Pure Text Editors (not IDEs)
CotEditor
Main driver until Feb '26.
Pros
- Native macOS app with minimal footprint
- Simple and clean interface
- Great for quick edits and plain text
- Open source and free
Cons
- Limited advanced features (no rich plugin ecosystem)
- Not suited for heavy coding workflows
Sublime Text
Pros
- Extremely fast, lightweight, and responsive
- Powerful multi-selection and navigation
- Rich package ecosystem (via Package Control)
- Excellent performance with large files
Cons
- License required for extended use
- Not as actively developed as some newer editors
- Lacks built-in IDE-level features without plugins
BBEdit
22 Feb 2026 downloaded from Mac App Store. Trying now, but no "save on change" possible.
Pros
- Long-time macOS staple — very stable
- Great for coding, HTML, text processing
- Powerful search/replace and automation tools
- Free mode with solid feature set
Cons
- Full feature set requires paid license
- UI feels dated to some users
Zed
Pros
- Modern editor designed for speed and collaboration
- Built-in team features (live editing)
- Fast startup and low latency
- Good for both coding and writing
Cons
- Still maturing compared to older editors
- Some advanced features behind subscription
TextMate
Pros
- macOS native feel
- Good bundle system for languages
- Simple yet powerful for code and prose
Cons
- Development pace has slowed
- Lacks some modern editor conveniences
Nova
Pros
- Modern native macOS editor from Panic
- Built-in project and git tools
- Sleek UI and performance
Cons
- Paid license
- Smaller extension ecosystem than VS Code
Atom
Was my main driver until project was sunset.
Pros
- Hackable and customizable
- Built-in git integration
- Friendly UI
Cons
- Electron-based — performance lag vs native apps
- Project sunset by GitHub (no longer developed)
Terminal-based
Never really tried, steep learning curve.
Neovim / Vim (Terminal)
Pros
- Extremely powerful once mastered
- Lightweight and scriptable
- Perfect for keyboard-centric workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve
- Requires config to unlock full power
Emacs
Pros
- Ultra-extensible and programmable
- Great ecosystem for text, code, org-mode
Cons
- Complexity and learning curve
- Not native UI expectations for many users
Conclusion
Choose Sublime Text if you want pure speed with coding power.
Use BBEdit or Nova for native, professional macOS workflows.
Pick VS Code for the largest ecosystem and language support.
Go with CotEditor for quick edits and simple text tasks.
Terminal users may prefer Vim/Neovim or Emacs for ultimate control.