Choosing the right code editor can make all the difference in a developer’s workflow. Between Notepad++ and UltraEdit, the decision isn’t always straightforward. Each editor brings its own strengths and weaknesses to the table.
Notepad++ vs UltraEdit is a comparison that touches on a wide range of features critical to coding, from file handling capabilities to customization options.
Notepad++ is a free, open-source tool known for its speed and community-driven updates. On the other hand, UltraEdit offers advanced functionalities and extensive customization but comes with a price tag.
In this article, you’ll learn about their core features, performance, advanced functionalities, pricing models, and user experience. By the end, you’ll have a well-rounded understanding of which editor suits your coding needs better, be it small projects or extensive, professional-grade development work.
Let’s dive into the specifics and see how these two editors stack up.
Notepad++ and UltraEdit
| Feature | Notepad++ | UltraEdit |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | Windows | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| License | Free (GPL) | Commercial (Paid) |
| User Interface | Tabbed Interface, customizable | Highly customizable, Modern UI |
| Language Support | Multiple languages (syntax highlighting) | Multiple languages (syntax highlighting and handling) |
| File Handling | Basic file management, multiple tabbed files | Advanced file handling, large file support, FTP/SFTP setup |
| Searching and Replacing | Regular expressions, basic search capabilities | Perl regex, advanced find and replace, filtering by file types |
| Code Folding/Structure View | Yes | Yes |
| Macro Support | Yes | Yes |
| Plugin Support | Extensive plugin support | Built-in and external plugins available |
| Column Mode Editing | Yes | Yes |
| Hex Editing | No | Yes |
| Customization | Limited customization, themes | Extensive customization, multiple themes, workspace settings |
| Integrated Development | Basic IDE features | Extensive IDE features, including built-in FTP, SSH integration, Git integration |
| Performance with Large Files | Performs well with small to medium files, may struggle with huge files | Optimized for handling very large files efficiently |
| Trial Version | N/A | Yes, fully functional trial version available |
| Community Support | Large open-source community, frequent updates | Paid support with regular updates, active user forums |
| Documentation | Community-contributed, extensive | Professional documentation, extensive tutorials and guides |
Notepad++ Overview
Notepad++ stands out for being free and open-source, a significant advantage for many developers. It’s available to everyone without any hidden costs.
Available under GPL license
Licensed under the GNU General Public License (GPL), Notepad++ offers the freedom to modify and distribute the software.
This ensures that any improvements made by the community can be shared openly.
Lightweight and fast editor for developers
Notepad++ is known for its speed and efficiency.
Unlike other editors that may bog down systems, it remains lightweight and quick, making it ideal for developers who need a fast, responsive tool.
The focus here is on a streamlined, no-frills coding experience.
UltraEdit Overview
UltraEdit, in contrast, operates on a paid model but offers a free trial. This allows users to experience the full range of features before making a purchase decision.
Known for editing large files and extensive customization options
Where UltraEdit really shines is in its capability to handle large files, some size constraints notwithstanding.
It’s robust, offering extensive customization options, which adds to its appeal for those needing detailed and specific settings.
Cross-platform compatibility (Windows, Linux, macOS)
Additionally, UltraEdit is cross-platform, functioning smoothly across Windows, Linux, and macOS.
This compatibility is a significant plus for developers working in diverse environments.
The ability to switch between operating systems without changing the core toolset is invaluable, ensuring seamless workflow transitions.
Core Features Comparison
File and Code Management
Notepad++
Multi-document interface with tab management
Notepad++ features a multi-document interface, allowing you to work with several files simultaneously.
The tab management system is intuitive, letting you switch between different documents with ease.
Syntax highlighting for multiple languages
Supporting syntax highlighting for a wide array of programming languages, Notepad++ simplifies code reading.
This feature helps in distinguishing between different code elements, making development more efficient.
Basic autocomplete functionality
Autocompletion in Notepad++ is basic but functional.
It offers simple suggestions and completes commonly used code snippets, streamlining the coding process without overwhelming you with options.
UltraEdit
Advanced syntax highlighting with customizable color coding
UltraEdit takes syntax highlighting to the next level.
You can customize the color coding to suit your preferences, making it easier to spot errors and understand complex code structures.
Auto-expanding code templates
With auto-expanding code templates, UltraEdit helps speed up your coding.
Templates can be set to auto-expand pre-defined snippets, increasing productivity significantly.
Multiline editing and column mode support
UltraEdit’s support for multiline editing and column mode means you can edit multiple lines of code at once.
This feature is particularly useful for making bulk changes across large sections of text.
Customization and Usability
Notepad++
Limited UI customization
Notepad++ offers limited UI customization options.
While it allows for some personalization through themes and font changes, it doesn’t provide extensive customization capabilities.
Plugin support to enhance features
One of the strong suits of Notepad++ is its plugin support.
With a vast library of plugins, you can extend its functionality to better meet your needs, from FTP integration to syntax checking.
Available in over 80 languages
Notepad++ supports more than 80 languages, making it a versatile choice for developers worldwide.
This multilingual support ensures that you can use the editor in your preferred language.
UltraEdit
Comprehensive UI customization with themes
UltraEdit offers comprehensive UI customization.
You can change nearly every aspect of the interface, from themes to layouts, allowing you to tailor the editor exactly how you like it.
Integrated live preview for HTML coding
For web developers, the integrated live preview in UltraEdit is invaluable.
You can see your HTML code render in real-time, aiding in faster, more accurate web development.
Drag-and-drop functionality for images and files
UltraEdit includes drag-and-drop functionality, simplifying the process of adding images and files.
This feature enhances usability, allowing for a more fluid workflow when managing different types of content.
Performance and Efficiency
Working with Large Files
Notepad++
Struggles with very large files
Notepad++ isn’t built for massive file manipulation. Once file sizes start ballooning, it begins to strain. Performance dips, and latency creeps in, especially when handling files over a certain threshold.
Performance issues when handling files over a certain size
When the file size crosses a particular limit, the responsiveness takes a hit.
Editing large datasets or logs in Notepad++ can become impractically slow, hindering workflows significantly.
UltraEdit
Capable of handling large files (up to 4GB or more)
UltraEdit shines when it comes to dealing with hefty files. Whether you’re processing large text files, log files, or codebases, it manages them with relative ease.
Up to 4GB? No problem.
Reliable performance in large file editing and data processing
You get steady performance when editing or processing large data sets.
UltraEdit doesn’t balk at size, maintaining reliability and speed, ensuring that your work continues without annoying interruptions.
Speed and Responsiveness
Notepad++
Lightweight and quick to load
One of the perks of Notepad++ is its speed. It’s feather-light, loading almost instantaneously.
For developers working on small to medium-sized projects, this quick-launch capability is a real-time saver.
Ideal for small to medium-sized projects
If your work revolves around moderately sized projects, Notepad++ is efficient.
It’s optimized for such scenarios, bringing a brisk coding experience without the overhead.
UltraEdit
Slower to load compared to Notepad++ but powerful for complex tasks
UltraEdit might take a little longer to get going. This loading time is a trade-off for its extensive feature set and robust capabilities.
The initial wait typically pays off in performance during more demanding tasks.
Suitable for extensive projects and large datasets
When your work involves handling large datasets or extensive projects, UltraEdit stands out.
Its powerful toolkit is designed for complex tasks, making it a go-to solution for professional developers requiring heavyweight features and reliable performance.
Advanced Functionalities
Autocomplete and Code Generation
Notepad++
Limited autocomplete capabilities
Notepad++ keeps it simple with autocomplete. It’s basic, giving you straightforward suggestions that cover the essentials.
This focus on minimalism works for those who don’t need a lot of bells and whistles.
Primarily focuses on basic coding assistance
The core here is basic coding assistance. Need quick help with common code snippets?
Notepad++ offers just enough to get the job done without overwhelming you with too many options.
UltraEdit
Fully customizable autocomplete (tags, CSS class names, regular expressions)
UltraEdit offers a deep dive into autocomplete. Customize it as you like—tags, CSS class names, regular expressions—whatever you need.
This flexibility can really make your coding more efficient.
Extensive template and snippet support for faster coding
Templates and snippets? UltraEdit has you covered.
Extensive support means you can set up your environment to quickly churn out code, accelerating your workflow in a big way.
Integrated Tools and Support
Notepad++
Extensive community plugin library
One of the best aspects of Notepad++ is its community.
The extensive plugin library is driven by user contributions, offering a variety of tools to enhance your setup.
External integrations available through plugins
Need specific features? External integrations via plugins let you tailor Notepad++ to your needs, from syntax checking to project management.
UltraEdit
Built-in FTP/SFTP client and SSH support
UltraEdit makes file transfer a breeze with built-in FTP/SFTP client and SSH support.
You can manage and edit files on remote servers directly within the editor.
Code preview and debugging tools integrated into the editor
With integrated code preview and debugging tools, UltraEdit provides an all-in-one environment.
You get to see your changes in real time and debug issues without leaving the editor. This streamlines the entire coding process, making it more efficient and less error-prone.
Pricing and Licensing Models
Notepad++
Completely free and open source
Notepad++ is a dream for budget-conscious developers. Being completely free and open-source, it’s accessible to everyone. There are no hidden costs, no surprise fees.
Community-driven development and updates
This editor thrives on its community. Developers worldwide contribute to its continuous improvement. Updates roll out based on real user feedback, making it a tool shaped by its users.
UltraEdit
Paid software with subscription-based licensing
UltraEdit operates differently. It’s a paid software with a subscription-based licensing model. You pay to play, essentially, but you get what you pay for.
Offers a 30-day free trial before purchase
Not sure if it’s worth the investment? UltraEdit offers a 30-day free trial.
Dive in, test all the features, and then decide. It’s a practical way to make an informed decision.
More costly, but provides enterprise-grade features and support
Yes, it’s more expensive. But with UltraEdit, you’re investing in enterprise-grade features and robust support.
Think of it as paying a premium for sophisticated functionalities and reliable assistance whenever you need it.
User Experience and Usability
Learning Curve and Ease of Use
Notepad++
Simple interface with a low learning curve
Notepad++ boasts a straightforward interface. No frills, no complexities. It’s easy to get started, making it perfect for developers who just want to code without fuss.
Ideal for beginners and casual coders
Its simplicity works wonders for beginners. Casual coders and hobbyists find it accessible—you don’t need to spend hours learning the tool. Jump in and start coding.
UltraEdit
More complex interface with a steeper learning curve
UltraEdit, on the other hand, brings in more complexity. Its rich feature set means there’s more to learn, which can be intimidating for newcomers.
Best suited for experienced developers requiring advanced tools
For those who need advanced functionalities—think data scientists or enterprise-level developers—this complexity pays off.
UltraEdit is designed with power users in mind, requiring a bit more investment in learning the ropes.
User Feedback and Reviews
Notepad++
Highly rated for ease of use, lightweight performance, and community-driven support
Users frequently praise Notepad++ for its ease of use. It’s lightweight, fast, and the community-driven support system is invaluable.
Commonly praised for being free and versatile
The fact that it’s free and versatile doesn’t go unnoticed. Users love the flexibility without the cost, making it a staple for many coders out there.
UltraEdit
Favorably reviewed for handling large files, extensive customization, and robust feature set
UltraEdit receives high marks for its capacity to handle large files. The extensive customization options and robust feature sets also get a thumbs-up.
Criticism for its cost and potential over-complexity for simpler tasks
The flipside? Its cost. Users often mention the high price point and note that it might be overkill for simpler tasks.
It’s a tool that shines in complexity but can be seen as too much for basic needs.
Pros and Cons Summary
Notepad++ Pros and Cons
Pros
Lightweight and free
Notepad++ is a breeze to run. It’s not going to bog down your system, and being completely free is a huge plus—no need to budget for this one.
Community-driven with robust plugin support
The community backing is strong. With a plethora of plugins available, you can tailor Notepad++ to fit your needs, integrating everything from syntax checking to FTP.
Multilingual support
More than 80 languages are supported. If you’re working on international projects, this makes it incredibly versatile.
Cons
Limited capabilities for handling large files
Where it falls short? Massive files. Notepad++ starts to struggle and isn’t the best choice if you’re dealing with gigabytes of data.
Basic feature set compared to UltraEdit
When you stack it against UltraEdit, its feature set feels basic. It’s great for simple tasks but lacks the advanced tools some developers might need.
Only available for Windows
This one’s a dealbreaker for some. Only available on Windows, which limits its cross-platform utility.
UltraEdit Pros and Cons
Pros
Handles large files with ease
UltraEdit excels with large datasets. Whether you’re editing extensive log files or robust codebases, it’s built for the task.
Highly customizable interface and advanced toolset
Customization is the name of the game here. From the UI to the feature set, you can tweak UltraEdit to fit meticulous requirements. The advanced tools make it suitable for complex projects.
Cross-platform compatibility
Unlike Notepad++, UltraEdit runs on Windows, Linux, and macOS. This cross-platform compatibility gives it a clear edge for developers who switch between operating systems.
Cons
Paid software with high cost
It’s pricey. You need to shell out some cash to get onboard, which can be a turn-off for those who prefer free tools.
Overkill for simpler projects or casual use
For simple tasks? It’s overkill. The extensive feature set might be more than you need if you’re working on casual or smaller projects.
Slower to load and more resource-intensive
It’s not the fastest to load. All those features come at a cost, and UltraEdit can be a bit of a resource hog.
FAQ On Notepad++ vs UltraEdit
What are the main differences between Notepad++ and UltraEdit?
Notepad++ is free and open-source, while UltraEdit is a paid tool with a free trial. UltraEdit excels in handling large files and offers extensive customization. Notepad++ is lightweight and ideal for simpler tasks. Each has unique strengths tailored to different developer needs.
Which editor handles large files better?
UltraEdit handles large files (up to 4GB or more) effectively. It’s optimized for performance under heavy load, making it ideal for editing extensive datasets or log files. Notepad++ struggles with very large files, and performance drops significantly as file size increases.
How customizable are each of these editors?
UltraEdit offers comprehensive UI customization, from themes to layouts, allowing extensive personalization. Notepad++ has more limited customization options but supports a variety of plugins to enhance its functionality. UltraEdit’s detailed customization is better suited for advanced users.
Is Notepad++ really free?
Yes, Notepad++ is completely free and open-source. Licensed under the GPL, it can be modified and distributed freely. This makes it accessible to developers who are looking for a cost-effective solution without compromising on essential features.
Can I use plugins in Notepad++?
Absolutely. Notepad++ boasts an extensive community plugin library. These plugins extend Notepad++’s functionality, offering solutions like FTP integration, syntax checking, and more. This flexibility boosts its versatility and allows users to customize their development environment.
Does UltraEdit support multiple operating systems?
Yes, UltraEdit operates on Windows, Linux, and macOS. This cross-platform compatibility is a key advantage, enabling developers to maintain a consistent development environment across different operating systems without switching tools.
How do the autocomplete features compare?
UltraEdit provides a fully customizable autocomplete feature supporting tags, CSS class names, and regular expressions. Notepad++’s autocomplete is basic, covering essential coding snippets. For advanced autocomplete capabilities, UltraEdit stands out.
Which editor is better for web development?
UltraEdit is geared toward professional developers, offering advanced tools like an integrated live preview for HTML coding. Notepad++ is highly functional for standard web development tasks but lacks some of UltraEdit’s specialized features like code preview.
What kind of support and updates can I expect from each?
Notepad++ offers community-driven support and updates, reflecting real user needs and contributions. UltraEdit, being a paid tool, provides professional support and regular updates, ensuring continuous improvement and advanced features tailored to enterprise needs.
Why choose UltraEdit despite its cost?
UltraEdit provides enterprise-grade features, robust performance, and extensive customization. For developers handling large projects or needing specific advanced tools, the investment in UltraEdit pays off by enhancing productivity and providing a powerful, reliable coding environment.
Conclusion
Notepad++ vs UltraEdit summarizes the core differences and advantages of each code editor, considering various factors such as file handling, customization, and platform availability. Notepad++ offers a free, open-source solution that’s lightweight and suitable for simple tasks. Ideal for beginners, it benefits from a community-driven plugin library and multilingual support.
UltraEdit stands out with its capacity to handle large files, provide extensive customization, and offer advanced tools for complex projects. As paid software with a subscription model, it comes with enterprise-grade features and dedicated support, making it a choice for professional developers working on extensive projects across multiple operating systems including Windows, Linux, and macOS.
Ultimately, the decision between Notepad++ and UltraEdit boils down to your specific needs. Notepad++ is great for those who need simplicity and speed. UltraEdit is for those requiring a robust, customizable tool with cross-platform compatibility. Choose the editor that aligns with your workflow and project requirements.
With over a decade in the tech field, Bogdan blends technical expertise with insights on business innovation in technology.
A regular contributor to TMS Outsource's blog, where you'll find sharp analyses on software development, tech business strategies, and global tech dynamics.
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