Notepad Windows 11 | Replace Notepad With

As of mid-2026, Microsoft continues to push the modern Store-based Notepad app, but the legacy Notepad remains hidden deep within the operating system. This guide provides step-by-step instructions to uninstall the modern app, restore the classic version, and ensure it remains your default text editor. Why Replace the New Notepad?

Windows 11 actually keeps the classic "win32" version of Notepad hidden. You can force Windows to use it by disabling the "Alias" for the new app: : Open Settings > Apps .

Download the latest installer for your system architecture (usually the version).

has been the gold standard for Windows text editing for over 20 years, and for good reason. Despite offering hundreds of advanced features, it remains remarkably lightweight and responsive. It is free, open-source, and actively maintained. replace notepad with notepad windows 11

: This method makes any call to notepad.exe (like from the command line) open your chosen editor instead.

How to Replace Notepad with Notepad++ in Windows 11: A Complete Guide

This registry entry redirects any process that attempts to launch notepad.exe to your chosen editor instead. It works beautifully for Notepad++ and can be adapted for other editors by changing the path accordingly. As of mid-2026, Microsoft continues to push the

He expected the familiar grey box to spring up, instantly ready, devoid of features, beautiful in its mediocrity.

4. Replacing the Executable (Method 3: Advanced User Approach)

Method 2: Use the Image File Execution Options Registry Trick (Complete Replacement) Windows 11 actually keeps the classic "win32" version

It’s technically paid ($99), but it has an infinite "evaluation" period. You’ll get a pop-up every 20 saves, but it never stops working.

Name the file replace_notepad.reg and save it to your desktop. Double-click the saved .reg file.

notepad.exe

Worse, some users report that replacing the executable causes the new Windows 11 "modern Notepad" (with tabs and dark mode) to conflict with the replacement, leading to error messages.