LaTeX has established itself as a leading markup language for academic and professional use, offering unmatched precision in document typesetting. However, crafting documents can be challenging, requiring coding and formatting expertise. Thankfully, LaTeX editors save the day by providing essential tools like auto-completion, compilation, and design configurations, simplifying the writing process and enhancing productivity. This article will explore the best LaTeX editors focusing on Windows as well as macOS devices and cross-platform to cater to users across different operating systems.
26 Best LaTeX Editors for Windows and Mac Devices
LaTeX is a text editing tool that separates word formatting from content entry, similar to HTML. Widely used in academia, it’s the industry standard for dealing with scientific papers and publications containing mathematical equations. It allows users to define formatting through markup-level instructions, making it efficient for creating documents.
These editors excel at handling mathematical equations, which was the primary motivation behind their development. Once content is inserted, the document can be exported as a PDF or other file formats. Now, let’s examine the list of widely used LaTeX editors available in the market.
1. TeXmaker
TeXmaker is a document editing software that provides various features. It offers a structured view for quick and easy navigation within documents. Abundant keyboard shortcuts enhance the overall user experience, making TeXmaker one of the best LaTeX editors for Windows, Mac, and Linux.
- User-friendly and simple to configure
- Code folding option for collapsing sections of code
- Unicode support
- Automatic code completion
- Offers the convenience of easily folding and unfolding different parts or sections of your documents
- Excels at creating a well-organized Bibliography section
- Smooth and effortless code compilation
- Integrated PDF viewer
- Extensive library of over 370 mathematical symbols for easy insertion
- Quick document generation through a helpful wizard
- Automatic identification of warnings and errors in the LaTeX document
- Convenient text search functionality across folders and subfolders
2. Dreamweaver
Dreamweaver is a well-known website creation and management tool that facilitates the creation, publishing, and maintenance of websites. With Dreamweaver, you can design your website and easily upload it to any web server for it to be accessible online.
- Rapid development of dynamic websites is possible with Dreamweaver
- The workspace can be customized according to personal preferences
- Built-in HTML validator to ensure code accuracy
- Real-time collaboration, Live Preview, Drag-and-drop Editor, Multilingual support, Syntax Highlighting, and Dual View features to enhance user experience
- Complies with GDPR and other relevant standards
- Extensive collection of plugins, including Code View
- Seamless integration with Fireworks and Flash for enhanced functionality
- Ready-made templates are available for blogs, e-commerce, newsletters, and portfolios
- Supports programming languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
- Offers flexible coding, Multi-monitor support, and Redesigned interface
- Customer support is available via Phone and Chat
- Compatible with Windows, Android, and iOS platforms
Also Read: Download Texmaker for Windows 10: Free LaTeX Editor
3. Overleaf
Overleaf is a user-friendly, cloud-based collaborative LaTeX editor known for its excellence and as one of the best LaTeX editors for Windows. It stands out as one of the top LaTeX editors, offering the capability to track document history and allowing users to seamlessly insert images, equations, bibliographies, and other elements.
- Abundance of templates available in Overleaf for diverse document styles
- Streamlined writing, editing, and publishing process for increased efficiency
- Real-time preview of code aids in visualizing the document as it is being written
- Easy sharing with others for collaborative work
- Ability to switch between LaTeX and Rich Text mode for flexible editing
- Swift identification of LaTeX errors for quick troubleshooting
- Real-time tracking of changes and comments for seamless collaboration
4. TeXStudio
TeXStudio is an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) designed for composing LaTeX documents. This software enables users to simultaneously edit multiple positions within the document.
- Provides an automatic code completion feature while typing
- Boasts an extensive library of over 1,000 mathematical symbols
- Bookmark feature to easily reference important sections in your text
- Convenient conversion of references and filenames into clickable links with a simple control and mouse click
- Effortless manipulation of tables, including copying, pasting, and inserting table columns with just one mouse click
- Simplified image insertion through drag-and-drop functionality directly into the editor
5. LaTeX Base
LaTeX Base is an online LaTeX editor that automatically compiles the code in real-time as you write. With a single click, you can publish and share your documents using this tool.
- Syntax highlighting for enhanced code readability
- Familiar keyboard shortcuts are available for efficient usage
- Capability to work offline without an internet connection
- Seamless integration with popular file storage services, such as Dropbox and Google Drive
- Easy insertion of images into the document
Also Read: How to Download Visual Studio for Windows 10
6. Spacemacs
Spacemacs stands out as a premier LaTeX editor, boasting a vast library of templates and an open-source nature with both command line and graphical user interfaces.
- Uses the X Window system for seamless execution on Unix shell terminals
- Easy setup with countless layers of configuration options
- Four core pillars: mnemonic key binding prefixes, discoverable key bindings, consistent key finders arrangement, and community-driven configuration packages
- Simple search system to locate layers, packages, and more efficiently
- Abundance of templates crafted by leading template creators worldwide
- Offers both command line and graphical user interfaces for versatile usage
7. Authorea
Authorea is a web-based LaTeX editor that simplifies the process of writing and publishing data. With real-time commenting support, users can discuss and collaborate on changes effortlessly.
- Web-based platform for accessibility and convenience
- Effortless document version management
- Easy document development through readily available templates
- 24×7 support for user assistance
- Seamless conversion of documents from PDF and Word formats
- Integration of rich media elements into documents
- Real-time collaboration for smooth teamwork
8. GNU Emacs
GNU Emacs is a text editor primarily designed for Unix-based systems and widely adopted by programmers, engineers, students, and system administrators and a people’s favorite as one of the best LaTeX editors for Windows. It is regarded as one of the top LaTeX editors for Mac, providing a wide range of text manipulation capabilities, such as adding, modifying, deleting, inserting, and navigating words, letters, lines, and other text units.
- Comprehensive built-in documentation is available within Emacs
- Extensive support for Unicode, enabling usage with various human scripts
- A high level of customization is possible through Emacs Lisp programming
- Inclusion of a packaging system for effortless installation and download of extensions
- Compatibility with multiple platforms, including Mac, Windows, and Linux
9. LyX
LyX is one of the best cross-platform LaTeX editors that work seamlessly across different platforms. It enables direct editing of LaTeX documents, eliminating the need to learn complex LaTeX code to begin creating documents. With its user-friendly graphical interface, this application simplifies the editing of mathematical formulas for a hassle-free experience.
- Strong support for tables and floating numbers in the editor
- Ability to export documents as PDF files
- Comprehensive table and caption support in this LaTeX editor for Windows
- Capability to create multilingual documents
- Automatic text completion feature for improved efficiency
- Version comparison to compare different document versions
- Change tracking functionality for easy revision management
- Consistent user experience across Windows, Mac, and Linux platforms
Also Read: 25 Best eBook Writing Software to Download Free
10. LaTeX Workshop
LaTeX Workshop is an extension designed for Visual Studio Code. This extension provides the convenience of automatically building a PDF version of your LaTeX document upon saving.
- Allows for quick and effortless switching between the .tex source file and the generated PDF
- PDF files can be viewed directly in the browser
- Abundance of shortcuts available in this LaTeX text editor software
- Convenient shortcut (Alt+Enter) for starting a new line while writing
- Preview on hover for math tags to view content instantly
- Commands can be entered using the symbol \
- Supported platform functions as an extension for seamless integration
11. WinShell
WinShell is a free, multilingual IDE (Integrated Development Environment) designed for LaTeX document editing.
- Integration of multiple documents within the development environment
- Includes a built-in spelling-checking feature and offers support for Unicode
- Capability to add various elements like table of contents, tables, figures, and more
- Inclusion of user-defined macros and tools for customization
- Multi-language support, including English, Dutch, French, Italian, and others
- Availability on Windows, Linux, and macOS platforms
12. TeXworks
TeXworks is a straightforward LaTeX tool known for its user-friendly interface, making it one of the best LaTeX editors for Windows.
- Built-in viewer for easy position synchronization
- Provides syntax highlighting to enhance code readability
- Includes various open-source libraries
- Convenient shortcuts for quick access to functions
- Generating PDF documents is a seamless and straightforward process
- Instant result viewing with a single mouse click
- Compatibility with Windows, Linux, and macOS platforms
13. Gummi
Gummi is a LaTeX editor that provides a unique feature of displaying the PDF output without requiring manual code compilation.
- Convenient management of bibliography
- Offers the capability to easily insert tables and images into the document
- Easy project management capabilities
- Seamless addition of mathematical symbols to the document
- Access to a summary of the document’s structure
- Compatible with both Windows and Linux platforms
Also Read: How to Get Dark Theme on Spyder IDE
14. TeXnicCenter
TeXnicCenter is a comprehensive integrated LaTeX environment that offers unlimited undo and redo functionalities, allowing for easy revision of changes.
- Free and open-source, allowing for community contributions
- Provides a convenient and fast setup wizard
- The interface is user-friendly, with accessible toolbars and menus
- Customization of tools is available to suit individual preferences
- Syntax highlighting enhances code readability
- Includes support for auto code completion, enhancing the writing experience for LaTeX documents
- Full support for UTF-8 (Unicode Transformation Format)
- Automatic parenthesis matching for error-free coding
- Compatible with Windows, Linux, and macOS platforms
15. TeXpen
For users who value real-time preview features in their LaTeX editor, TeXpen is ideal. It’s a great option for individuals who desire a simple editing process with immediate feedback thanks to its clear design and key functionality.
- Create an article outline for easy and quick navigation within your document
- Convenient one-key build PDF feature with a built-in preview option
- Offers dark themes and background colors to protect your eyes during long editing sessions
- Auto-completion is available to reduce the need for manual typing
- Built-in spell-check to help you maintain accurate spelling throughout your document
- Includes English grammar and expression improvement tools to enhance your writing
16. Papeeria
Papeeria is a LaTeX environment that facilitates real-time collaboration with others, allowing users to work together on documents simultaneously.
- User-friendly editor for seamless usage
- Accessibility from both desktop and mobile devices
- Web-based platform for flexibility and convenience
- Facilitates writing scientific papers
- Provides the convenience of creating new documents from templates
17. Kile
Kile is an excellent LaTeX IDE that prioritizes efficiency in editing LaTeX documents through its single-panel design.
- Provides a hierarchical browser for easy navigation through the document’s structure
- File browser for seamless jumping between TeX files in a directory, ideal for multi-file documents like books
- Customization tools for complete control over LaTeX build processes, enabling output in both PDF and HTML formats
- Single-panel editor focused on providing a streamlined LaTeX editing experience
- A powerful IDE catering to the needs of LaTeX users with a variety of useful features
Still, it lacks some familiar features like an interactive PDF viewer and direct document editing.
Also Read: 30 Best Code Editor for Windows
18. VerbTeX
VerbTeX is a highly rated LaTeX editor for Windows, providing essential features like syntax highlighting, code completion, and support for local and cloud modes.
- Syntax highlighting for improved code readability
- Code completion to expedite writing and reduce errors
- Seamless support for both local and online modes for document accessibility
- Custom template files for quick project kickstart
- The Pro version is available with additional features for a reasonable price of $4.99
19. MiKTeX
MiKTeX is a free and open-source LaTeX editor that provides a user-friendly installation wizard and includes an integrated package management system earning it the reputation of one of the best Cross-Platform LaTeX Editors.
- A comprehensive collection of styles, programs, and fonts for diverse document formatting
- Regular software updates to ensure the Windows LaTeX editor remains current
- Compatibility with multiple platforms, including Windows, Mac, and Linux
20. Texifier
For those using macOS and looking for a native LaTeX editor with a cutting-edge user interface and robust capabilities, Texifier is a good pick.
- For producing high-quality papers on macOS, its live typesetting and sophisticated mistake management make it an invaluable tool
- As you alter your LaTeX code, Texifier’s live typesetting feature immediately changes the PDF display of your document
- Includes an outline view for document organization and can efficiently handle complex multiple files
- Boasts advanced error handling, making it an invaluable tool for producing high-quality papers on macOS
Also Read: How to Add Notepad++ Plugin on Windows 10
21. TeXlipse
The well-known Eclipse integrated development environment (IDE) has a LaTeX plugin called TeXlipse. For those who like to work with LaTeX inside the Eclipse IDE, it provides an extensive set of functions which makes it a great option.
- Seamlessly integrates LaTeX functionality within Eclipse
- Provides code prediction for LaTeX commands as you type
- Identifies LaTeX code errors automatically
- Enhances code readability with syntax highlighting for LaTeX code
22. Vim-LaTeX
For Vim users searching for a robust and incredibly customized LaTeX editing experience, Vim-LaTeX is a fantastic option. A LaTeX plugin installed on the Vim text editor, Vim-LaTeX gives users an accurate and incredibly customizable editing workflow.
- For effective LaTeX editing, it offers sophisticated syntax highlighting,
- Use autocompletion and customized key mappings with macros
- Utilizes the keyboard-driven editing features of Vim to make it possible to write and edit LaTeX code rapidly and effectively without the use of a mouse
23. Emacs AUCTeX
The robust Emacs text editor, which offers many customization options, is extended by Emacs AUCTeX. Users can customize the editor to meet their own requirements and choices, which improves the effectiveness and enjoyment of their LaTeX editing experience. For Emacs users looking for a durable and packed with features LaTeX editing experience, Emacs AUCTeX is a top pick. Thanks to its comprehensive capabilities and smooth connection with Emacs, it is a useful tool for writing expert documents.
- Efficient error identification
- Seamlessly integrates with Emacs
- Highly customizable to fit user preferences
- Advanced syntax highlighting for better code readability
24. TeXShop
TeXShop is an inherent macOS LaTeX editor that puts a strong emphasis on usability and simplicity.
- Boasts a user-friendly interface, making it an excellent choice for macOS users seeking straightforward LaTeX editing
- Provides an inbuilt PDF viewer that updates in real-time as you edit your LaTeX code, enabling convenient result preview without manual compilation
- Seamlessly integrates with TeX distributions, enhancing LaTeX editing efficiency
- Offers customizable templates to further streamline document creation and formatting
Also Read: How to Open EMZ Files on Windows 10
25. GNOME LaTeX (LaTeXila)
GNOME LaTeX (previously LaTeXila), which offers a feature-rich and highly customized LaTeX editing experience, is a preferred pick for GNOME users. It is an effective tool for writing professional papers due to its smooth interaction with the GNOME desktop experience and built-in PDF viewer.
- Provides LaTeX command auto-completion for efficient document creation
- Includes a built-in spell checker to ensure error-free documents
- Integrates with file browsers for easy file management
- Offers global accessibility and usability for LaTeX users worldwide
26. WinEdt
With its fully customizable interface, WinEdt enables you to personalize the editor’s look and feel to suit your tastes, making it one of the best LaTeX editors. This includes changing the editor’s themes, toolbar setups, and key shortcuts. LaTeX is a favorite because of its sophisticated capabilities and easy connection with MiKTeX and TeX Live.
- Highly customizable interface
- Supports code folding for better document organization
- Helps identify and correct errors with visual cues
- Seamlessly connects with LaTeX distributions like MiKTeX and TeX Live
In this article, we have listed the best LaTeX editors for efficiently organizing and digitizing your data into a single document. With the choice of suitable editors mentioned above, you can easily input your information into separate fragments and compile them into user-friendly formats. For any queries or further assistance, feel free to connect with us through the comment box below. Also, keep visiting our website for regular guides and tips!