Micro is a free terminal-based text editor for people who prefer working in a terminal or regularly edit files over SSH. It is distributed as a single static binary with no dependencies and runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, and other systems where Go and its terminal library run. The editor supports syntax highlighting for over 130 languages, plus splits, tabs, a diff gutter, simple autocompletion, persistent undo, linting notifications, macros, soft wrapping, line numbers, and Unicode. It includes multiple cursors, mouse selection, and a real interactive shell. Users can configure options and rebind keys with JSON, then extend the editor using Lua. Its plugin system has a manager for installing, removing, and updating plugins. Micro supports 16-, 256-, and truecolor themes and includes seven default colorschemes. It also supports language servers and remote development. On Linux desktops, external clipboard access requires xclip or xsel for X11, or wl-clipboard for Wayland. Vim emulation and Vi keybindings are not provided.
Who it is for
It suits people who prefer editing in a terminal, including those who regularly work on files over SSH. It is available across Windows, macOS, Linux, and other supported systems.
What is good
- Single static binary has no dependencies.
- Syntax highlighting covers over 130 languages.
- Lua plugin system includes plugin management.
- Supports language servers and remote development.
What to know first
- No Vim emulation or Vi keybindings.
- Linux desktop clipboard access requires an external tool.
- Mingw and Cygwin are not officially supported.
Verdict
Micro offers terminal editing with multiple cursors, plugins, language-server support, and broad configuration options. Its clipboard requirements on Linux and lack of Vi-style keybindings are worth considering.
Micro plans and pricing
All plansCompared on text editors
- Free plan
- Yes
- Supported platforms
- Windows, macOS, Linux
- Extension support
- Yes
- Remote development
- Yes
- Language server support
- Yes
- Editor type
- terminal
