Side by side
PanWriter vs StackEdit
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.
Free plan Open source LinuxMacWindows
PanWriter brings Markdown editing, page review, and multiple publishing formats into a free, open-source desktop editor. Check the Pandoc requirement if you need to export beyond formats that do not require it.
Visit PanWriter Free plan Open source Web
StackEdit combines browser-based Markdown editing with offline access, collaboration, sync, and publishing workflows. It is listed as free and open source, with support for several Markdown variants and export formats.
Visit StackEditThe facts
| PanWriter | StackEdit | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | Yes |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | panwriter.com | stackedit.io |
| On markdown editors | #2 of 31 | #1 of 31 |
PanWriter: what it does well
- Free and open-source.
- Runs on Linux, macOS, and Windows.
- Live preview includes a paginated view.
- Imports DOCX into Markdown and exports edited text.
- Supports HTML, EPUB, PDF, and other Pandoc formats.
What to know first
- Pandoc is required for most exports.
- Questions and feedback go through GitHub issues.
StackEdit: what it does well
- Works offline and supports local files.
- Merges simultaneous edits by collaborators.
- Syncs with Google Drive, Dropbox, and GitHub.
- Exports Markdown, HTML, and PDF.
What to know first
- The product is described as an in-browser editor.
- Copyright information displayed covers 2013–2019.
- Its Markdown flavor is listed as custom.
Alternatives to PanWriter Alternatives to StackEdit The whole list

