Use a WordPress Syntax Highlighter to Make Code Samples Standout

Last Updated October 30, 2023

A WordPress syntax highlighter plugin is a tool that helps to display code snippets on a website in a more readable and organized format. It does this by highlighting the syntax of the code, making it easier to read and understand. Syntax highlighters are useful for websites that deal with programming, coding, or technical topics.

Syntax highlighters can be customized to match the website’s design and branding, and they support a wide range of programming languages, making them versatile tools. They can also be used to enable copy-and-paste functionality, allowing users to easily copy code snippets from the website.

Overall, a syntax highlighter plugin is a useful tool for websites that deal with programming or technical topics. It helps to display code snippets in a more organized and readable format, making it easier for users to understand and utilize the code.

Let’s take a look at some of the best free WordPress syntax highlighter plugins that the community has developed.

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Popular WordPress Syntax Highlighter Plugins

All of the WordPress syntax highlighter plugins on our list today are available for free from WordPress.org. You can manually download these plugins from the site and upload them to your WordPress installation. For an easier way, they can also be installed and activated directly inside of the WordPress admin via the Plugins screen.

We have summarized each of these plugins to give you a quick overview of their features and capabilities. As mentioned, they are all 100% free. These plugins do not have paid, or premium, upgrades with additional features to worry about.

HTML Editor Syntax Highlighter

Sometimes WordPress plugins have really dry names. The first WordPress syntax highlighter is a prime example of that. HTML Editor Syntax Highlighter allows you to add a syntax highlighting feature to the existing classic post and page HTML text editor that you may already have. This is also conveniently compatible with Gutenberg Code Editor if that is what you use. It also works with any theme or plugin with an editor that uses CodeMirror.js.

In addition to syntax highlighting, you can save your posts and pages easily just by pressing Ctrl+S or Cmd+S. Your cursor is always placed exactly where you left off once reloaded and there is support for a full-screen mode by toggling the F11 and Esc keys. For customization, you may adjust many settings in terms of appearance with built-in themes and individual options. 

Plugin Details

SyntaxHighlighter Evolved

SyntaxHighlighter Evolved is a simple plugin that lets you display any syntax-highlighted code without it being tampered with or changed. This solves the common problem where code samples lose their format or need manual fixes. The plugin easily allows you to post your code exactly as it is or with extra options. These options include letting you change the block type, move it up and down, align it to your liking, and even change the code language used.

In the plugin’s settings, you can choose if you want to show or hide line numbers next to the code. If you want to show them, you can set what number is used at the start. You may also highlight lines, make URLs clickable, and provide an edit mode where your users will be able to edit the code on their side.

Plugin Details

Enlighter

Enlighter is the next WordPress syntax highlighter on our list. This plugin is easy to use. All you need to do to get started is add the source code block via Gutenberg and then insert the code you want to be highlighted.

In terms of settings, Enlighter comes with simple CSS-based themes as well as a customizer so that you can modify styles without needing to know CSS at all. Some other features include integrated CSS file caching if your site has a lot of traffic and inline syntax highlighting. It supports all commonly used languages and code groups, is fully compliant with GDPR, and has integration for the Gutenberg and Classic editor. You can find advanced configurations within the options page as well. Finally, site admins can add their own language and theme engines if needed.

Plugin Details

Urvanov Syntax Highlighter

Urvanov Syntax Highlighter allows you to highlight syntax on your site by starting with its block into your posts and pages. The plugin comes with an integrated theme editor for you to easily customize the look of your code blocks. There is also a tag editor in both Visual and HTML editors.

You may toggle features like plain code, line numbers, and the toolbar, as well as conveniently copy and paste your code or open it in a new window. It supports features like line wrapping, code expanding, line marking, line ranges, and minimizing. Additional options include changing tab sizes, code titles, starting line numbers, and more.

The plugin can detect when a mobile or touchscreen device is being used and detect any file extensions as well. You may also adjust spacing and details like the dimension, margin, alignment, and font sizes. Conveniently, all changes can be seen on a live preview before changes are published to the site.

Plugin Details

APH Prism Syntax Highlighter

APH Prism Syntax Highlighter is the final WordPress syntax highlighter plugin we are featuring. This plugin lets you highlight code easily on your site. One of its standout features is the ability to do custom builds of the highlighter and plugin you prefer to work with. It works on both Classic and Gutenberg block editors. 

Parameters don’t need to be adjusted all that much as it has a full GUI. You may choose your own language, theme, and plugins with ease. Add your own CSS to customize the looks of the code samples if you’d like. Set the max height of your container especially if you have long pieces of code. Writing and editing your code can all be done in one place. You may even override any global options and set individual settings and options per code block.

Plugin Details

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Find the Best WordPress Syntax Highlighter Plugin

We think all of these plugins should meet your needs. When looking for a WordPress syntax highlighter plugin, there are several key features that you should consider:

• Support for multiple programming languages: The plugin should support a wide range of programming languages to cater to different users’ needs.
• Customization options: The syntax highlighter should allow you to customize the color scheme, font, and other styling options to match your website’s design.
• Easy to use: The syntax highlighter should be easy to use, even for those with little to no coding experience. It should have a user-friendly interface and clear instructions.
• Performance: The plugin should not slow down your website’s performance. It should load quickly and not cause any conflicts with other plugins or scripts.

By considering these key features, you can find a WordPress syntax highlighter plugin that meets your needs and helps to enhance your website’s functionality.

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Looking for More Ways to Improve WordPress?

Are you here to find a WordPress syntax highlighter plugin for your company’s site? Maybe you write WordPress tutorials for content marketing to attract clients. If you are in the client game, you might want to learn more about our White Label WordPress plugin before you go.

Our plugin is designed to make WordPress easier for your clients to use. You can remove menus, hide plugins, and change default settings for the world’s most popular content management system. White Label also lets you rebrand WordPress by creating your own login page, dashboard elements, and color schemes.

Check out the complete feature list to see all of the ways White Label can help you turn WordPress into a less confusing piece of software for clients while making it easier for you to support.

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