How to Install Neovim on Windows 10 & 11 Using Winget

If you're a Windows user and a bit of a code ninja—or just dabbling in text editing—you might have stumbled upon Neovim. This modern take on the classic Vim editor is designed to enhance the capabilities of its predecessor while addressing some of the gripes users had. Enter Winget, the handy package manager for Windows that makes installing software a breeze! In this guide, I'll walk you through the process of installing Neovim on both Windows 11 and 10 using Winget, with a sprinkle of humor and insight along the way!

What is Neovim?​

Neovim is not just a fancy rebranding of Vim; it’s a complete modernization of the beloved text editor. Built with extensibility in mind, Neovim aims to eliminate the frustrations often faced by developers using traditional Vim.

Key Features:​

• API for Custom Plugins: Create your extensions and plugins easily.
• Asynchronous Task Execution: Run tasks in the background without freezing the interface.
• Decoupled UI: This allows for more visually appealing front-ends and a smoother experience.
• Active Community Support: Neovim enjoys a vibrant community, ensuring that it continuously evolves and improves.

Winget: Your New Best Friend​

Before diving into the installation process, let’s quickly note that Winget is a command-line tool used to install apps neatly and swiftly. Note: It’s like having a butler for your software installations—just without the bow tie.

Open Your Windows Terminal​

1. Press Windows + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin) from the menu.
2. This gives you the command line access you need to work your magic.

How to Install Neovim Steps​

Step 1: Search for Neovim in Winget​

Now that you have the terminal open, you can check if Neovim is available in the Winget repository by typing:

 winget search neovim

This command looks for all packages that contain the word "neovim." You might want to grab a snack while you wait; it’s not exactly a fast-food service.

Step 2: Installing Neovim​

If the search returns results, you’re in luck! Install Neovim using one of the following commands:

 winget install Neovim.Neovim

or

 winget install "Neovim"

Let Winget do its thing as it fetches and installs Neovim. You’ll see download progress displayed in your terminal, and once finished, it’ll offer you a polite affirmation of success.

Step 3: Verify the Installation​

To ensure all went well, simply close the terminal and re-open it. Then, check if you can access Neovim:

 nvim

Alternatively, you can browse the Start menu for NeoVim and launch it from there—because sometimes, the easy route is the best!

Step 4: (Optional) Add Neovim to System Path​

In most cases, Winget will automatically add Neovim to your system’s PATH. However, if you encounter any hiccups:

1. Right-click the Start button and select System.
2. Click on Advanced System Settings and then Environment Variables.
3. Locate the Path variable under System variables and click Edit.
4. Add the file path where Neovim was installed (typically C:\Program Files\Neovim\bin).
5. Restart your terminal or PC to finalize the changes.

Step 5: Customize Neovim​

Now that you have Neovim up and running, it’s time to tailor it to your preferences:

• The configuration file is usually found at:

 C:\Users\\AppData\Local\nvim\init.vim

Here, you can customize plugins, themes, and keybindings until it reflects your unique style.

Step 6: Keeping Neovim Updated​

Just like your favorite software, Neovim needs updates, too! Use the command:

 winget upgrade Neovim.Neovim

Step 7: Uninstalling Neovim (If Needed)​

If Neovim doesn’t suit your fancy after all that customization, don’t fret! Uninstall it easily with:

 winget uninstall Neovim.Neovim

And just like that, it’ll vanish from your system like your last New Year’s resolution.

Conclusion​

Installing Neovim on Windows via Winget is a straightforward process if you follow these steps. Not only can you enjoy a powerful text editor, but you also get to impress your coder friends with your newfound skills!
And if you run into issues or have questions, remember that the tech community is always there to help you out—so don’t be a stranger! Happy coding!
For further reading:

• Check out how to install Minikube or other applications using Winget on Windows 11 and 10.

Armed with this guide, you're ready to dive deeper into the world of Neovim and perhaps even become the wizard you were always meant to be!
Feel free to leave comments or questions below; let's keep the conversation going!
Source: How2shout How to Install Neovim using Winget on Windows 11 or 10