10 Best NetBeans Alternatives & Competitors
If you’ve been using Apache NetBeans for a long time, you probably like how familiar and beginner-friendly it feels. But as projects grow, many developers start looking for faster performance, better plugins, modern UI, or stronger support for newer frameworks. That’s exactly why people search for NetBeans Alternatives today.
The good news is you have plenty of great options. Some tools focus on Java development, while others are lightweight code editors that work perfectly for web development, Python, PHP, and more. In this guide, I’ll share the 10 best NetBeans Alternatives that you can try based on your coding needs, operating system, and workflow.
Related: 150 NetBeans Keyboard Shortcuts
Why People Look for NetBeans Alternatives?
Even though Apache NetBeans is a solid IDE (especially for Java learners), it may not feel perfect for everyone. Many developers switch because they want a smoother experience, more flexibility, and better performance for modern development.
Here are the most common reasons people look for NetBeans Alternatives:
1) Faster performance on large projects
NetBeans can feel slow when you work with big codebases. Alternative IDEs often provide better indexing, faster startup time, and smoother navigation.
2) Better plugin ecosystem and extensions
Some IDEs offer larger marketplaces, more themes, better version control tools, and more integrations for popular languages and frameworks.
3) More modern UI and better developer experience
Many newer editors feel lighter, cleaner, and more customizable especially if you like minimal layouts and keyboard-based workflows.
4) Stronger support for multiple languages
While NetBeans is excellent for Java, many developers want one IDE/editor that handles web development, Python, PHP, C/C++, and cloud tools without limitations.
5) Advanced debugging & built-in productivity features
Several tools provide better debugging, auto-refactoring, intelligent suggestions, and AI-assisted coding features that help speed up daily work.
Quick Comparison Table of the Best NetBeans Alternatives
| Tool | Best For | Platform | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|
| IntelliJ IDEA | Java + advanced development | Windows, macOS, Linux | Free + Paid |
| Eclipse IDE | Java developers + plugins | Windows, macOS, Linux | Free |
| Visual Studio Code (VS Code) | Lightweight coding + extensions | Windows, macOS, Linux | Free |
| Microsoft Visual Studio | .NET + Windows development | Windows, macOS | Free + Paid |
| PhpStorm | PHP + Laravel + WordPress | Windows, macOS, Linux | Paid |
| Apple Xcode | iOS/macOS app development | macOS | Free |
| BlueJ | Learning Java (students) | Windows, macOS, Linux | Free |
| Oracle JDeveloper | Enterprise Java development | Windows, macOS, Linux | Free |
| Sublime Text | Fast editing + minimal setup | Windows, macOS, Linux | Paid (Trial) |
| MyEclipse | Java Enterprise + Spring tools | Windows, macOS, Linux | Paid |
10 Best NetBeans Alternatives (Top Picks)
Here are the best IDEs and editors you can consider if you want something faster, more modern, or more powerful than NetBeans. These tools are some of the most trusted NetBeans Alternatives for developers working on Java, web apps, mobile apps, and enterprise projects.
1. IntelliJ IDEA
IntelliJ IDEA is a premium-level IDE built for developers who want speed, accuracy, and a smoother coding experience especially for Java. Compared to traditional IDEs, IntelliJ feels more “smart” because it understands your code structure and predicts what you want to do next.
If you work on large projects like Spring Boot applications, enterprise-level Java apps, or even Android development (with the right setup), IntelliJ IDEA becomes a strong productivity booster. It also reduces manual work by offering quick fixes, refactoring suggestions, and powerful navigation options.
That’s why many developers consider it one of the most reliable IDEs when switching from NetBeans.
Key Features of IntelliJ IDEA:
- Smart auto-completion and real-time code analysis
- Powerful refactoring and debugging tools
- Git, Maven, Gradle integration built-in
- Supports Java, Kotlin, Spring Boot, and more
- Plugin marketplace for extra features
Pros:
- Extremely fast and accurate for Java coding
- Amazing code navigation + suggestions
- Best for large-scale projects
Cons:
- Can feel heavy on low-RAM systems
- Some features are locked behind the paid plan
Best for: Java developers, Spring Boot, and professional projects
Read more:
2. Eclipse IDE
Eclipse IDE is a classic choice for Java development and it’s still widely used in companies, universities, and enterprise teams. One big reason people stick with Eclipse is flexibility you can keep it lightweight for basic Java work, or turn it into a powerful setup using plugins.
If you’re moving from NetBeans and you like having a full IDE (not just a code editor), Eclipse can feel familiar. It supports large projects well, offers strong debugging tools, and works nicely with build tools like Maven and Gradle. That’s why it’s often listed among the top NetBeans Alternatives for Java developers who want a free, customizable environment.
Key Features of Eclipse IDE:
- Strong Java support with project management tools
- Plugin-based system (add what you need)
- Built-in debugging and refactoring tools
- Works with Maven/Gradle and popular frameworks
- Git integration via EGit (or built-in depending on setup)
Pros:
- Free and open-source
- Highly customizable through plugins
- Great for Java + enterprise-style projects
Cons:
- Can feel slow or heavy with too many plugins
- UI may feel dated compared to newer IDEs
Best for: Java developers who want a free IDE with plugin flexibility
Learn more: 108 Eclipse IDE Keyboard Shortcuts
3. Visual Studio Code (VS Code)
Visual Studio Code (VS Code) is a lightweight but powerful code editor that’s popular because it’s fast, clean, and easy to customize. Unlike heavy IDEs, VS Code starts quickly and feels smooth even on mid-range laptops which is a big reason many developers switch to it.
If you’re coming from NetBeans, VS Code can feel different at first because it’s editor-first. But once you add a few extensions (Java, Spring Boot, PHP, Python, etc.), it becomes a flexible development setup for almost anything. That’s why it’s often recommended as one of the best NetBeans Alternatives, especially if you want one tool that can handle multiple languages without feeling slow.
Key Features of Visual Studio Code (VS Code):
- Extension marketplace (Java, Python, PHP, C/C++, Git tools, etc.)
- Built-in terminal + Git integration
- IntelliSense auto-complete and smart suggestions
- Debugging support via extensions
- Highly customizable themes, shortcuts, and settings
Pros:
- Very fast and lightweight
- Great for multi-language development
- Huge extension library + strong community
Cons:
- Needs extensions to feel like a “full IDE”
- Too many extensions can slow it down over time
Best for: Developers who want a fast editor for web + multi-language projects
Related: 130 Visual Studio Code Keyboard Shortcuts
4. Microsoft Visual Studio
Microsoft Visual Studio is a full-featured IDE built mainly for Windows developers who want everything in one place coding, debugging, testing, building, and deployment. It’s not just a “code editor”; it’s a complete development environment designed for serious applications, especially when you’re working with .NET, C#, and Windows-based tools.
If you’re switching from NetBeans and your work includes desktop apps, enterprise solutions, game development, or backend services, Visual Studio can feel extremely powerful. It has excellent debugging tools, strong project templates, and deep integration with Microsoft technologies. That’s why it’s one of the strongest NetBeans Competitors when your goal is professional software development with advanced tooling.
Key Features of Microsoft Visual Studio:
- Best-in-class debugger and error inspection tools
- Strong support for C#, .NET, ASP.NET, and C++
- Built-in Git and Azure integration
- Drag-and-drop UI design tools (Windows apps)
- Extensions marketplace for extra tools
Pros:
- Extremely powerful for Windows + .NET development
- Great debugging, testing, and project management
- Community version is free for many users
Cons:
- Heavy installation and resource usage
- Best experience is on Windows (Mac version is limited)
Best for: .NET developers, Windows desktop apps, and enterprise solutions
Learn More:
5. PhpStorm
PhpStorm is a professional IDE made specifically for PHP developers who want speed, accuracy, and clean project organization. If your work includes websites, WordPress, Laravel, or any PHP-based backend development, PhpStorm feels like a powerful upgrade because it understands PHP deeply—not just basic syntax highlighting.
Compared to general IDEs, PhpStorm gives you smarter code completion, strong error detection, and easy navigation across files, functions, and classes. It also works great with modern front-end workflows (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, TypeScript), so it’s not limited to only PHP. That’s why developers often include PhpStorm in the list of alternatives to NetBeans when the main focus is building and maintaining real-world web projects.
Key Features of PhpStorm:
- Advanced PHP code intelligence + auto-completion
- Laravel, Symfony, WordPress-friendly workflow
- Built-in debugging (Xdebug support)
- Git integration + database tools
- Supports HTML, CSS, JS, and TypeScript in the same IDE
Pros:
- Best IDE for PHP development
- Great for large web projects with clean navigation
- Strong refactoring and debugging tools
Cons:
- Paid tool (no permanent free version)
- Can feel heavy for simple small projects
Best for: PHP developers, WordPress, Laravel, and backend web apps
90 JetBrains PhpStorm Keyboard Shortcuts
6. Xcode
Xcode is Apple’s official IDE for building apps on macOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Apple TV. If you want to develop iOS or macOS applications, Xcode is not just an option it’s basically the main tool most developers use because it’s tightly integrated with Apple’s ecosystem.
For developers switching from NetBeans, Xcode highlights a different kind of workflow. It focuses heavily on app development using Swift or Objective-C, and it includes powerful tools like Interface Builder (for designing app UI) and a built-in iOS simulator. If your goal is mobile or macOS app development, Xcode easily becomes one of the most practical NetBeans Alternatives you can choose.
Key Features of Xcode:
- Best IDE for Swift and Objective-C development
- iOS Simulator for testing apps without a real device
- Interface Builder for drag-and-drop UI design
- Built-in debugging and performance profiling tools
- Direct App Store publishing workflow (with Apple developer account)
Pros:
- Official and best-supported IDE for Apple app development
- Powerful UI design + testing tools
- Completely free on macOS
Cons:
- Only available on macOS
- Can be heavy and slow on older Macs
Best for: iOS and macOS app development (Swift/Objective-C)
60 Apple XCode Keyboard Shortcuts
7. BlueJ
BlueJ is a beginner-friendly Java IDE designed mainly for students and people who are learning programming for the first time. Unlike heavy professional IDEs, BlueJ keeps things simple and focuses on helping you understand how Java classes, objects, and methods actually work.
If NetBeans feels too complex for learning or teaching Java, BlueJ can be a great alternative because it offers a clean interface and visual class diagrams. It’s also commonly used in schools and college courses because it makes Java concepts easier to grasp without overwhelming the user. That’s why BlueJ is often included in lists of NetBeans Alternatives for learners who want a simple and focused Java environment.
Key Features of BlueJ:
- Simple Java IDE with a clean layout
- Visual class structure (great for learning OOP)
- Easy compilation and execution for small projects
- Beginner-friendly menus and project setup
- Supports extensions and basic debugging tools
Pros:
- Best for Java beginners and students
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Makes object-oriented programming easier to understand
Cons:
- Not ideal for large or professional projects
- Limited advanced tooling compared to IntelliJ or Eclipse
Best for: Java learners, students, and classroom teaching
8. Oracle JDeveloper
Oracle JDeveloper is an enterprise-focused IDE designed mainly for building Java applications, especially in Oracle-based business environments. If your work involves Oracle technologies, database-driven applications, or enterprise frameworks, JDeveloper can be a strong choice because it’s built to handle large-scale development workflows.
Compared to lighter IDEs, JDeveloper includes deep support for Oracle platforms like ADF (Application Development Framework), database tools, and enterprise application development. It’s not the most popular IDE for casual developers, but for companies already using Oracle products, it becomes a practical option. That’s why Oracle JDeveloper is often included in lists of NetBeans Alternatives when the goal is enterprise-level Java development.
Key Features of Oracle JDeveloper:
- Strong Java and enterprise app development support
- Oracle ADF development tools
- Built-in database integration and management
- Visual editors for UI and application components
- Supports web services and enterprise frameworks
Pros:
- Great for Oracle-based enterprise development
- Built-in database tools save setup time
- Strong support for complex business applications
Cons:
- Can feel heavy and complex for beginners
- Best suited for Oracle ecosystems (not general use)
Best for: Enterprise Java developers working with Oracle technologies
9. Sublime Text
Sublime Text is a lightweight and super-fast code editor that many developers love for its smooth performance and clean design. If you want something quick for editing code without heavy setup, Sublime Text feels almost instant especially when opening large files or working on multiple scripts at once.
Compared to full IDEs like NetBeans, Sublime Text focuses more on speed and simplicity. It doesn’t try to “do everything” by default, but you can add extra features using packages and plugins. For developers who mainly write code, edit files, and want a distraction-free workflow, Sublime Text is one of the best NetBeans Alternatives you can choose.
Key Features of Sublime Text:
- Very fast startup and lightweight performance
- Multi-cursor editing (huge productivity boost)
- Syntax highlighting for many languages
- Customizable shortcuts, themes, and settings
- Plugin support through Package Control
Pros:
- Extremely fast and responsive
- Great for quick editing and multi-language work
- Clean interface with powerful editing tools
Cons:
- Not a full IDE by default (needs plugins)
- Paid license (free trial available, but reminders appear)
Best for: Developers who want a fast, distraction-free code editor
Related:
10. MyEclipse
MyEclipse is a professional Java IDE built on top of Eclipse, designed mainly for enterprise and business-level development. It takes the core power of Eclipse and adds extra features that are useful for developers working with Java EE, Spring, web applications, and database-driven projects.
If you liked NetBeans because it felt like an all-in-one IDE for Java development, MyEclipse can give you a similar experience especially for enterprise projects where you need built-in tools and faster setup. It also comes with better support for frameworks and integrations that many business teams use daily. That’s why MyEclipse is often listed among the most reliable NetBeans Alternatives for Java enterprise developers.
Key Features of MyEclipse:
- Advanced Java EE and Spring development tools
- Built-in server integration and deployment support
- Strong database and ORM tools
- Code validation + debugging improvements
- Extra productivity features compared to regular Eclipse
Pros:
- Great for enterprise Java and web apps
- More “ready-to-use” than plain Eclipse
- Strong framework and server integration
Cons:
- Paid IDE (not fully free)
- Can still feel heavy on low-end systems
Best for: Enterprise Java developers using Spring, Java EE, and database tools
Which NetBeans Alternative Should You Choose?
With so many great tools available, choosing the right option depends on what you’re building and how you like to work. Some developers want a full IDE for Java projects, while others prefer lightweight editors that stay fast and simple.
Here’s a quick decision guide to help you pick the best tool from these NetBeans Alternatives based on your needs.
If you mainly work in Java (Professional Projects)
Best choice: IntelliJ IDEA
If you want the most powerful Java IDE with smart suggestions, refactoring, and clean project handling, IntelliJ IDEA is usually the best pick.
Also consider: Eclipse IDE, MyEclipse
- Eclipse = free + customizable
- MyEclipse = better for enterprise Java with extra tools
If you want a fast editor for multi-language development
Best choice: Visual Studio Code (VS Code)
VS Code is perfect if you work across multiple languages like Java, JavaScript, Python, PHP, and HTML/CSS. It stays lightweight and can be expanded with extensions.
Also consider: Sublime Text
- Sublime Text is faster for pure editing and quick work
- Great if you don’t want a full IDE setup
If you build Windows apps or work with .NET
Best choice: Microsoft Visual Studio
If you’re building professional Windows software or working with C# and .NET, Visual Studio is hard to beat because its debugging and development tools are extremely strong.
If your main focus is PHP (WordPress / Laravel / Web Apps)
Best choice: PhpStorm
PhpStorm is best if your daily work is mostly PHP. It makes large web projects easier to manage with strong navigation and debugging tools.
If you want to build iPhone or macOS apps
Best choice: Xcode
If your goal is iOS or macOS app development, Xcode is the right option because it’s built specifically for Apple’s ecosystem.
If you’re learning Java (Beginner or Student)
Best choice: BlueJ
BlueJ is ideal if you want a simple IDE to learn Java without dealing with complex settings and heavy tools.
Quick “Best Tool” Summary
- Best overall for Java: IntelliJ IDEA
- Best free IDE for Java: Eclipse IDE
- Best lightweight editor: VS Code
- Best for PHP development: PhpStorm
- Best for iOS/macOS apps: Xcode
- Best for beginners: BlueJ
- Best for fast editing: Sublime Text
- Best for enterprise Oracle dev: Oracle JDeveloper
- Best Eclipse upgrade for enterprise: MyEclipse
- Best for Windows + .NET: Microsoft Visual Studio
FAQs
Yes, NetBeans is still a solid IDE, especially for Java developers and students. It works well for basic-to-medium projects. However, many developers prefer newer IDEs because they offer faster performance, better plugin support, and more modern workflows.
For most developers, IntelliJ IDEA is considered the best option because of its smart code suggestions, powerful refactoring, and smooth handling of large projects. If you want a free option, Eclipse IDE is still a strong pick.
VS Code can be better if you prefer a lightweight editor that supports many languages and stays fast.
But NetBeans may feel easier if you want a complete Java IDE setup without installing extensions.
BlueJ is one of the best IDEs for beginners because it’s simple and focused on learning Java concepts. It’s widely used in schools and makes object-oriented programming easier to understand.
Yes. Tools like IntelliJ IDEA (and Android Studio, which is based on IntelliJ) can be used for Android development. Eclipse can also work, but it’s less common now for Android compared to modern setups.
Sublime Text is a code editor, not a full IDE. It’s extremely fast and great for editing, but if you need built-in debugging and project tools, a full IDE like IntelliJ IDEA or Visual Studio may be a better choice.
Choosing the right IDE or code editor depends on what you build and how you like to work. If you want a powerful Java-focused IDE, IntelliJ IDEA and Eclipse are great choices. If you prefer something lightweight and flexible for multiple languages, VS Code and Sublime Text are excellent options. And if you work in specialized development areas like PHP, iOS apps, or enterprise Oracle projects, tools like PhpStorm, Xcode, and JDeveloper can be a better fit.
My suggestion is simple: pick 2–3 tools from this list, test them for a few days, and stick with the one that feels fastest and most comfortable for your workflow.
