Classic Widgets 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 Widgets has a higher user rating (4.9/5 from 263 reviews) and leads in active installations (2.0M+ vs 1.0K+). Both are free WordPress plugins. Classic Widgets has accumulated 7.3M+ total downloads while Markdown Editor (Formerly Dark Mode) has 116K+.
Detailed Comparison
| Metric | Classic Widgets | Markdown Editor (Formerly Dark Mode) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.9/5 | ◄ | 3.3/5 |
| Total Reviews | 263 | ◄ | 84 |
| Active Installs | 2.0M+ | ◄ | 1.0K+ |
| Total Downloads | 7.3M+ | ◄ | 116K+ |
| Support Resolution | 25% | N/A | |
| Last Updated | 3 months ago | ► | 3 months ago |
| First Released | 2021 | 2017 | |
| Age | 5 years | 9 years | |
| WP Requires | 4.9+ | 6.2+ | |
| PHP Requires | 5.6+ | 7.4+ | |
| Business Model | Free | Free | |
| Latest Version | 0.3 | 4.2.1 |
Rating Breakdown
Classic Widgets
Markdown Editor (Formerly Dark Mode)
Download Trends
Over the past 30 days, Classic Widgets averaged approximately 2,179 daily downloads while Markdown Editor (Formerly Dark Mode) averaged 11.
Recent Reviews
Classic Widgets Reviews
Works Like Before
Does exactly what I needed. Brought back the old widget system without any issues. Super easy to use, no extra setup needed. tnx to devs, saved my time 👍
Old Widgets Back
Installed Classic Widgets cz I prefer the old widget screen. Works exactly like before and keeps things simple. No confusion with block widgets anymore. Really glad this exists. Tnkz devs!
Great and very helpful plugin
Great widget plugin. The widgets are flexible, easy to style, and they do not slow down the site.
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
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Plugin data sourced from WordPress.org. Comparison and analysis by PluginSift.