Is There a MacDown for Windows?
The short answer
No. MacDown is a macOS-only open-source editor and there is no Windows build. Markd.ly is a maintained, signed markdown editor that runs on Windows as well as Mac, Linux, iPhone and Android, with the same plain-files-on-disk approach.
What Markd.ly gives you on Windows
- +A native Windows app, which MacDown has never had.
- +Actively maintained, signed and notarized, with automatic in-app updates.
- +Plain .md files in your own folders, the same as MacDown, so nothing is locked in.
- +Tools MacDown does not have: vim mode, Pandoc export, AES-256-GCM document encryption, and a snippet library.
What MacDown genuinely does well
- ·MacDown is free and open source, with no account and no purchase.
- ·It is a well-liked, simple, split-pane markdown editor that does its job without ceremony.
- ·For a Mac user who wants free and simple, it remains a reasonable choice.
| On Windows | Markd.ly | MacDown |
|---|---|---|
| Runs on Windows | Yes, native | No, macOS only |
| Price | Buy once | Free, open source |
| Maintenance | Actively maintained, auto-updates | Community project, sporadic releases |
| Vim mode and Pandoc export | Yes | No |
When you should stay put
MacDown is free and fine. If you are on a Mac and it works for you, keep using it. Markd.ly matters when you need the same editor on Windows, or you want something that is still actively shipped.
Common questions
Is MacDown available on Windows?
No. MacDown is a macOS application. There is no Windows port.
What is the closest free MacDown alternative on Windows?
MarkText and Typora are the usual answers, and MarkText is free. Markd.ly is the paid option if you want it maintained, signed, and running on your phone too.
Is Markd.ly worth paying for when MacDown is free?
If you are Mac-only and MacDown does what you need, probably not. The case for Markd.ly is Windows and mobile support, active maintenance, and the extra tooling.
MacDown platform support verified 2026-08-17 on the MacDown site. Subject to change. Full Markd.ly vs MacDown comparison.