Microsoft Edit
Microsoft Edit: An open-source terminal editor for straightforward text changes across desktop platforms. Ranked #63 of 82 in Text Editors by our editors (3.0/10); pricing: Free plan; best for users wanting a basic terminal editor with familiar keys.
At a glance
- Editor score3.0 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forUsers wanting a basic terminal editor with familiar keys
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Facts checked24 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Terminal-based editing with keyboard controls similar to VS Code
- Search and replace when ICU is available
- Open source under the MIT License, with binaries and a source-build path
Where it doesn't
- No extension support
- Search and replace depends on ICU availability
- The listed feature set focuses on basic terminal editing
Our verdict on Microsoft Edit
Microsoft Edit is an open-source text editor for people who want to make straightforward changes in a terminal without relying on unfamiliar command-line editing conventions. Its keyboard controls are similar to VS Code, and its description frames the interface as accessible, including to people new to terminal-based editing. The project is inspired by the classic MS-DOS Editor and is distributed under the MIT License. It is aimed at solo users and small teams needing a basic editor rather than an extensive development environment.
Platform coverage spans Windows, macOS and Linux, with downloadable release binaries. The project describes install options for Windows and macOS, plus an install script or source-build path for Linux; building from source uses Rust. That gives users a few ways to obtain the editor, though the precise path differs by platform. Its terminal focus is the defining fit: choose it when editing text from a terminal and familiar keyboard controls matter more than a broad application ecosystem.
The feature set includes search and replace, subject to ICU availability. Extension support is not part of the listed capabilities, so users who need to customize an editor with extensions or depend on advanced editing workflows should consider another tool. Microsoft Edit makes more sense for small, focused edits and for users who want a lightweight terminal option; it is less suited to people seeking an extensible editor or a feature-rich coding workspace. The published information describes the software as open source, rather than presenting a paid plan structure.
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Microsoft Edit pricing
Microsoft Edit fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Supported platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Multi-cursor editing | Not verified |
| Macro recording | Not verified |
| Column editing | Not verified |
| Large-file handling | Not verified |
| Extension support | No |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | github.com |
| Facts checked | 24 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Microsoft Edit
- 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
See all Microsoft Edit alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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