotEditor vs VimHead-to-head: features, pricing, who wins CotEditor vs BBEditHead-to-head: features, pricing, who wins

Explore More

Best IDE & Code Editors Tools Best Writing Apps Best Productivity Tools Best Free IDE & Code Editors Best Free Writing Apps Best Free Productivity

CotEditor FAQ

Which regular expression engine does CotEditor utilize for its find and replace functionality?

CotEditor employs the ICU regular expression engine for its powerful find and replace capabilities. This allows for advanced pattern matching and text manipulation within documents.

Can users define custom syntax highlighting rules in CotEditor?

Yes, users can create their own syntax highlighting settings in CotEditor. In addition to the more than 50 pre-installed languages, this allows for personalized colorization based on specific needs.

How does CotEditor handle unsaved document data?

CotEditor automatically backs up documents while they are being edited. This feature prevents data loss, ensuring that unsaved changes are preserved.

What scripting languages are supported for creating macros in CotEditor?

CotEditor supports a variety of scripting languages for macro creation, including Python, Ruby, Perl, PHP, UNIX shell, AppleScript, and JavaScript. Users can choose their preferred language to automate tasks.

How does the 'Incompatible Characters' feature assist users?

The 'Incompatible Characters' feature helps users identify and list characters in their document that cannot be converted into a desired encoding. This ensures data integrity when working with different character sets.

What specific functionalities does CotEditor offer to support CJK languages?

CotEditor provides several features for CJK language support, including accurate estimation of various file encodings, a toggle for vertical text mode, and correct line height maintenance. These features enhance the editing experience for East Asian languages.

Source: coteditor.com

Guides & Articles

Best Free IDEs and Code Editors in 2026

Expert guide

Best AI Productivity Tools in 2026

Expert guide

Best Time Tracking Software in 2026

Expert guide