# Nova for Mac

> Panic's beautiful, extensible code editor.

Nova is a native editor with a built-in terminal, Git, task runners and a growing extension library, all designed with Panic's eye for detail.

## Facts

- Price: Subscription
- Developer: Panic
- Category: Developer Tools
- Website: https://nova.app/
- Homebrew cask: nova
- Facts checked: 2026-10-19
- MacWorthy page: https://macworthy.com/apps/nova/

## Install

Homebrew:

```sh
brew install --cask nova
```

## Questions

### Is Nova free?

No. Nova is sold as a subscription.

### Where can I download Nova for Mac?

Download Nova from the developer's website (nova.app). MacWorthy links only to official sources.

### Can I install Nova from the Terminal?

Yes. With Homebrew, run `brew install --cask nova`.

### What are good alternatives to Nova?

Other developer tools apps for Mac worth a look are Zed (open source), CodeEdit (open source), Ghostty (open source) and OrbStack (free + pro).

## Alternatives in Developer Tools

- [Zed](https://macworthy.com/apps/zed/): A code editor that runs at the speed of thought. (Open source)
- [CodeEdit](https://macworthy.com/apps/codeedit/): A native, open-source code editor in Swift. (Open source)
- [Ghostty](https://macworthy.com/apps/ghostty/): A fast, feature-rich, truly native terminal. (Open source)
- [OrbStack](https://macworthy.com/apps/orbstack/): Docker and Linux machines, light as a feather. (Free + Pro)
- [Warp](https://macworthy.com/apps/warp/): The terminal, reimagined around blocks and agents. (Free + Pro)
- [iTerm2](https://macworthy.com/apps/iterm2/): The terminal that taught macOS new tricks. (Open source)
- [Tower](https://macworthy.com/apps/tower/): Git, with an undo button. (Subscription)
- [Fork](https://macworthy.com/apps/fork/): A fast, friendly Git client. (One-time purchase)

Tags: editor