13 BEST Java IDE (2021 Update)

Java is a programming language and a computing platform for application development. It was first released by Sun Microsystem in 1995 and later acquired by Oracle Corporation. It is one of the most used programming languages. There are numerous IDE for Java that offer smart code completion and validate errors in real time. Choosing the best Java IDE from a plethora of options could be a challenge.

Following is a handpicked list of Top Java IDE's, with their popular features and website links. The list contains both open source (free) and commercial (paid) software.

Best Java IDE & Compilers

Here are more details of the tool

1) Eclipse

Eclipse is an IDE for writing and compiling Java programs. It highlights the syntax you have written. This tool enables you to easily debug the program.

Features:

• It provides you readymade code template.
• This tool automatically validates syntax.
• It supports code refactoring. (A process of improving internal code structure).
• Eclipse enables you to manage the project remotely.
• The software has a user-friendly interface with drag and drop facility.
• You can extend the functionality of Eclipse using plugins.
• It can be used on Windows, Linux, and OS X.

Link:https://www.eclipse.org/downloads/

2) Kite

Kite is IDE for Java that automatically completes multiple line codes. This editor supports more than 16 languages. It helps you to code faster with no hassle.

Price: Free

Features:

• It offers Java documentation.
• This editor provides a function signature as you type.
• You will get a tooltip on mouse hover.
• Provides support in email.
• Uses machine learning models for Java language.

3) IntelliJ IDEA

IntelliJ IDEA is a multi-purpose IDE which focuses on Java development. It offers advanced support for the web, mobile, and also hybrid application development.

Features:

• It analyses source code between all project files and languages.
• This tool gives a list of the most relevant symbols applicable in the current context.
• It allows cross-language refactoring.
• This tool searches duplicate code fragments on the fly.
• Inspections and quick fixes.
• IntelliJ IDEA offers an editor-centric environment.
• It allows users to use static methods or constants easily.

Link: https://www.jetbrains.com/idea/

4) BlueJ

BlueJ is a free Java IDE design for beginners. It enables you to scan code visually much faster. The tool offers many extensions to extend its functionality.

Features:

• It has a smaller, simple, and portable interface.
• It allows you to run Java objects while you run the program.
• You can use this tool without installing it.
• Supported platforms are Windows, Mac OS X, and Ubuntu.

Link: https://www.bluej.org/

5) MyEclipse

MyEclipse by CodeMix is a simple Java IDE. This software offers real-time validation of errors as you write the program. It enables you to customize themes.

Features:

• Supports syntax coloring.
• It allows you to set breakpoints.
• Offers a robust debugger.
• You can quickly open a file and run your code.
• Write code from the browser.
• It has a built-in Tomcat server.
• MyEclipse provides numerous libraries and wizards.

Link: https://www.genuitec.com/products/myeclipse/

6) Xcode

Xcode is an editor that can be used to write Java programs with ease. It offers automatic code completion facility, code folding, syntax highlighting, and more.

Features:

• You can quickly open any file.
• It allows you to compare two files graphically.
• You can debug the program easily using Xcode debugger.
• Xcode offers an assistant editor that shows helpful files like callers, header counterpart, etc.

Link: https://developer.apple.com/xcode/

7) Apache NetBeans

Apache NetBeans is an integrated development environment for writing Java programs. It has a project window that shows a list of projects currently exists.

Features:

• You can easily see the structure of the PHP class.
• It automatically completes the brackets.
• This app has service windows that show currently available external services.
• It offers readymade templates for writing a script.
• You can format a piece of code using a keyboard shortcut.
• The tool highlights PHP variables and keywords.
• Netbeans provides parameter hints by typing $ symbol.

Link: https://netbeans.org/

8) jGRASP

jGRASP is a lightweight Java development environment. It is designed for the automatic generation of software visualization. This tool run program by using JVM (Java Virtual Machine).

Features:

• This tool offers a graphical debugger.
• The source code can be easily folded depend on CSD (Control Structure Diagram) structure.
• It provides syntax-based coloring.
• jGRASP has icons and menus for compile, run, and debug any program.

Link: https://www.jgrasp.org/

9) Codota

Codota is a tool that is compatible with Webstorm, Intellij, Eclipse, and Android Studio. This tool can automatically complete the line. It offers code examples that are relevant to your project in the IDE.

Features:

• It keeps your code private.
• You can write programs faster-using code prediction features.
• This tool helps you to prevent errors by providing suggestions.
• It offers an efficient way to discover code without leaving the software.

Link: https://www.codota.com/

10) Codenvy

Codenvy is an open-source cloud IDE. This application includes a multi-user remote development platform. This tool offers SDK (System Development Kit) for creating plugins for frameworks, tools, or languages.

Features:

• It allows you to access projects from more than one device.
• Programmers can share the workspace.
• Offers extensions and APIs.
• You can effortlessly operate your cloud the way you need it.
• Manage versions with ease.
• It can automate the lifecycle of the workspace.

Link: https://codenvy.com/

11) Slickedit

SlickEdit is a cross-platform IDE for writing Java programs. It supports more than 60 languages. This tool can load large files quickly.

Features:

• You can customize menu items.
• It enables you to open a file without typing a path.
• Easy to integrate Subversion, CVS, etc.
• You can expand a common block structure.
• SlickEdit can automatically formats code when pasted.
• You can create multi-platform GUI dialogue boxes.
• This software automatically saves the file after a period of inactivity.

Link: http://slickedit.com/

12) JBoss Forge

JBoss Forge is a software developing application. It provides wizards and extensions for writing programs. This software has various tools that help you to write Java applications.

Features:

• It enables you to enhance your workflow.
• You can browse the add-ons with ease.
• This application keeps your developing process fast and easy.
• It helps you work in environments like Eclipse, IntelliJ, NetBeans, and more.
• Supported platforms are Linux, OSX, and Windows.

Link: https://forge.jboss.org/

13) JDeveloper

JDeveloper is an IDE that can simplify Java-based applications. It enables you to manage the full software lifecycle.

It offers a visual editor.

Features:

• It supports Java EE (Enterprise Edition) and Java SE (Standard Edition).
• This application helps you to develop a mobile app and website.
• It has a drag and drop functionality.
• JDeveloper offers a user-friendly interface.
• You can easily connect your java program with the database.

Link: https://www.oracle.com/application-development/technologies/jdeveloper.html

14) JEdit

JEdit is a Java Integrated development environment. It offers word wrap (move the mouse cursor to the next line without pressing enter) feature. This tool supports Unicode and UTF8.

Features:

• This lightweight Java IDE enables you to download/ save Java plugins using the plugin manager in your computer.
• It is highly customizable and configurable.
• This software provides keyboard commands for manipulating lines, paragraphs, and words.
• The software offers unlimited undo/redo feature.
• Copy-paste with unlimited clipboards.
• Developers can get comprehensive online help.
• It enables you to use keyboard shortcuts.
• Supported platforms are Unix, Mac OS X, Windows, VMS, and more.

Link: http://www.jedit.org/

FAQ

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