As developers, we want our code editors and IDEs to be fast, flexible, and feature-rich—without getting in our way. In 2024, that means seamless support for multiple programming languages, intelligent auto-completion, built-in syntax checking, and, ideally, AI-assisted coding. While Visual Studio Code dominates the space, several compelling alternatives are gaining traction.
Among the top contenders are Zed, Eclipse Theia, Lite XL, and Cursor. These editors are available across Linux, macOS, and Windows—though Zed is currently limited to Linux and macOS, with a Windows release in the works. All four are free to use, except Cursor, which offers a limited free version alongside paid Pro ($20/month) and Business ($40/month) tiers.
AI-driven pair programming is becoming a standard expectation rather than an optional extra. While all four editors support AI-enhanced coding via extensions, Zed and Cursor stand out with native AI integrations designed to streamline the development workflow. This can significantly boost productivity—when used correctly.
That said, AI-generated code isn’t a magic bullet. Without proper review, debugging, and understanding, it can introduce inefficiencies, security risks, or outright bugs. AI assistance is a powerful tool, but it works best as a supplement, not a substitute, for solid coding skills and critical thinking.