Microsoft is discontinuing Wordpad in Windows 11; Explore 5 top alternatives

Microsoft is making changes to its Windows 11 operating system by saying goodbye to certain features, including WordPad. The company has announced that WordPad, the built-in word processor that has been a part of Windows since 1995, will no longer be included in the upcoming Windows 11 24H2 and Windows Server 2025 editions.

This change is part of Microsoft’s broader effort to streamline its offerings and optimize the user experience. While the exact reasons for this decision remain unclear, it marks the end of an era for many users who have come to rely on WordPad for basic word processing tasks.

For those feeling lost, don’t worry! There are many options to fill the gap left by WordPad. Here are some options worth noting:

1. Notepad: A classic choice that has been around for decades, Notepad offers a simple yet reliable text editing experience. Although it lacks advanced features, it is still a tool for quick text tasks.

2. Typora: This writer-friendly software offers a distraction-free environment with live preview features, making it a favorite among creative minds. Its file management features and support for multiple export formats add to its appeal.

3. Editpad: An online editor with several useful features such as grammar checks, plagiarism detection and content summarization. Its easy sharing options make collaboration easy.

4. 1Writer: By combining basic functions with advanced features, 1Writer offers users a peaceful writing space. With support for Markdown files and iCloud Drive integration, it’s a versatile choice for writers on the go.

5. Google Docs: The document editing powerhouse Google Docs has evolved over the years into a huge alternative to traditional word processing programs. With features like PDF editing and real-time collaboration, it replaces WordPad.

As Microsoft says goodbye to WordPad, users can explore these options to find one that suits their word processing needs. Whether it’s simplicity, functionality or collaboration, there’s something for everyone.