Side by side
MacDown vs MultiMarkdown Composer
Both stand on markdown editors. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Choose MacDown if you use macOS and want a free editor with a configurable preview and local Markdown files. Its rendering options and HTML or PDF export cover common writing needs. Look elsewhere if you need cloud sync, VIM edit mode, or an editor for another platform.
Visit MacDownChoose MultiMarkdown Composer if you use macOS and want local Markdown editing with a live preview and file comparison at no cost. Consider an upgrade if you need multiple documents, export or advanced customization tools; it does not provide cloud sync or real-time collaboration.
Visit MultiMarkdown ComposerThe facts
| MacDown | MultiMarkdown Composer | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Mac | Mac |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 3 |
| Maker | MacDown | Not published |
| Website | macdown.uranusjr.com | multimarkdown.com |
| On markdown editors | #23 of 31 | #19 of 31 |
MacDown: what it does well
- Free and open source under the MIT License.
- Configurable live preview renders Markdown into HTML.
- Supports TeX-like math, GFM task lists, and Jekyll front matter.
- Prism highlights fenced code blocks with language identifiers.
- Exports to HTML and PDF and supports local files.
What to know first
- Available only for macOS; the maker says other-platform ports are not in progress.
- Does not support cloud sync.
- VIM edit mode is unsupported.
- macOS may show an unidentified developer warning.
MultiMarkdown Composer: what it does well
- Free plan supports reading and writing files.
- Includes a live HTML preview.
- Supports MultiMarkdown v6 and CriticMarkup.
- The free plan includes file comparison.
- Upgrade export formats include EPUB 3, OpenDocument, LaTeX and TextPack.
What to know first
- Available for macOS only.
- Cloud sync is unavailable.
- Real-time collaboration is unavailable.
- Publishing workflow is listed as none.
Alternatives to MacDown Alternatives to MultiMarkdown Composer The whole list