Selecting the ideal Java IDE is crucial for a smooth and efficient development experience. With a vast array of options available, navigating the choices can be challenging. This comprehensive guide explores the top Java IDEs for developers, outlining their key features, strengths, and considerations.
By understanding these factors, you can choose the perfect tool to match your project needs and coding style, ultimately propelling your Java development journey to new heights.
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What is Java?
Java is a powerful programming language used to build a wide range of applications, from mobile apps to complex enterprise software. It’s known for being platform-independent (works on different systems) and easy to learn, making it a popular choice for developers.
Here are some key features that contribute to Java’s popularity:
- Platform independence: Java code, once compiled into bytecode, can run on any platform with a Java Virtual Machine (JVM) installed, making it “write once, run anywhere.“
- Object-oriented: Java promotes object-oriented programming principles, allowing for better code organization, reusability, and maintainability.
- Secure: Java incorporates various security features to protect applications from vulnerabilities.
- Large community and resources: Java has a vast developer community and extensive online resources and tutorials, making it easier to learn and troubleshoot.
Best Java IDE for Developers
Java is one of the oldest programming languages which computer programmers use to create programmers and it is also used in development. Now when it comes to writing Java, there are multiple choices of IDEs that you can use according to your requirements. Each IDE has its unique features and capabilities. Here is the list of the Best Java IDE that a developer can use to build scalable applications.
1. Eclipse
Eclipse is a popular Java IDE that contributes to around 48% of the market share. It is an astonishing IDE that has a user rating of 4.8 and user satisfaction of 92%. It offers an extensive plugin system that allows developers to customize their own features. It supports more than 100 programming languages including Groovy, JavaScript, C++, Python, and a lot more. Some of the amazing features of Eclipse are:
- It is cross-platform that runs on macOS, Linux, and Windows.
- Eclipse provides features like Editing, Browsing, Debugging, and Refactoring.
- It supports extensive debugging features that allow you to debug both remotely and locally.
2. NetBeans
NetBeans is an integrated development environment for Java. It is an amazing IDE with a user rating of 4.1 out of 5 and user satisfaction of a massive 82%. It runs on Windows, Linux, macOS, and Solaris. It has the presence of inbuilt tools that add value to the whole software development lifecycle from product design to deployment. Some key features of NetBeans are:
- It detects errors and provides you with smart code compilation features.
- From NetBeans, you can directly create, debug, deploy, and test the applications.
- It has really simple and easy management features.
- It has amazing code comparison features that help you to write similar code simultaneously.
3. IntelliJ IDEA
IntelliJ IDEA is among the best Java IDE. It is also the most popular Java IDE that comprising more than 33% of the market share. It has tools like a version control system, frameworks, and support for different languages. As per the latest report, IntelliJ IDEA has a magnificent user rating of 4.3 and massive user satisfaction of 89%. Some astonishing features of this IDE are:
- It has a smart code completion feature that provides the feasibility of completing code with ease.
- It enhanced debugging features that allow you to code in a more efficient manner.
- It has a really strong integration with application servers.
- It also offers some amazing tools like Perforce integration, duplicate detection, JavaScript and database tools, etc in its paid version.
To get more information about working with this IDE visit the Geeks for Geeks IntelliJ IDEA application.
4. BlueJ
BlueJ is an integrated development environment for the Java programming language. It is a free Java IDE and the best IDE for Java web development, which was started in 1999 by John Rosenberg and Michael Kolling. As per the latest survey, BlueJ has a user satisfaction rating of 4.2 and amazing user satisfaction of 80%. It was developed initially for educational and training purposes. Some of the key features of this IDE are:
- It provides robust debugging options as errors are indicated at the bottom of the screen.
- It is really simple, easy, and convenient to work on.
- It runs on Mac OS, Linux, and Windows.
- It offers many innovative features like a code pad, scope coloring, and an object bench.
To know more about this amazing IDE click here.
5. JDeveloper
JDeveloper is a free integrated development environment supplied by Oracle Corporation. This amazing IDE has a user rating of 4 out and 5 and massive user satisfaction of 80%. It also offers extensive features for development in XML, SQL, PL/SQL, JavaScript, HTML, BPEL, and PHP. Some key highlights of this IDE are:
- It has extensive debugging features that allow users to quickly check audit rules and fix minor issues directly.
- It can be used on platforms like Linux, Windows, and macOS.
- It has an amazing web development environment that offers drag-and-drop functionality which makes application design convenient.
6. JCreator
JCreator is a top Java IDE which is developed by Xinox Software. Its interface is quite similar to Microsoft Visual Studio. It is written entirely in C++ hence it is really efficient and faster as compared to other IDEs of Java. Some key features of JCreator are:
- It is present in three different versions which include Pro Edition (Pro), Lite Edition (LE), and Lite-Pro Edition.
- It provides users with enhanced functionalities like code completion, debugging project management, debugger, syntax highlighting, etc.
- It is the best Java IDE for beginners due to its smaller size and higher speed.
7. DrJava
DrJava is an extremely lightweight IDE of Java that is designed, developed, and maintained by the JavaPLT group at Rice University. It has an inbuilt debugger and provides support for testing through Junit. It also offers automatic indentation, automatic completion, commenting, and flawless integration with Eclipse through the plugin. Some key features of DrJava are:
- It is really lightweight and fosters faster execution.
- It has an amazing interaction feature that allows each class to be executed separately making troubleshooting flawless.
- It has a consistent appearance on different platforms.
8. Xcode
Xcode is an IDE that is built for the macOS operating system. If you have MacBook then you can use it to run Java applications and programs. It is very helpful in creating Java application that suits Apple products really well. Xcode has some Java templates that you can follow to make improvements to your code. It has an interface builder tool that you can use to create an amazing interface without writing code. Some key features of Xcode are:
- It provides a very suitable environment to create Java applications for Apple products like Macbook, iMac, and iPhone.
- It does provide the functionality of Version control.
- It has some inbuild software tools for Java Developers to make great user interfaces for the application.
9. Greenfoot
Greenfoot is one of the top Java IDEs for Developers made for the purpose of education at the school and college level by King’s College London. Since it is made for the purpose of students, hence its GUI is very simple and beginner-friendly. It provides the best environment for real-time programming and interaction between students and instructors. Some key features of Greenfoot are:
- To provide help to beginners it facilitates online tutorials and documentation.
- Using this IDE, developers can also build 2D games.
- It is free to use and available in all major operating systems like macOS, Windows, and Linux.
10. MyEclipse
MyEclipse is built on the Eclipse platform and is used to build full-stack Java applications. To make the process of Java application faster, it facilitates multiple tools like database and spring tools. It is a paid IDE but offers other free versions with fewer resources and features. You can develop both front-end and back-end with the help of this IDE. Some key features of MyEclipse are:
- It has a toolkit for the support of the Software Development life cycle
- To build automation tools it integrates with Maven
- It enables building with spring framework technology
Conclusion
Choosing the right Java IDE can significantly enhance your development efficiency and productivity. By considering the factors discussed in this guide and exploring the recommended options, you’re well on your way to selecting the perfect IDE that suits your specific needs. Remember, the ideal choice is individual, so feel free to experiment and discover the IDE that sparks your coding creativity. Happy coding!
Also Read:
FAQs on 10 Best Java IDE For Developers in 2024
What are the best Java IDEs for Developers?
Best Java IDE are those that align with you project requirements. These are the top Java IDEs for Developers that can be used to create great applications
- Eclipse
- Netbeans
- BlueJ
- JDeveloper
- IntelliJ IDEA
Is VS code good for Java?
Visual Studio Code is one of the greatest software for Java Development. It has a huge collection of extension support and has quick editing and debugging tools for Java Developers
Which is the best Java IDE for Beginners?
As a beginner in Java, you can try out Eclipse, IntelliJ Idea, and BlueJ, these are very beginner friendly and a beginner can easily understand its interface. So these are good IDEs to start with.