UTF8 File Extension
Unicode UTF8-Encoded Text Document
- File Type utf8
- Popularity
- Application Notepad++
- Category Text Files
- Format Text
What is a UTF8 file?
Unicode UTF8-Encoded Text Document, identified by the UTF8 extension, is a Text Files type and includes 315 files.
UTF8 files are supported by Windows. You can open a UTF8 file using one of 3 programs, for example Notepad++, PSPad and Sublime Text.
How to open a UTF8 file?
The most common reason why a UTF8 file cannot be opened is the absence of required software. To fix this, select a compatible program from the list. Then visit the official developer website via the provided link, download the program, and install it on your system.
The most popular programs for working with UTF8 files are Notepad++, PSPad and Sublime Text. To get the latest version of Notepad++, open the Notepad++ Team website where a universal installer for all operating systems is available.
Once setup is done, your operating system should assign Notepad++ as the default app for UTF8 files.
Make Notepad++ the default UTF8 viewer
Changing the default program in Windows
- Start by right-clicking on your UTF8 file and selecting the "Open With" option. From there, click "Choose another app" to continue;
- Inside the popup window, scroll through the list of applications and specifically choose Notepad++ as the application to associate with your UTF8 file;
- Check the "Always use this app" checkbox and click "OK".
Change the default app to open files on Mac
- Right click or use Control + Left Click on the desired UTF8 file to access a dropdown menu of actions;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- Scroll down to the bottom of the window, where you will find the "Enable" menu. Default, "Recommended Programs" will be selected;
- In this menu, choose "All Programs" and navigate to Notepad++. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default program.
How to edit a UTF8 file?
To edit UTF8 files, you need to install specialized software that allows you not only to open but also to modify text files. Online UTF8 editors usually provide fewer features than software created specifically for Unicode UTF8-Encoded Text Document.
List of Top UTF8 editors 2026
Following these criteria, we have put together a list of recommended UTF8 editors.
| UTF8 Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| PSPad | Jan Fiala | Windows | 4.7 out of 5 (41 review) |
| 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) |
Finding answers to UTF8 file problems
If you encounter issues with UTF8 files, don’t worry—most can be fixed with minor software adjustments. Refer to the troubleshooting tips below.
What are the signs that my UTF8 file is damaged?
Corrupted UTF8 text files may have one or more of the following symptoms:
- Poor performance when editing a file in Notepad++;
- Opening or processing the file in Notepad++ or other programs causes instability or crashes in the program;
- The file shows errors when trying to open it or does not open completely;
- Unexpected expansion of the total size of the UTF8 file;
- Working with the file triggers the display of error messages;
Why does Notepad++ quit or crash unexpectedly?
Notepad++ crashes can be attributed to outdated software. Make sure you have installed the latest updates for Notepad++ Team products.
A computer restart is often the key to solving numerous common problems. That’s why, it is recommended to restart the computer before making any changes to the software settings.
What methods can be used to repair a damaged UTF8 file?
Use a recovery program to open the damaged UTF8 file and navigate to the "Repair" menu item. Wait for the recovery process to finish, as it will automatically repair damaged text files.