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Microsoft has been making significant changes to its built-in applications, and Notepad is no exception. With the integration of AI-powered features like the ChatGPT-based “Rewrite” tool, the new Notepad offers modern conveniences such as spell check, Bing search, and autosave. However, these enhancements come at a cost—the classic simplicity and lightweight nature of the original Notepad.
Many users still prefer the old Notepad for its minimalist interface, instant responsiveness, and lack of AI features that require Microsoft 365 subscriptions. Fortunately, if you want to restore and set the classic Notepad as your default text editor, there’s a way to do it. This guide walks you through the steps to bring back the legacy Notepad while keeping the option to use the new version.
How to Enable Classic Notepad in Windows 11
Step 1: Check If Classic Notepad is Installed
– Open Settings > System > Optional Features.
– Search for Notepad to check if
- If not installed, click View Features, search for Notepad, and install it.
Step 2: Remove New
- Open Settings > Apps > Advanced app settings > App execution aliases.
- Find Store Notepad and turn off its toggle.
- Now, pressing Win + R and typing
notepad.exewill launch the classic Notepad.
Step 3: Associate .txt Files with Classic Notepad
- Open Run (
Win + R), typeregedit, and press Enter.
– Navigate to: `HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREClassestxtfilelegacy`.
- Create a new Shell key, then add an Open key inside it.
- Inside the Open key, create a Command key.
– Set its default value to: `c:windowssystem32notepad.exe %1`.
- This ensures that .txt files open in the classic Notepad.
Step 4: Set Classic Notepad as Default for .txt Files
– Create a text file and save it.
- Right-click the file, select Open with > Choose another app.
- Select the classic Notepad and click Always use this app.
Step 5: Add Classic Notepad to Start Menu
– Create a shortcut with the path: `C:WindowsSystem32notepad.exe`.
- Move the shortcut to shell:Common Start Menu (accessible via
Win + R). - Now, the classic Notepad appears in the Start Menu.
What Undercode Say:
The AI Push vs. User Preference
Microsoft’s push for AI in its products is a strategic move, aiming to modernize its suite of tools while integrating Copilot across various applications. Notepad, historically a basic text editor, now includes AI-driven features, making it more functional for casual users and professionals alike. However, this shift has not been universally welcomed.
Many long-time Windows users prefer applications that “just work” without requiring an internet connection, a Microsoft account, or a subscription. The new Notepad, while feature-rich, deviates from its original lightweight nature, leading some to seek ways to revert to the simpler, more traditional experience.
The Appeal of Classic Notepad
The classic Notepad has remained largely unchanged for decades, making it a reliable tool for quick note-taking, script editing, and even coding. Unlike the new version, it:
– Opens instantly with no loading delays.
- Consumes minimal system resources, ideal for older PCs.
- Has zero distractions, making it perfect for plain text editing.
For some users, familiarity plays a huge role in preference. Just like people still use VLC Media Player despite Windows’ built-in video player improving over time, classic Notepad users prefer what they know. The muscle memory of opening Notepad for quick edits is hard to replace.
The Benefits of New Notepad
On the other hand, the modern Notepad does have some compelling upgrades:
– Tabs allow users to work on multiple files in the same window.
– Autosave ensures work isn’t lost even if the system crashes.
– Dark mode makes it easier on the eyes.
– AI-powered rewrite and spell-check help users improve text on the fly.
For users who rely on Notepad for writing, journaling, or organizing notes, these features make a strong case for embracing the new version—especially if they already have a Microsoft 365 subscription.
The Future of Notepad
Microsoft is unlikely to roll back AI integration, as it aligns with the broader Windows 11 strategy. Over time, users may adapt to the new Notepad as it becomes more refined and tightly integrated with Windows. However, until then, Microsoft will likely allow users to toggle between the classic and modern versions, recognizing the nostalgia and efficiency the original Notepad provides.
Fact Checker Results
- Classic Notepad is still accessible in Windows 11, but Microsoft doesn’t provide an official way to restore it.
- AI features in Notepad require a Microsoft 365 subscription, making them optional but gated behind a paywall.
- Users can run both Notepad versions side by side, ensuring flexibility for different workflows.
References:
Reported By: https://www.windowslatest.com/2025/03/09/download-enable-old-classic-notepad-in-windows-11-24h2/
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