Web development isn’t as easy as pie. Developers need to put a lot of effort into creating a successful website or application. Every Webmaster needs the right tools to do their job well. For many, free IDEs and code editors are essential options to consider. To create a well-crafted design, you really need to be inspired to put your hard work in the right direction. Fortunately, there are tools such as IDEs (integrated development environments) and code editors available to help you complete the task as quickly as possible.
Below, I have outlined a list of truly resourceful code editors and IDEs that can save you a lot of time when developing a specific program. They have all the supported tools and a robust feature set that help you stay agile, efficient, and productive.
1. Codelite
Codelight is an open-source, free, cross-platform IDE for C/C++ programming languages. It’s a very convincing tool for any novice programmer and is highly recommended for lightweight projects. This feature-rich IDE has a very intuitive interface and some dynamic tools that make your life easier. It is also compatible with a range of modern browsers (such as Windows, Linux, and OSX).
2. Bluefish
Bluefish is an open-source editor that is highly customizable and flexible. It comes packed with some nifty features that make editing easier and faster. It’s simple to use and offers many options for writing and editing your own source code to create flawless web projects. Bluefish can also be extended by including some additional programs and snippets. As an open-source project, there are better chances of adding new features to the extension.
3. Java Inventor
Java Inventor is a high-performance Java IDE that simplifies the development and deployment of Java applications. It is developed with the motive of reducing the development time for Java programmers. It’s a RAD tool that lets you create tables, manage data, build forms, generate reports, and more. The IDE part is great to revamp the overall look and feel of your app.
4. JS Bin
There are times when you test the reliability of your JavaScript code and see it actually works. JS Bin is an interactive IDE that lets developers create and share their work, enabling the detection and resolution of deviations. It serves as a bin that gives you a preview of your work in the output, which can be further used for editing and sharing purposes. It’s free and has all the features that streamline your development work.
5. Komodo IDE
Komodo IDE is a cross-platform IDE that supports all major languages, helping you get your development work done quickly. It features an intelligent code editor that lets you write impeccable set of code. It also includes a multi-threaded auto debugger that supports Python 2.4-3.3 and Django templates.
6. jEdit
jEdit is a highly advanced and excellent text editor written in Java and compatible with all leading browsers. It features a built-in macro language and an easy-to-extend plugin design, which can be downloaded and installed directly from jEdit’s plugin manager. It is also easy to customize and is suitable for both novice and seasoned developers.
7. Aptana
Aptana is a professional, open-source tool for developing web applications. Based on Eclipse, Aptana primarily aims at JavaScript development. It also supports a wide range of programming languages and includes full support for CSS, HTML, and JavaScript. Those who develop in PHP or Ruby can also consider Aptana for development.
8. Code: Blocks
Code::Blocks is a free, open-source IDE for C/C++ programming. It can run seamlessly on all the major platforms and is highly customizable and configurable. It is built using the plugin framework and can be extended by installing some functional plugins. It also comes with a plugin wizard to help you create your own plugins. Code::Blocks is absolutely versatile and great for building your dream project.
9. DrJava
DrJava is a simple and yet surprisingly versatile IDE for beginners. It is a free, open-source IDE primarily aimed at those new to development. It includes some truly powerful and fantastic features that also make this IDE a foremost choice of advanced developers. DrJava also supports multiple platforms and features an intuitive interface that makes the development process fast and simple.
10. Coda
Coda is a rich text editor that lets you produce clean, fast, and reliable code for web projects. Using Coda, you can also preview your work and make changes if required. In addition, Coda also gives you a perfect way to manage both your local and remote files.
To Sum Up
And that’s the round-up of the 10 best free IDEs and code editors available for programmers. Be sure to bookmark this article so that you can use them for your advantage.
About the Author:
Employed as a professional PHP developer with Xicom Technologies Ltd, Amanda Cline has written multiple articles based on custom software development, web application development, etc. If you need to hire PHP developer then simply get in touch with Amanda via Twitter.