Powerful Text Editor for Windows Users: PSPad Review

PSPad is a versatile text editor with advanced features like syntax highlighting and code snippets.
PSPad Editor: The Ultimate Free Text and Code Editor for Windows
PSPad is a highly versatile and feature-rich freeware text editor designed specifically for Windows users. Developed by Jan Fiala, it caters to developers, coders, webmasters, and anyone who works extensively with text files or programming languages. With its extensive set of tools and customizable interface, PSPad continues to be a reliable companion for coding and text editing tasks.
Why Choose PSPad?
- Comprehensive Language Support: Supports syntax highlighting for numerous programming languages, making code easier to read and debug.
- User-Friendly Customization: Easily customize themes, fonts, and layout to enhance your workflow and reduce strain during long editing sessions.
- Advanced Features: Includes a built-in HEX editor, project management, FTP client, macro recorder, code explorer, and powerful search/replace functions.
- Automation Tools: Automate repetitive tasks using macros, templates, and clip files to improve productivity.
- File Comparison: Effortlessly compare text files to identify differences quickly — ideal for version control and quality checks.
Key Advantages
- Free and Open-Source: No restrictions or hidden costs; continually updated with bug fixes and new features.
- Lightweight & Portable: Fast performance on large projects, with a portable version available that runs from USB drives.
- Compatibility & Support: Supports a wide array of file types and programming languages, including HTML, PHP, JavaScript, C++, and more.
- Simplified Setup: Ready to use immediately after installation without complex configuration steps.
Limitations
- Windows-only Compatibility: Available exclusively for Windows OS, limiting cross-platform usage.
- Interface Appearance: Some users may find the user interface somewhat outdated compared to modern editors like VS Code or Sublime Text.
With its robust features and active development community, PSPad stands out as a powerful yet accessible tool for developers seeking a comprehensive free editor. Whether you are coding, web development, or managing text files, PSPad offers the flexibility and functionality needed to streamline your workflow effectively.
Overview
PSPad is a Freeware software in the category Development developed by Jan Fiala.
The users of our client application UpdateStar have checked PSPad for updates 377 times during the last month.
The latest version of PSPad is 5.5.1.825, released on 07/12/2025. It was initially added to our database on 08/27/2007. The most prevalent version is 5.5.1.825, which is used by 67% of all installations.
PSPad runs on the following operating systems: Windows. The download file has a size of 8.1MB.
Users of PSPad gave it a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.
Pros
- Free to use
- Supports syntax highlighting for a wide range of languages
- Offers tabbed interface for easy multi-file editing
- Includes various editing features such as code folding, macros, and spell checking
- Has built-in FTP client for easy file transfer
- Allows customization through plugins and user-defined text clips
Cons
- User interface may appear outdated
- Limited support compared to other popular text editors
- Not available on macOS or Linux platforms
FAQ
What is PSPad?
PSPad is a free text editor for programmers, intended to be an alternative to commercial editors like EditPlus or UltraEdit.
What languages does PSPad support?
PSPad supports syntax highlighting for over 50 programming languages, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, Python, and more.
What platforms does PSPad run on?
PSPad runs on Windows operating systems, from Windows 2000 to Windows 10.
Is PSPad open source?
No, PSPad is not open source software. However, it is freeware and can be used free of charge for both personal and commercial use.
Can I customize the PSPad interface?
Yes, PSPad allows for customization of the interface and toolbars.
Does PSPad have a built-in FTP client?
Yes, PSPad includes a built-in FTP client that allows for easy remote file editing and management.
Can I use plugins with PSPad?
Yes, PSPad has a plugin system that enables users to extend the functionality of the editor.
Is PSPad easy to use?
PSPad has a relatively easy learning curve, and its interface is intuitive for most users.
Does PSPad have a spellchecker?
No, PSPad does not have a built-in spellchecker, but it does offer integration with third-party spellcheckers.
Can I save FTP login information in PSPad?
Yes, PSPad allows for saving of FTP login credentials for quick access to remote files without having to re-enter login information each time.

Boris Weber
I am an editor at UpdateStar. I started as a support engineer, and am now specialized in writing about general software topics from a usability and performance angle among others. I telecommute from UpdateStar’s Berlin office, when I am not working remote as a digital nomad for UpdateStar. When I'm not analyzing the latest software updates, you can find me exploring new cities, immersing myself in local cultures, and discovering innovative tech trends across the globe.
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