Yes, you can permanently change Notepad’s default font and font size by editing the Windows Registry. 1. Locate the registry key HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Notepad. 2. Modify lfFaceName to set the desired font (e.g., Consolas). 3. Adjust iPointSize by entering the font size multiplied by 10 (e.g., 160 for size 16). 4. Restart Notepad to apply changes. Proceed with caution and back up the registry before editing, as incorrect changes may affect system stability. Monospaced fonts like Consolas, Courier New, or Lucida Console are recommended for optimal formatting. This method works on Windows 10, 11, and earlier versions, though future Notepad updates may alter compatibility.

Yes, you can change the default font and font size in Notepad permanently by editing the Windows Registry. Notepad doesn't offer this option directly in its settings, so modifying the registry is the most effective way to make lasting changes.

Where Notepad Stores Font Settings

Notepad stores its font settings in the Windows Registry under a specific key. The values that control the font face and size are located at:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Notepad

Inside that key, look for these two entries:

• lfFaceName – controls the font name (like "Lucida Console" or "Consolas")
• iPointSize – controls the font size (in tenths of a point)

Changing these values will affect how text appears every time you open Notepad.

How to Edit the Registry to Change Notepad’s Font

Before making any changes, it's a good idea to back up your registry or create a system restore point. That way, if something goes wrong, you can roll back easily.

Here’s what to do:

1. Press Win R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
2. Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Notepad.
3. Double-click on lfFaceName and enter the name of the font you want to use (e.g., Consolas, Courier New).
4. Double-click on iPointSize and set the desired size multiplied by 10. For example, typing 160 sets the font size to 16.
5. Close Registry Editor and restart Notepad.

You should now see your new font and size applied by default.

?? Be careful when editing the registry — changing the wrong values can cause issues with your system.

What Fonts Work Best in Notepad?

Since Notepad is a basic text editor, it works best with monospaced fonts. These fonts ensure each character takes up the same amount of horizontal space, which is ideal for code or log files.

Some popular choices include:

• Consolas
• Courier New
• Lucida Console
• Fira Code (if installed on your system)
• DejaVu Sans Mono

If you pick a font that isn’t monospaced, formatting may look off, especially when aligning text manually.

Also, keep in mind that some fonts (like Fira Code) require additional setup or font linking to work properly in older apps like Notepad.

Does This Work on All Versions of Windows?

This method works on most modern versions of Windows, including Windows 10 and Windows 11. Earlier versions like Windows 7 and Vista also support it, though the layout of the registry might differ slightly.

However, Microsoft has started rolling out a redesigned version of Notepad with more features in newer Windows updates. If you're using one of those updated versions, check if the settings still apply — they usually do, but future changes could affect compatibility.

So yes, you can change Notepad’s default font and size permanently through the registry. It just takes a few edits and a restart of the app. Not complicated, but definitely not obvious either.

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