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SPECIFICTION
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jEdit

jedit.org

Free plan WindowsmacOSLinux
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Spec score 8.4 #19 of 82 in Text Editors

What it is

jEdit is a Java-based text editor for programming, with packages for Linux, macOS, and Windows and supported-platform listings that also name VMS and OS/2. Version 5.7.0 provides syntax highlighting for 233 languages and file types. Editing tools include auto indent, bracket matching, code folding, word wrap, multi-cursor and column editing, and unlimited undo and redo. Search handles literal or regular-expression queries across open files or a directory. Users can adjust keyboard shortcuts, toolbars, and context menus, and automate work with BeanShell macros. Its Plugin Manager installs, updates, and removes extensions; listed options include FTP, SVN, XML, XSLT, and project management tools. Plugins can add compiler, code-completion, debugging, visual-diff, and language-specific capabilities. jEdit is free software with full source code under GPL 2.0. Version 5.6 and later requires Java 11 or later, and the maker notes that installing many plugins can slow startup. Help is available through mailing lists, web message boards, and bug trackers.

Spec sheet

What it does
jEdit is a programmer’s text editor written in Java.Read 7 Oct 2026 · jedit.org
Free plan
YesRead 22 Sep 2026 · jedit.org
Integrations
Listed plugin options include FTP, SVN, XML, XSLT, and project management tools.Read 7 Oct 2026 · jedit.org
Security
The download page says the Debian repository is secured and signed, and describes how to install its signing key to verify packages.Read 7 Oct 2026 · jedit.org
Support
Users can seek help through mailing lists, web-based message boards, and bug trackers.Read 7 Oct 2026 · jedit.org
Column editing
YesRead 22 Sep 2026 · jedit.org
Customization
Users can customize keyboard shortcuts, toolbars, and context menus, and automate editing with BeanShell macros.Read 7 Oct 2026 · jedit.org
Downloads
The download page offers Windows, OS X, Debian, and Slackware packages, as well as a Java-based installer for any operating system.Read 7 Oct 2026 · jedit.org
Editing
Features include auto indent, bracket matching, code folding, word wrap, and unlimited undo and redo.Read 7 Oct 2026 · jedit.org
Extension support
YesRead 22 Sep 2026 · jedit.org
IDE capabilities
The maker says plugins can add compiler, code completion, debugging, visual diff, and language-specific tools.Read 7 Oct 2026 · jedit.org
Languages
Version 5.7.0 supports syntax highlighting for 233 languages and file types.Read 7 Oct 2026 · jedit.org
Limit
The maker notes that installing many plugins slows startup.Read 7 Oct 2026 · jedit.org
Macro recording
YesRead 22 Sep 2026 · jedit.org
Multi-cursor editing
YesRead 22 Sep 2026 · jedit.org
Plugins
The Plugin Manager can download, install, update, and remove plugins from within jEdit.Read 7 Oct 2026 · plugins.jedit.org
Runtime requirement
jEdit 5.6 and later requires Java 11 or later.Read 7 Oct 2026 · jedit.org
Search
Search supports literal and regular expression queries, including searches across open files or a directory.Read 7 Oct 2026 · jedit.org
Supported platforms
Windows,Unix/Linux,Mac OS X,VMS,OS/2Read 22 Sep 2026 · jedit.org

Plans and prices

jEdit Free Free software with full source code · GPL 2.0 Read 7 Oct 2026 · jedit.org

Every jEdit plan and price →

Strong points and limits

Strong points

  • Syntax highlighting for 233 languages and file types
  • Searches open files or a directory
  • Plugin Manager handles installation and updates
  • Free software with full source code
  • Supports multi-cursor and column editing

Limits

  • Version 5.6 and later requires Java 11 or later
  • Many installed plugins can slow startup

Who it suits

jEdit suits programmers who want a free editor with broad language highlighting, configurable controls, and plugin-based additions. It may also fit users on one of its listed platforms who need column editing or macros.

Verdict

jEdit provides a broad set of editing, search, customization, and plugin tools at no cost. Check the Java requirement and plugin startup caveat against your setup.

Where Specifiction places it

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Zed From $10/mo · Free plan 9.1 Visit