TEXT File Extension
Plain Text Format
- File Type text
- Popularity
- Application Notepad++
- Category Text Files
- Format Text
What is a TEXT file?
Plain Text Format, identified by the TEXT extension, is a Text Files type and includes 315 files.
TEXT file support extends to various operating systems, including Mac OS, Windows and Linux. If you need to open a TEXT file, you can use one of 9 programs, such as TextEdit, Notepad++ and Gedit.
MIME types
- application/plain
- text/plain
- application/text
Programs that support TEXT files
How to open a TEXT file?
If you’re having difficulty opening a TEXT file, it is often due to not having the correct software. To solve the problem, choose a compatible program from the list. Then follow the link to the official developer site, download the software, and install it on your device.
When it comes to opening and working with TEXT files, TextEdit, Notepad++ and Gedit are the top choices for users. If you want the most recent release of Notepad++, head over to the Notepad++ Team site and download the version designed to run on all platforms.
Once the process is complete, Notepad++ should take over as the default application for TEXT files.
Set Notepad++ as the default TEXT application
Changing Default Programs in Windows
- Right-click your TEXT file, then navigate to the "Open With" option and click "Choose Another Application" to continue;
- From the options listed in the pop-up window, specifically choose Notepad++ as the application to handle your TEXT file;
- Be sure to check the "Always use this app" checkbox and click "OK" to save your preference.
Change the default app that opens a file on Mac
- Right-click or use Control + Left-click on the desired TEXT file to open a menu where you can choose from multiple actions;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- At the bottom of the window, you will find the "Enable" menu. Default, will be set to "Recommended Programs";
- Choose "All Programs" in this menu and search for Notepad++. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default program.
Troubleshooting guide for TEXT file complications
Rest assured, any issues with TEXT files can typically be addressed with simple software adjustments. See the tips below for help.
What Causes Notepad++ to Crash Frequently?
Notepad++ crashes can occur due to outdated software versions. To mitigate this, install the latest updates for Notepad++ Team products.
Restarting your computer is a crucial troubleshooting measure that can alleviate numerous common problems. Therefore, it is advisable to restart your computer before modifying any settings related to the software.
How can I restore a damaged TEXT file?
Open the damaged TEXT file with a recovery program, and then select the "Repair" menu item to start the repair process. Allow the recovery process to complete, which will automatically repair the damaged text files.
What are the telltale signs of a corrupt TEXT file?
Common indications of damaged TEXT text files are:
- Unexpected expansion of the total size of the TEXT file;
- Opening the file in Notepad++ or other programs causes them to hang or crash;
- Opening the file results in an error or a failed attempt;
- While working with the file, error messages appear;
- Editing the archive in Notepad++ results in slow or unresponsive behavior;
How to edit a TEXT file?
To edit TEXT files, it is essential to install software that supports not only viewing but also editing the text files. Online TEXT editors provide limited functionality compared to full-featured software for Plain Text Format.
List of Top TEXT editors 2026
Based on the criteria above, here is a selection of TEXT editors you can use.
| TEXT Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| TextEdit | Apple | Mac OS | 4.8 out of 5 (40 reviews) |
| Windows Notepad | Microsoft | Windows | 4.8 out of 5 (35 reviews) |
| Gedit | GNOME | Linux | 4.6 out of 5 (38 reviews) |
| Notepad++ | Notepad++ Team | Windows | 4.6 out of 5 (37 reviews) |
| Sublime Text | Sublime HQ Pty | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.6 out of 5 (39 reviews) |
| DAMN NFO Viewer | Damn | Windows | 4.2 out of 5 (38 reviews) |
| Atom | - | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.1 out of 5 (36 reviews) |
Convert to and from TEXT
If working with a TEXT file is challenging, one solution is to convert it to formats like JPG, PDF, DOC, ASCII, SO or other supported formats.
Keep in mind that converting a TEXT file may introduce some limitations, but the original format can often be restored.
Offline software, including ABC Amber Text Converter, allows smooth conversion of TEXT files while preserving original quality.