KWrite
KWrite: A free, flexible editor for plain text and source files across three platforms. Ranked #16 of 82 in Text Editors by our editors (7.9/10); pricing: Free plan; best for users wanting a simple free multi-platform editor.
At a glance
- Editor score7.9 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forUsers wanting a simple free multi-platform editor
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Multi-cursor editingYes
- Founded1996
- Facts checked22 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free and open source across Linux, Windows, and macOS
- Multiple cursors, column selection, folding, and bookmarks
- Syntax highlighting, plugins, Vi mode, and search and replace
Where it doesn't
- Focused on text and source-file editing rather than a full IDE workflow
- Plugin support can add configuration work for users wanting a fixed setup
- Vi input mode may not suit users who prefer only conventional editing
Our verdict on KWrite
KWrite is an open-source text editor from KDE for editing plain text and source files. It is suited to users who want a free desktop editor with practical code-editing features across Linux, Windows, and macOS. Its feature set includes syntax highlighting by file type, word completion, automatic indentation, plugin support, optional Vi input mode, multiple cursors, block or column selection, code folding, bookmarks, and search and replace.
The published plans show a free, open-source product rather than a tiered commercial offering. KWrite is distributed for Linux, with official installers also listed for Windows and macOS, making it a straightforward fit for users who work across those operating systems. The lack of paid tiers keeps the product simple for individual use, while plugin support provides a way to extend the editor beyond its default capabilities. Users looking for commercial plan management or a packaged team service should consider a product built around those needs instead.
KWrite’s strongest area is focused editing depth: multiple cursors, column selection, folding, bookmarks, configurable editing behavior, and the shared KatePart component give it more flexibility than a minimal plain-text editor. The optional Vi input mode also supports users who prefer modal editing. At the same time, KWrite remains centered on text and source-file work rather than a full IDE workflow. Users who need an editor with broader development tooling should look elsewhere; users seeking a capable, free, multi-platform text editor should find KWrite a focused option.
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KWrite pricing
KWrite fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Supported platforms | Linux, Windows, macOS |
| Multi-cursor editing | Yes |
| Macro recording | Not verified |
| Column editing | Yes |
| Large-file handling | Not verified |
| Extension support | Yes |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Support | Docs, Community |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | apps.kde.org |
| Facts checked | 22 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to KWrite
- Visual Studio CodeA free, open-source editor with broad development features across desktop and web.9.4
- NeovimA free, open-source editor for keyboard-driven workflows and deep customization.9.3
- GNU EmacsA mature, highly customizable editor for users who value breadth and control.9.2
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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