How to migrate from TextExpander
If you mostly use TextExpander in the browser, a Chrome extension can replace it without a subscription account. Here is how to bring every group across, including fill-ins and date math.
1. Export a group from TextExpander
In the TextExpander app, select a group and use Export Group. Choose CSV (columns: abbreviation, content, label) or the .textexpander file format. Both work. Repeat for each group.
2. Import into PhraseBolt
- Open the PhraseBolt dashboard → Import & export.
- Pick TextExpander and choose the file. The CSV has no header row, PhraseBolt knows that.
- Check the preview and click Import.
What gets converted
| TextExpander | PhraseBolt |
|---|---|
%filltext:name=First name:default=Alex% | {text:First name=Alex} |
%fillpopup:name=Plan:default=Pro:Basic% | {choice:Plan=Pro|Basic} |
%fillarea:name=Notes% | {para:Notes} |
%fillpart:name=PS%…%fillpartend% | {optional:PS}…{/optional} |
%Y-%m-%d, %B %e, %Y | {date:YYYY-MM-DD}, {date:MMMM D, YYYY} |
%@+3D%A | {date:dddd +3d} |
%clipboard, %| | {clipboard}, {cursor} |
%snippet:sig% | {snippet:sig} |
What does not carry over
AppleScript/shell snippets, keyboard macros like %key:tab% and desktop-app-only features (expanding in native Mac/Windows apps) are browser-impossible. PhraseBolt focuses on Chrome, where most email, CRM and help-desk work happens.
Tips after migrating
- Use the search palette (Ctrl+Shift+Space) for long-tail snippets you rarely type.
- Folder names come from labels you set; rename folders to match your old groups.
- Export a JSON backup any time — free, no lock-in.
FAQ
- Does PhraseBolt work outside Chrome?
- No. It is a Chrome extension, so it expands text in web pages (also in Edge and other Chromium browsers that install Chrome Web Store extensions).
- Is there a subscription?
- Pro is $3.99/month or $29/year, or $49 once for a lifetime license. The free plan keeps 25 snippets.
Add PhraseBolt to Chrome — freeNo account · 25 snippets free · 7-day Pro trial, no card