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Is Microsoft Edit the Ultimate Lightweight Terminal Editor for Windows and Linux?
Microsoft Edit is a newly released, minimalistic terminal-based text editor designed for both Windows and Linux environments. Inspired by the classic MS-DOS Editor, Edit streamlines file editing directly within the terminal, eliminating the need to switch to a graphical interface. This tool is especially valuable for developers, DevOps professionals, and system administrators seeking a fast, efficient alternative to editors like nano on Linux.
Key Features of Microsoft Edit
Cross-Platform Compatibility
Runs natively on Windows and Linux, supporting consistent workflows across environments.
Terminal-Based User Interface
Operates entirely within the terminal, featuring a text user interface (TUI) with a navigable menu bar.
Tab Management
Edit multiple files in a single session with tab support. Easily switch between open files using the mouse or keyboard shortcuts (CTRL + P).
Full mouse support for menu navigation, file switching, and editing. Keyboard shortcuts are prominently displayed for all menu options, including CTRL + S to save and CTRL + Q to exit.
Modern Editing Tools
- Line numbering for code readability.
- Advanced find and replace with regex and case sensitivity.
- Word wrap toggle for improved text handling.
- Multi-file editing and tabbed interface.
- Customizable file naming and creation.
Easy Installation
Windows:
- Available via the Windows Insider channel or immediate download from GitHub.
- Install using Windows Package Manager (winget):
winget install Microsoft.Edit
- Restart the terminal to activate Edit.
Linux:
Download the executable from GitHub or use package managers as available.
Simple File Operations
Launch with a filename to create or open a file:
edit <filename>
Omit the filename to start a new untitled document, which can be renamed upon saving.
Efficient Workflow
Save files with CTRL + S or via the File > Save menu.
Close files with CTRL + W (closes current tab) or exit the editor entirely with CTRL + Q or File > Exit.
Benefits
- Streamlines file editing for terminal users.
- Reduces context switching by keeping all editing within the terminal.
- Offers a modern, user-friendly alternative to legacy editors.