You may prefer Typora for writing and VS Code for project documentation. macOS can store a default for a file type, while Open With lets you choose another app for a particular opening. Install the editor you want to use before changing the association.
Method 1: Use Finder
- In Finder, select a sample file such as README.md.
- Press Command–I, or choose File → Get Info.
- Expand Open with and choose Typora. If it is missing, choose Other and locate the installed app.
- Click Change All and confirm the macOS prompt.
- Double-click another file of the same type to check the new default.
Method 2: Manage associations with Pahkui
Pahkui lets you browse by app or by format. When setting up an editor for several file types, you can inspect the current defaults and review pending changes in one window. Requires macOS 14 or later.
- Open Pahkui, switch to Format, and search for the extension you need from .md, .markdown.
- Select Typora. Use Choose another app if it is not listed.
- Review the pending association, click Apply changes, and confirm the new app in the macOS dialog.
The formats in this guide require Pahkui Pro, a one-time purchase for lifetime use. The manual Finder method does not require a purchase. See pricing
If the default app does not change
- If Typora does not appear, choose Other and locate Typora.app in Applications. Pahkui does not install or license Typora for you.
- Check .markdown separately if your notes use that extension as well as .md.
- To return to VS Code, repeat the same steps and select Visual Studio Code. Your Markdown text does not need conversion.
Common questions
Can I make VS Code the default Markdown editor instead?
Yes. Select Visual Studio Code instead of Typora in the same Finder or Pahkui workflow.
Is Markdown included in Pahkui Free?
Markdown requires Pahkui Pro. You can still change its default app manually using Finder without buying Pahkui.