0xED is a native OS X hex editor based on the Cocoa framework. Fast editing of large files. Unlimited file size (limited by what the actual file system supports). Small memory footprint. Instant opening of files of any size. Supports all normal text editor keyboard shortcuts. HFS+ compatible. Full hex/text search/replace. Binary/text Cut/copy/paste support.
This review was originally posted on VersionTracker.com.<br />Quick comparison of three hex editors:
HexEdit v2.0
- Most powerful, but betrays pre-Mac OS X roots.
- Features file compare, resource fork editing, PPC code disassembly.
- Interface: needs upgrading; does not have value display or recent files; but options are easily accessible from menu or shortcuts.
- Major con: Truncates long file names.
- No online help.
- Compare function is AppleScript-able.
HexEditor v1.4
- Best display, well organised, easy to read.
- Shortcomings: Arrow keys don't work properly; "open" doesn't go into app bundles, no decimal addresses, no case-insensitive ASCII search, no "go to address", no offset display.
- "Open special" works for paths, but not for special files (contrary to its description).
- Has synch display for multiple files (but no real file compare).
- Basic online help.
0xED v1.0.2
- Interface clearly Cocoa, but needs more work. The only one with a fully resizable window. Everything listed under "shortcomings" for HexEditor works properly here.
- Flaws: No shift-click selection; switch to decimal address through preferences; "go to" under "find".
- No online help.
- Conclusion: Useful, but not as powerful as HexEdit. Interface needs some polish.
Best OS X hex editor
billy.python
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Cons
Summary
This review was originally posted on VersionTracker.com.<br />The best OS X hex editor so far. Fast stable and professional.
Works OK, but needs work
Catservant
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Summary
This review was originally posted on VersionTracker.com.<br />This editor works nominally for viewing and editing, but there is one place where it definitely needs work: it doesn't support shift-click selection of a region of data, i.e. setting your cursor at one end of the region and then shift-clicking at the other end to select the region. You have to drag-select, which is a pain if you're selecting a large region in the middle of a file.
Best Hexeditor
TripleF3000
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This review was originally posted on VersionTracker.com.<br />For me this is the best Mac OS X hex editor. Really clean and space-saving interface and the value converter is perfect. Thanks!