Fact checked by In this article, I share my picks for the best Angular IDE in 2024.
In the fast-changing world of Angular development, it’s fair to say that the best IDE for Angular can have a huge impact on your coding experience.
Whether you're experienced in Angular or a total beginner, Angular IDEs can boost your productivity, streamline your workflow, and make your coding more enjoyable.
What’s not to like?
But where do you start? Well, don’t worry, that’s why I’ve written this article.
Whether you want to prioritize a seamless debugging experience, advanced code completion, or extensive plugin support, there's an Angular IDE to meet your needs.
Let’s dive in.
What Are IDEs & Code Editors?
Whether you’re a college freshman taking your first JavaScript course or a principal developer at a major tech company, you need an IDE or a code editor to efficiently edit, read, and debug code, whether you're on Linux, Windows, or Mac.
But what is an IDE?
Great question. An Integrated Development Environment is a software package that facilitates code writing, testing, and debugging, all within a single application. For Angular developers, an IDE is a crucial tool to streamline the coding process and it's where you build your JavaScript projects!
To my mind, the most important thing to know about an IDE is that it increases your productivity by combining common developer tools such as software editing, building, testing, debugging, and packaging in one easy-to-use graphical user interface (GUI).
And that's not to mention other helpful features, like code refactoring, code search, code auto-completion, and continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD).
Moving on to the IDE's cousin, the code editor.
Sometimes mistaken for IDEs, the main difference is that IDEs provide more powerful tools to simplify the coding process. That said, popular code editors like Visual Studio Code have become so fully featured that it's hard to differentiate between the two!
So, to keep things simple, I'll be including both types of coding environments in this article.
The Role of AI in Modern IDEs
You've likely noticed that AI is becoming increasingly prevalent in the development world, whether that's Angular development or any other type of software development.
The best proof of this is the increasing inclusion and support for AI coding assistants in modern IDEs. This allows you to use the AI assistant as a pair programmer, whether that's with AI tools like GitHub Copilot, Amazon CodeWhisperer, or TabNine.
If you're not yet familiar with these tools, they are insanely powerful, with the ability to auto-complete code or even generate entire functions based on natural language comments.
But why am I bringing this up?
Simple, when it comes to selecting your preferred web development IDE, I'd highly encourage you to consider not just your current needs but also future trends, and this means choosing an IDE that supports AI features that can set you up for long-term success.
Many of the options in my list offer this, with my top three picks, VSCode, WebStorm, and IntelliJ IDEA all offering support for a range of AI assistants.
The 8 Best Angular IDEs In 2024
1. Visual Studio Code
Developed by Microsoft for Windows, Linux, and macOS, Visual Studio Code, commonly known as VS Code, it's without a doubt my personal favorite IDE, as not only is it well suited to JavaScript and Angular development, but it's also versatile enough to let me code in a range of languages for various projects.
And before you say anything, yes, you're right; it's actually a code editor, not an IDE! But for most web developers, this distinction is probably not very important in 2024, as it's so richly featured that you likely wouldn't notice the difference.
As a free and open-source editor licensed under the MIT License, VS Code supports a broad spectrum of web technologies, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and popular JavaScript framework options like Angular (of course!), React, and Vue.js.
I also like that VSCode strikes a balance between functionality and performance, offering a suite of features tailored for web developers, including a range of VSCode themes to add your own personality to your coding environment.
These include real-time HTML and CSS editing, JavaScript debugging, responsive design testing tools, and built-in Git support for version control.
For those seeking a versatile, efficient, and customizable web development environment, VS Code stands out. Its popularity among developers is bolstered by its compatibility with AI coding assistants like GitHub Copilot, enhancing coding efficiency and accuracy.
The heart of VS Code lies in its extension-based architecture. The editor is inherently lightweight, with the flexibility to expand its capabilities through an extensive library of over 30,000 VSCode extensions. This modularity allows for a highly personalized development environment.
Advantages:
- Seamless integration with a wide array of web development tools and languages.
- Extensive library of extensions, enabling customization to suit individual workflow needs.
- Integrated terminal and debugging tools streamline the development process.
Disadvantages:
- The sheer volume of available extensions can make initial setup and customization daunting for new users.
- Some users might find the need to rely on multiple extensions for comprehensive functionality cumbersome.
2. WebStorm
I'll point it out now, but there are going to be a few products from JetBrains on this list of JavaScript IDEs! But what can I say? They make great IDEs! And WebStorm is one that firmly deserves the second position on my list, particularly for developers who focus on JavaScript and its ecosystem like Angular.
Available for Windows, Linux, and macOS, Webstorm was designed specifically for modern JavaScript development, with support for frameworks like Angular, React, Vue.js, and Node.js.
This makes it an ideal cross-platform IDE to use if you're thinking of taking a JavaScript course or you're just starting out with JS.
One of the standout features of WebStorm for me is its deep code understanding, with intelligent code completion, navigation, and refactoring for JavaScript. It also covers TypeScript, stylesheet languages, and the most popular JS frameworks.
Trust me, this level of code intelligence can significantly enhance your productivity and code quality.
WebStorm also excels in debugging, as the built-in tools make it simple to diagnose and fix issues in my code. This can be great if you need to debug Node.js apps and client-side code.
Something else I really like is the seamless integration with tools like Git, GitHub, and test runners, as it makes it much easier for me to take care of version control and testing with large-scale projects.
If you're a developer who's invested in the JavaScript ecosystem, WebStorm is an excellent choice whether you're working on front-end projects, server-side applications, or full-stack development.
Advantages:
- Tailored for JavaScript development, providing optimized support for the language and its frameworks.
- Intelligent code assistance and analysis tools enhance coding efficiency and maintainability.
- Powerful built-in tools for debugging, version control, and testing offer a comprehensive development experience.
Disadvantages:
- As a specialized IDE for JavaScript, it requires a paid subscription for continued use.
- The focus on JavaScript and related technologies might limit its appeal for developers looking for broader language support.
- Some users may find the interface and plethora of features overwhelming, especially those new to development or preferring simpler setups.
3. Angular IDE
Angular IDE by CodeMix is one of the strongest contenders for Angular-specific development, as it's Designed to cater explicitly to Angular developers by offering a streamlined experience that is highly optimized for building Angular applications.
Angular IDE is available for Windows, Linux, and macOS, making it a versatile option for developers across different platforms.
It's built on top of Eclipse, which means it can integrate seamlessly with other tools and plugins within the Eclipse ecosystem. This setup makes it ideal for developers who are already familiar with Eclipse or want to leverage its extensive plugin library.
What I appreciate most about Angular IDE is its deep integration with the Angular framework. It offers features like Angular CLI support directly within the IDE, which simplifies project creation, building, and deployment.
Additionally, real-time validation and auto-completion for Angular-specific code and TypeScript provide a smooth development experience that reduces errors and enhances productivity.
Another key feature is its advanced HTML template intelligence. Angular IDE provides real-time validation and display of errors as you type, which is incredibly beneficial for catching mistakes early on.
It also supports advanced navigation capabilities within Angular components, allowing developers to jump to definitions and references easily, which speeds up development and debugging.
Moreover, Angular IDE includes a rich development toolkit with support for TypeScript and JavaScript, making it easier to manage large-scale applications. It integrates with popular version control systems like Git, allowing seamless code management and collaboration.
The built-in Terminal+ view is a convenient feature for running command-line tools without leaving the IDE environment.
For developers focused on Angular, Angular IDE provides a tailored experience that maximizes efficiency and maintains a clear focus on best practices for Angular development.
Advantages:
- Specifically optimized for Angular, offering integrated support for Angular CLI and real-time validation for Angular templates and TypeScript.
- Deep integration with Eclipse, allowing access to a vast range of plugins and tools within the Eclipse ecosystem.
- Advanced navigation and code intelligence features enhance productivity and reduce development errors.
Disadvantages:
- Requires a paid license for access to the full range of features, similar to other specialized IDEs.
- As a specialized IDE, it might not be suitable for developers looking for broad support across multiple frameworks or languages.
- While powerful, the Eclipse-based interface can be overwhelming for beginners or developers who prefer a lighter, more streamlined setup.
4. Sublime Text
Sublime Text Editor is one of those tools that I always keep in my development toolkit, which is why it's earned its place as the fourth entry on my list.
Available for Windows, Linux, and macOS, Sublime Text is a sophisticated source code editor renowned for its speed and efficiency. It also supports a wide range of web technologies, which is great for JavaScript and HTML projects.
What I particularly appreciate about Sublime Text is its user-centric design. It's incredibly lightweight and fast, reducing the time spent waiting for the editor to respond, which is a significant advantage when working on larger projects.
The interface is clean and uncluttered, providing a distraction-free environment that enhances focus and productivity.
Sublime Text's features, such as the "Goto Anything" function, multiple selections, and powerful search capabilities, greatly streamline the coding process. These tools allow quick navigation and editing, making the workflow more efficient.
Moreover, while it doesn’t have an extensive built-in library like VS Code, Sublime Text’s functionality can be extended through a variety of plugins.
And by using Package Control, the package manager for Sublime Text, you get access to thousands of plugins, themes, and color schemes, which can significantly enhance the development experience.
Advantages:
- Exceptional performance, with a focus on speed and efficiency.
- Clean, minimalist interface that reduces distractions and enhances focus.
- Highly customizable through plugins, allowing for a tailored development environment.
Disadvantages:
- The necessity of purchasing a license for continuous, uninterrupted use.
- Limited built-in features compared to some other editors, relying more on plugins for extended functionality.
- The initial learning curve involved in setting up and customizing with plugins.
5. IntelliJ IDEA
The next entry on my list from JetBrains is IntelliJ IDEA. Sure, you might be most familiar with this as a Java IDE, but hear me out, as it's also a strong choice for JavaScript and Angular development.
Available for Windows, Linux, and macOS, IDEA is renowned for its effectiveness in handling many programming languages, including crucial choices for web development like Java, Kotlin, JavaScript, HTML, and CSS.
Offering both a Community version and an Ultimate edition, IntelliJ IDEA is a great choice whatever your development needs.
The Ultimate Edition, in particular, is a powerhouse with advanced support for web frameworks, application servers, and database tools, making it an excellent choice for full-stack web development.
One of the things I particularly like about IntelliJ IDEA is its intelligent coding assistance. It goes beyond basic code completion by understanding the nuances of code structures and offering relevant suggestions that improve both the speed and quality of my coding.
Trust me, this is a significant time-saver, especially when working with complex Java projects and web development projects.
Of course, you also get built-in tools for debugging, testing, and version control to help simplify the process of developing, maintaining, and deploying web applications. Plus, IntelliJ IDEA's seamless integration with popular automation tools and CI/CD pipelines further enhances its appeal to professional developers.
Finally, IDEA's integration with front-end technologies and frameworks means you can efficiently work on server-side and client-side code within a single environment. This is really handy.
Advantages:
- Robust support for a wide range of programming languages and web technologies.
- Advanced coding assistance and refactoring capabilities streamline the development process.
- Integrated debugging, testing, and version control tools offer a comprehensive development experience.
Disadvantages:
- The Ultimate Edition, offering the most extensive features, is a paid product.
- There are reports that it can be resource-hungry, which might slow down performance on older machines.
- The abundance of features and options might be overwhelming for beginners or those who prefer a simpler development environment.
6. Brackets
Developed by Adobe, Brackets is another excellent tool for front-end developers and web designers, as it's a lightweight yet powerful, open-source text editor for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Brackets is particularly well-known for its focus on visual tools and preprocessor support, making it great if you prioritize design and visual elements in web development.
One of my favorite features of Brackets is the live preview functionality. This is great for seeing changes in your browser in real-time as you code. It's also really beneficial for CSS editing, as you can see how your styles affect the layout without leaving the editor or refreshing the page.
Another plus point for Brackets is its focus on modern web development since it comes with built-in support for popular preprocessors like SCSS and LESS for modern web development workflows.
Plus, if you're heavily invested in the Adobe Creative Cloud ecosystem, Brackets' integration with these services can be a huge bonus.
I also appreciate Brackets' clean and intuitive user interface, which makes it accessible for beginners yet robust enough for advanced users thanks to support for extensions that allow you to expand its functionality to suit your development needs.
If you're a web developer or designer who tends to focus on front-end development and value real-time visual feedback, Brackets is a great choice.
Advantages:
- Live preview feature enables real-time browser view, which is highly beneficial for CSS and HTML development.
- Strong preprocessor support, catering well to modern web development practices.
- Intuitive interface, suitable for both beginners and experienced developers.
Disadvantages:
- While powerful for front-end development, it might lack some features needed for more complex or back-end focused tasks.
- The range of extensions is somewhat limited compared to other editors like Visual Studio Code.
- As a product from Adobe, there may be concerns about long-term support and updates, especially after Adobe's decision to sunset other products.
7. Eclipse
Eclipse, a long-standing favorite among Java developers, can be transformed into a powerful IDE for Angular development through the use of various Eclipse plugin options for Angular.
These tailor Eclipse to cater specifically to Angular projects, offering a robust and streamlined experience for building Angular applications.
Eclipse with Angular plugins is available for Windows, Linux, and macOS, making it a flexible choice for developers across different operating systems. By leveraging the Eclipse platform, developers can tap into a rich ecosystem of plugins and tools, making it a practical option for those already familiar with Eclipse or those who prefer its extensibility.
One of the standout features of Eclipse is its ability to integrate directly with the Angular CLI. This integration allows developers to create, build, and deploy Angular projects seamlessly within the IDE, making the development workflow more efficient and streamlined.
Eclipse also offers robust support for TypeScript and Angular-specific code, providing real-time validation, intelligent code completion, and syntax highlighting. This level of support helps reduce coding errors and enhances productivity, enabling developers to write clean, maintainable code more efficiently.
The IDE's advanced HTML template intelligence is another strong point. It offers real-time validation and error detection within Angular templates, which helps catch mistakes as you type. This feature, combined with Eclipse’s powerful refactoring tools, ensures that developers can navigate and modify code with ease.
Eclipse also excels in navigation capabilities, allowing developers to quickly jump between definitions and references within Angular components. This feature is invaluable for speeding up debugging and understanding complex codebases.
Moreover, Eclipse supports integration with popular version control systems like Git, facilitating seamless code management and collaboration. The Terminal view within Eclipse allows developers to execute command-line tasks directly, further enhancing its versatility.
For developers focused on Angular development, Eclipse with Angular plugins provides a customizable and powerful environment that can adapt to the needs of large-scale applications while maintaining best practices.
Advantages:
- Versatile and highly customizable, thanks to Eclipse’s extensive plugin ecosystem, making it adaptable to various development needs.
- Integrated support for Angular CLI and real-time validation for Angular templates and TypeScript ensures a smooth and efficient development experience.
- Advanced code navigation and refactoring tools enhance productivity and maintainability, especially in large projects.
Disadvantages:
- Requires careful setup and configuration of plugins to optimize for Angular development, which can be time-consuming.
- The extensive range of features and options can be overwhelming for beginners or developers who prefer simpler environments.
- While Eclipse itself is open-source, some advanced plugins or features may require a paid license, depending on the plugin provider.
8. Atom by GitHub (Now Sunsetted)
Now, before we get started with Atom, I have to point out that it's now been officially sunsetted by GitHub. For me personally, this was sad news, as I've spent many hours happily coding inside the Atom editor.
But, despite this, I think it's only fair to include this open-source text editor from GitHub at the eighth spot on my list, as it's still widely used, even if it's no longer being actively developed or maintained.
Available for Windows, Linux, and macOS, Atom is well-liked for its customizable nature and user-friendly interface., not to mention its support for a wide range of programming languages for web development, including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
One of the features I appreciated most about Atom was its modularity. This allowed extensive customization through add-ons and themes, which could transform the editor to suit a wide variety of development needs. I think many other developers also appreciated this flexibility as it lets them tailor their coding environment.
Another notable aspect of Atom is the built-in package manager, as this made it easy to find and install new packages directly within the editor.
Of course, with the sunset having already occurred, your experience with Atom may vary, and I'd probably encourage you to explore alternatives like Visual Studio Code or Sublime Text, as these offer similar features and are actively maintained.
Advantages:
- Highly customizable with a wide range of packages and themes.
- User-friendly interface that was accessible to developers at all skill levels.
- Strong community support, with a vast array of community-developed packages enhancing its functionality.
Disadvantages:
- With the sunset of Atom, there are no further updates or official support, which can lead to security vulnerabilities and compatibility issues over time.
- It could be resource-intensive, especially with multiple packages installed.
- As a sunsetted product, new users might find limited utility in adopting it for long-term projects.
Wrapping Up
So there you have it! The 8 best Angular IDEs available in 2024, including Angular IDEs for experienced developers and total beginners.
Whether you’re looking for professional Angular IDEs, lightweight code editors, or simple Angular IDEs to help you learn, there’s something for you on our list.
What do you think? What's your favorite Angular IDE? Let us know in the comments, and as always, happy coding!
Are you excited to try out a new Angular IDE but not sure if you have the JS skills? Check out:
Udemy's Complete JavaScript Course: From Zero to Expert
