Did you know there are more than 17 million Java developers in the world right now? With such a massive number of people invested in a single language, there are plenty of IDEs out there for every developer. But the right IDE can make a world of difference in making your coding process productive and smooth.
Table of Contents
As we stand at the end of 2024, there have been a few notable names of Java IDEs and code editors who have become a favorite among the community. This guide will compare multiple options for the best code editor for Java that are making waves this year to help you pick the right one for your project.
As a developer, you need an environment where you can write code, have all the debugging and testing tools at hand and then compile your application. A Java IDE brings you all of these features into one singular platform. Java IDEs come with some basic features like a code editor, debugger, version control and more.
IDEs also come with auto-complete. This is an intelligent feature that automatically suggests methods, classes and variables you might want to type next based on the context of your code. This feature can help you pick the best code editor for Java because it cuts down your coding time in half and prevents any typos or mistakes.
Here is a detailed comparison of the best Java IDEs for software developers that are becoming popular in 2024:
Eclipse has been recognized as one of the most commonly used IDEs for Java developers since its formation in 2001. The IDE was originally developed by IBM and has grown into an open-source platform that is under continuous improvement and innovation. Eclipse is a combination of powerful features and versatility that supports you throughout the writing process, from writing code to testing it. This Java editor comes with a modular architecture, so you can install different plugins to support another programming language or add a framework.
Pros:
Cons:
Pricing
Free to download and open-source.
According to a recent 2024 Java Developer Productivity Report by JRebel, IntelliJ IDEA has left behind Eclipse to become the most preferred IDE for Java developers(41%). IntelliJ IDEA provides smart code assistance that suggests method calls, variable names, and functions based on the context. The Java IDE comes with refactoring tools that allow you to rename, move or restructure your code while the codebase stays intact.
CodeMix is a Java tools list developed by Genuitec that borrows features from VS Code to provide a seamless Java development experience. If you are familiar with VS Code and prefer its lightweight, modular design, then CodeMix will be the perfect Java editor for you.
CodeMix works on a subscription model, which starts at around $5 per person per month.
DrJava is the best IDEfor Java if you’re looking for a lightweight and easy-to-use option that is perfect for beginners. Developed by Rice University, DrJava prioritizes basic functionalities over advanced features. Using its interactive evaluation window, you can run Java expressions and test code snippets on the fly without compiling an entire project. It also supports unit testing with JUnit and comes with basic project management functions too. DrJava is not meant for a professional-grade application, and you might prefer to use a feature-rich IDE like Eclipse if your application is on a larger scale.
DrJava is completely free and open-source.
NetBeans, developed by Oracle, has a reputation for being both user-friendly and feature-rich. With NetBeans, you can use build automation tools like Maven and Gradle. These will help you manage dependencies and deploy your projects. It also supports all major Java frameworks like Spring and Java EE.
NetBeans is free and open-source if you have the Apache License.
JDeveloper is an Oracle-developed IDE made specifically for Java. You might know JDeveloper because it’s integrated with Oracle’s ADF. The IDE is still a solid choice if you want to do general Java development.
JDeveloper is free download and is licensed under the Oracle Technology Network Developer License Agreement.
Unlike other Java IDEs that are built on heavy frameworks like Swing or SWT, JCreator is a native Windows application. This means that the IDE has a performance edge in terms of speed and resource consumption. If you need a fast, simple and no-nonsense IDE that can handle Java development, JCreator is the way to go.
JCreator comes in two versions:
If you’re working in the software development field, then you would be well aware of VS Code, developed by Microsoft. While it’s not a full-fledged, out-of-the-box Java editor, VSCode can easily be turned into the best IDE for Java through the use of extensions. The editor has plenty of Java extensions like Java Extension Pack and Debugger for Java that provide basic functionalities of code completion, debugging and syntax highlighting.
VSCode is free and open-source.
Sublime Text is a lightweight and super-fast code editor that can be used for Java development using its extensive plugin ecosystem. The IDE focuses more on creating a fluid coding experience with features like Goto Anything and multiple cursors. You can add these using third-party plugins like SublimeJava and JavaScript Enhancements. With its low memory footprint and lightning-fast responsiveness, you can work through large codebases quickly.
You can purchase a personal license for Sublime Text for $99 USD and you get free updates through version 4. This is a one-time payment.
JGRASP is the best IDE for Java for beginners learning the ropes of the language. You can use JGRASP to automatically generate software visualizations like UML diagrams and control structure diagrams, helping you understand code logic and structure.
JGRASP is free and open-source.
With so many great Java IDEs and editors available in 2024, choosing the right one depends on your specific needs as a developer. If you’re working on enterprise-level projects, IDEs like NetBeans or JDeveloper might be ideal. For those who prefer lightweight tools, Sublime Text, JCreator, or even VSCode (with extensions) could be perfect. And if you’re a fan of modularity and flexibility, CodeMix is the best Java tools list.
Create a free profile and find your next great opportunity.
Sign up and find a perfect match for your team.
Xperti vets skilled professionals with its unique talent-matching process.
Connect and engage with technology enthusiasts.
© Xperti.io All Rights Reserved
Privacy
Terms of use