Classic Editor vs Markdown Editor (Formerly Dark Mode) (2026)
Detailed side-by-side comparison of two WordPress plugins, based on real-time data from WordPress.org.
Markdown Editor (Formerly Dark Mode)
1.0K+ active installs
Free
Quick Verdict
As of April 2026, Classic Editor has a higher user rating (4.9/5 from 1,225 reviews) and leads in active installations (9.0M+ vs 1.0K+). Both are free WordPress plugins. Classic Editor has accumulated 85M+ total downloads while Markdown Editor (Formerly Dark Mode) has 116K+.
Detailed Comparison
| Metric | Classic Editor | Markdown Editor (Formerly Dark Mode) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.9/5 | ◄ | 3.3/5 |
| Total Reviews | 1,225 | ◄ | 84 |
| Active Installs | 9.0M+ | ◄ | 1.0K+ |
| Total Downloads | 85M+ | ◄ | 116K+ |
| Support Resolution | 0% | N/A | |
| Last Updated | 3 months ago | ► | 3 months ago |
| First Released | 2017 | 2017 | |
| Age | 9 years | 9 years | |
| WP Requires | 4.9+ | 6.2+ | |
| PHP Requires | 5.2.4+ | 7.4+ | |
| Business Model | Free | Free | |
| Latest Version | 1.6.7 | 4.2.1 |
Rating Breakdown
Classic Editor
Markdown Editor (Formerly Dark Mode)
Download Trends
Over the past 30 days, Classic Editor averaged approximately 12,737 daily downloads while Markdown Editor (Formerly Dark Mode) averaged 11.
Recent Reviews
Classic Editor Reviews
Back to Simple
Really helpful if u don’t like the block editor. Feels familiar n easy to work with. Not fancy, but it makes editing way more comfortable for me.
perfect for users who prefer the old WordPress
The Classic Editor plugin is perfect for users who prefer the old WordPress editing experience. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and works flawlessly without any setup. Highly recommended for a simple a
Keeps It Simple
Installed this cz I prefer the old editor. Works exactly as expected, no issues so far. Makes writing posts much easier for me. Would be nicer if it had few more options, but still solid. tnkz devs.
Markdown Editor (Formerly Dark Mode) Reviews
No markdown
I would have to agree with the other reviews/comments. No markdown.
can’t use markdown editor!!
can’t use markdown editor!!
Plugin doesn’t deliver markdown
I believe this plugin is in violation of the WordPress terms. You can’t access its main feature “markdown editor” without paying. The free version only has a dark mode/light mode toggle.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Classic Editor or Markdown Editor (Formerly Dark Mode) more popular?
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Are Classic Editor and Markdown Editor (Formerly Dark Mode) free?
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Plugin data sourced from WordPress.org. Comparison and analysis by PluginSift.