Side by side
Kakoune vs Poe
Both stand on text editors. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxMac
Kakoune offers extensive selection-based editing and customization at no listed cost. Its steep learning curve is an important consideration for new users.
Visit Kakoune Free plan LinuxMacWindows
Poe centers on private, individual writing with offline access and focused editing tools. Choose Poe Pro when project management, narration, calendar, comments, reference tools, or ambient audio are needed.
Visit PoeThe facts
| Kakoune | Poe | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac | Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Poe Pro: $6.99 a year |
| Plans published | 1 | 2 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | kakoune.org | getpoe.com |
| On text editors | #42 of 82 | #46 of 82 |
Kakoune: what it does well
- Multiple selections are central to editing.
- Includes contextual help and as-you-type completion.
- Macros and hooks support customization.
- Works with external shell tools.
What to know first
- The learning curve remains steep.
- Listed platforms are Linux and macOS.
Poe: what it does well
- Works offline without an account or cloud service
- Includes focus mode, timers, goals, and writing stats
- Project mode combines word counts across files
- Narrator offers selectable voices and adjustable speed
- No AI tools or user-data training
What to know first
- No mobile apps
- No publishing tools or real-time collaboration
- Saves content as Markdown
- Some features and searches require internet access