Discover Windows' Hidden Gem: The Enhanced Notepad App from the Microsoft Store (It's Free)
Windows users have been loyal to the built-in Notepad for years—quickly pasting text, stripping formatting, or glancing at config files. But Microsoft has quietly released a far superior Notepad app on the Microsoft Store, available at no extra cost. This updated version brings modern features like tabs, dark mode, and improved performance, all while remaining as lightweight as the original. If you've been settling for sufficient, it's time to explore what a truly capable text editor can do.
What is the new Windows Notepad app from the Microsoft Store?
The new Windows Notepad app is a free, enhanced version of the classic text editor, distributed through the Microsoft Store. Unlike the original Notepad that ships with Windows, this app receives regular updates and includes features like tabbed editing, dark mode, and improved search and replace. It maintains the same simple, distraction-free interface but adds functionality that power users have long requested. The app is designed to replace the old Notepad, though both can coexist. It's ideal for quick note-taking, editing code, or handling plain text files without the bloat of a full word processor.
How can I get the new Notepad on my Windows PC?
Getting the new Notepad is straightforward. Open the Microsoft Store from your Start menu, search for "Notepad," and you'll see the official Microsoft Corporation app titled Notepad. Click Get or Install to download it for free. Alternatively, you can visit the Microsoft Store webpage for Notepad and install it remotely. After installation, the app will appear in your Start menu and can be pinned to the taskbar. It works on Windows 10 and Windows 11, and it automatically updates via the Store, ensuring you always have the latest features.
What new features does the modern Notepad offer?
The modern Notepad app brings several improvements over the classic version:
- Tabbed interface: Open multiple files in a single window, each with its own tab.
- Dark mode: Switch to a dark theme that's easier on the eyes, especially in low-light environments.
- Enhanced find and replace: Supports regular expressions (regex) and case-sensitive searches.
- Auto-save and session restore: Automatically saves your work and restores unsaved files after a crash.
- Line numbers: Displays line numbers in the gutter for easier navigation.
- Word wrap toggle: Quickly enable or disable word wrap.
- Adjustable zoom: Use Ctrl+Mouse wheel to zoom in/out.
These features make it far more versatile than the classic Notepad while keeping the same lightweight feel.
Is the new Notepad free to use?
Yes, the updated Notepad app is completely free. There are no hidden charges, in-app purchases, or subscription fees. Microsoft offers it as a direct replacement for the classic Notepad, and it's available to all Windows users. You don't need a Microsoft account to install it, though you may be prompted to sign in to the Store. The app is ad-free and respects your privacy, with no telemetry tracking beyond standard diagnostic data. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone who wants a better text editor without spending money or dealing with third-party software.
How does the new Notepad compare to the classic version?
Compared to the classic Notepad, the new Store version is a significant upgrade. The classic Notepad has remained virtually unchanged for decades—it lacks tabs, dark mode, and modern search capabilities. The new app introduces all those features (see What new features does the modern Notepad offer?). While the classic Notepad is still available for compatibility, the new version is faster, more stable, and integrates better with Windows 11's design language. Both apps open the same file types, but the new one supports larger files and handles Unicode encoding more reliably. If you're used to the old Notepad, the transition is seamless; the familiar keyboard shortcuts and menu structure remain intact.
Does the new Notepad work on older versions of Windows?
Yes, the new Notepad app is compatible with Windows 10 (version 1809 or later) and Windows 11. If you're running an older version like Windows 8.1 or 7, you won't be able to install it from the Microsoft Store. For those systems, alternatives like Notepad++ or Notepad2 offer similar features. However, Microsoft recommends upgrading to Windows 10 or 11 for the best experience. The app is designed to run on both x86 and ARM processors, so it works on Surface Pro X and similar devices. Once installed, it can open files from any location, including network drives and cloud folders synced with OneDrive.