Reviewed by the Softwares.com Editorial Team · Last updated June 2026 · How we rate
Key facts
- Vendor
- GNU
- Pricing
- Open source — Free
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Windows, Mac, Linux
- Best for
- Power Users
- Editor rating
- 4.5 / 5
- Founded
- 1985
- Headquarters
- Open source
What is GNU Emacs?
GNU Emacs is a code editors tool from GNU. Emacs is a free, endlessly extensible text editor and computing environment.
GNU Emacs uses open source pricing and offers a free tier you can start on without a credit card. Free.
It's best suited to power-users and runs on Windows, Mac, Linux.
Standout strengths include infinitely customizable, free, lisp-powered. Worth weighing: steep learning curve.
GNU Emacs pricing
Pros
- Infinitely customizable
- Free
- Lisp-powered
Cons
- Steep learning curve
GNU Emacs vs alternatives
Ready to try GNU Emacs?
Start free and see if it fits your workflow.
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Frequently asked questions
What is GNU Emacs?
Emacs is a free, endlessly extensible text editor and computing environment.
How much does GNU Emacs cost?
GNU Emacs is open-source-priced. It has a free tier.
Does GNU Emacs have a free trial?
GNU Emacs offers a free tier rather than a time-limited trial.
What platforms does GNU Emacs support?
GNU Emacs is available on Windows, Mac, Linux.