Run Swift, Python, JS, and Go
Try scripts, snippets, CLIs, and UI experiments from one Mac editor without project setup.
Swift, Python, JavaScript, Go
Run code. Skip setup.
A lightweight Mac code editor for Swift, Python, JavaScript, and Go, with instant runs and room to grow.
Free version, macOS 15+, Universal binary
4
Languages, one editor
Run
Swift, Python, JavaScript, Go
Grow
Simulator, packages, app export
Small ideas should run before they become projects.
Open a file, hit Run, and see your code move before your coffee gets ideas.
Prototype iOS screens fast
Run SwiftUI and UIKit ideas in Simulator before they deserve an Xcode project.
Test code on Mac and Linux
Run local macOS experiments or target Linux when the snippet becomes portable work.
Export small Mac apps
Turn useful SwiftUI work into a runnable app when a note becomes a tool.
Run code without setup.
Open a file, write code, and run it right away. Swift, Python, JavaScript, and Go are ready without a full IDE parade.
- Run Sensible defaults for quick experiments
- Tune Custom interpreters, build flags, and targets
- Ship Export a runnable Mac app when it earns one
Use AI on your Mac.
Get completions, explanations, and refactors from the built-in assistant. Your code stays on your machine, exactly where it should.
Prototype iOS apps without project ceremony.
Run SwiftUI and UIKit experiments in the iOS Simulator. Test an API, a screen, or a tiny app idea without opening Xcode first.
Work with packages when the scratch gets serious.
Use Swift Package Manager, Python requirements, Bun-powered JavaScript, and Go package workflows from the editor.
The pieces you reach for all day.
A fast editor is the start. Notepad.exe also keeps packages, snippets, floating notes, and export paths close.
Export Mac apps
Turn SwiftUI work into a runnable Mac app when a quick experiment becomes useful.
Python requirements
Keep script dependencies with the note and run them through the interpreter you choose.
Bun-powered JavaScript
Run JavaScript snippets, automation, and package experiments from the same editor.
Go workflows
Build quick CLIs, server experiments, and package tests without switching tools.
Organize and share snippets
Search the Notes Library, pin scratch windows above other apps, and export polished code images.
Developers use it when Xcode is too much.
Short notes from people using Notepad.exe for Swift ideas, snippets, and small tools.
Cot does too little for me, Xcode is overkill for small things, so I really love this.
An excellent small code editor to explore Swift ideas without launching a heavy IDE like Xcode.
I was really impressed with the performance, only to learn Notepad.exe is a native app.
Fast, lightweight and refreshingly low-friction. Exactly the Swift playground we have been wanting.
Try free. Upgrade when it sticks.
All paid plans work on up to 3 devices. Students and educators can apply for free academic access.
Perpetual License
$79/ one-time
Pay once, own forever
- All features unlocked
- Free updates for v1.x
- Works on 3 devices
- Money-back guarantee
Most popular
Annual Subscription
$19.99/ year
Just $1.67 / month
- All features unlocked
- Continuous updates
- Works on 3 devices
- Cancel anytime
- Priority support
Free Version
$0/ try before you buy
Core features included
- Core functionality
- Limited features
- Occasional reminders
- Upgrade anytime
Students and educators get free academic access through an annual subscription at 100% off. Apply
Questions before download.
The short version: it is a Mac code editor for fast experiments, not another heavy workspace.
What is Notepad.exe?
Notepad.exe is a lightweight code editor for Mac. It lets you write and run Swift, Python, JavaScript, and Go without creating a project first.
Is it an IDE or a text editor?
It sits in the useful middle: fast like a text editor, with code completion, diagnostics, execution, package workflows, Simulator support, and app export when you need them.
Do I need Xcode installed?
You can use the Swift toolchain for many Swift runs. Xcode and Apple SDKs are useful when you want to run apps, use Simulator, or work with platform APIs.
Can I prototype iOS apps?
Yes. You can run SwiftUI and UIKit experiments in the iOS Simulator without creating an Xcode project first.
Does the AI send code to a server?
The built-in AI assistant runs on your Mac, so completions, explanations, and refactors can happen on device.
What languages are supported?
Swift, Python, JavaScript, and Go are supported for syntax highlighting, completion, diagnostics, and instant execution.
Can it run code on Linux?
Yes. Notepad.exe can run supported workflows on macOS and Linux, which helps when a quick test needs to match a server target.
Why name a Mac app Notepad.exe?
Because the name is memorable, and the app is serious about staying small, fast, and direct.
Download Notepad.exe and run something small today.
Also available with brew install notepadexe