GridinSoft Notepad 3.3.2.8

There are a lot of applications available on the web which try to replace your Windows Notepad. Some of them, like GrindinSoft Notepad Home, do a pretty good job. This application comes with an improved user interface. Each file you open appears in a new tab, allowing you to easily select the file you want to edit. On the left side, you can configure the program to display a special toolbar which allows you to disable or enable certain features like the code folding, the stay on top feature, or the word wrapping.

You have access to statistical information about your text file. This data includes the file size, the number of lines, words, and letters. Even the time it would take to upload the file at a certain connection speed is displayed. The application supports creating, opening, and editing text files. You can save the text using the RTF, LaTeX, or HTML format. The character set and the line break style is also customizable. GrindinSoft Notepad Home chooses a certain color scheme, depending on the extension of the file you open.

The Regular Expression search is a useful advanced feature, which probably won't be used by beginners. Several other advanced features are available, including code completion, auto correction, and spell checking. The program can display a special console window, which you can use to issue commands and view their output.

Pluses: The application supports a simple programming language which you can use to create your own simple scripts. There are several such scripts available for adding C++ comments, compiling C++ code (provided that you have a compiler in your PATH), escaping special chars, and so on. You can even use a script to search Google for the text you select. Each script can be associated to a shortcut key.

Drawbacks / flaws:

In conclusion: There are freeware alternatives to this application. I recommend you take a look at Notepad++ before deciding to buy this one.

version reviewed: 3.3.2.7