Opting for the right code editor is pivotal for an easier time when learning to code. There are many programming languages in use and most text editors don’t cover them all. However, settling for an app that offers syntax highlighting and package control is a must.
Writing code requires knowledge of at least a few languages. Plus, a practical command palette is all but necessary when starting out. Hence, programmers spend a lot of time testing new apps to find the most powerful source code editor. Nowadays, many cite Sublime Text as the best code editor available. However, VScode keeps on appearing in the conversation.
In this article, we’ll look into the VSCode vs Sublime code editors and compare their features. For example, we’ll gauge their code completion periods and deduce which is the more efficient text editor. As a result, you’ll be able to pick the better choice for tasks like web development or working with JavaScript.
Essential Points to Consider
A proper code editor should allow extensions and support dozens of languages. So, picking an app that has ongoing developer support is a must. Flexibility is your first concern when searching for a text editor
Compatibility with various OS is another essential. Otherwise, your choice is limited regarding what’s available for your setup. In comparison, using cross-platform software will allow you to continue working from anywhere
Selecting an app that supports at least the most common languages is necessary. As a developer, you’ll probably need to master multiple languages, Therefore, use an app that will allow you to freely switch between them. However, ensure to take these relevant points into account:
- Prefer software that provides a preview, which is very handy in practice to display code mid-work
- Multi-cursor editing is a neat feature that allows you to work on several files simultaneously
- Some apps highlight missing lines of code and alert you to such mishaps by default. Then, you can easily identify where you need to add a parameter or a variable
- Many code editors have buzzing communities that you can turn to for answers. Hence, inspect how easily you can troubleshoot an issue before settling for an app
- Remote collaboration is another relevant feature that you could always rely on. For example, consider how smooth working in Google Docs with your team is. However, you don’t have to be a google engineer to utilize such a function
- Look for an editor with built-in Git integration options. Otherwise, you may run into compatibility issues before long
- Pair the app with a database to utilize the IDE features. Then, you could easily find a particular directory and access other shortcuts
- The VSCode vs Sublime dilemma is difficult to resolve because both apps support various extensions.
- Large-scale development projects benefit from an advanced search and replace feature. Plus, it might fit your personal preferences from the get-go
Visual Studio Code – An Overview
Although a new name, VSCode already enjoys popularity among developers worldwide. Microsoft Corporation stands behind this product, ensuring it gets proper support in the future as well. Hence, it is a practical and flexible software that anyone can use.
Pros
- Includes a zero-install method when used directly on the web. Thus, the user can access a limited version of VSCode without leaving the browser
- Intellisense analyzes are available. This means you’ll receive suggestions as to how to finish a line while working. Plus, you’ll also view word-based snippets, symbol analysis, etc.
- Advanced Run and Debug view provides detailed insights to aid the workflow. Hence, you can start the debugging process with a reliable safety net
- Unlike in previous years, you won’t need Web Support when working with several languages. VSCode has an innate support system that auto-detects the various languages in use
- Utilizes prudent support for web applications. As a result, you can further expand the app’s utility by implementing new features
- Access the command palette to tailor your experience with the app. Then, you can select more than one file to open, alter the display, etc.
- Interact with the Extension Marketplace to find and install new add-ons. For example, add other languages or access new tools. Next, inspect all extensions in use via VSCode’s intuitive menu
- Syntax highlighting allows you to identify the different codes with ease. To that end, it applies color coding to the lines so you can spot each language in use
- There’s an accurate search function that saves a lot of time during a project
- Interact with GitHub Repo online to get new resources or upload them. Plus, you can also clone a line of code and share it on the net. Afterward, store it for further use
- You can place all reusable code in a single directory for better convenience
Sublime Text – An Overview
This app keeps on gaining followers ever since 2007. Australia’s Sublime HQ developed this software and licensed it afterward. However, they also allow liberal use of it to gain evaluation data. Therefore, Sublime Text is de facto free for any developer to use.
Pros
- Sublime Text provides a stylish command palette. You can navigate it to quickly find the function you need. To do so, start typing a keyword and the function will do the rest. As a result, it’s much quicker than navigating a menu
- You can avail of GPU rendering on Mac, Linux, or Windows PC. Hence, it can sum up to an 8K display resolution and a smooth UI
- Use keyboard shortcuts like ctrl+d or ctrl+f to highlight various functions
- The autocomplete widget syncs your document with all related files. This is a great time-saver that produces hundreds of word completions
- Thanks to the Python-based plugin API, you can quickly install new features to Sublime Text
- Gain access to hefty package control features. Next, select which plugins to use and ease your way while learning how to use the app to the fullest. Plus, you can find aid when working with HTML, Python, CSS, etc.
- Quickly find and insert symbols using ctrl+R. This leads to another pop-up window, where you can view each symbol’s position. Hence, you can always find the missing link and never stop working for long
- Expand the popular code snippets by creating new shortcuts
- The app allows you to work on several files even when they’re not paired with each other
A Direct Comparison Between VSCode and Sublime Text
Opting for one of these apps requires some know-how to cross-reference their functions. Also, every developer should look for the basic essentials when picking a code editor. Next up, we’ll highlight the most noteworthy aspect of these two products:
The Developer Behind the Software
Microsoft made VSCode and continues to update it to this day. On the other hand, a former Google engineer came up with the concept for Sublime Text.
The Core Framework and Overall Performance
Many favor Sublime Text only due to the fast-paced workflows it provides. In comparison, VSCode is a bit more cumbersome due to the electron framework. As a result, there’s a noticeable slowdown any time you boot up the app.
Generally, VSCode takes around 5 seconds to load. However, it also hogs a lot of space since it requires several processes to run. As for Sublime Text, it uses C++ and Python, meaning it easily outpaces VSCode in terms of performance.
Ability to Tailor the User Experience
Extensions are the name of the game here since developers need new ways to optimize their workflows. Thus, both of these apps support a myriad of plugins and add-ons. As a result, you can fully customize them and keep on evolving their functionality.
To that end, VSCode works on a JavaScript base, while Sublime Text uses Python. Next, you can freely modify each version and equip it with usable tools. However, note that some features may be missing when switching between these apps. In other words, the list of available plugins might not cover the same ground across the two products.
The Pricing Model
There’s a very practical free version of Sublime Text that you might be already familiar with. However, the full version comes at a price of $99. Still, while this might be considered high, note that the license is tied to the user. Thus, once you pay for the app, you can install it on a number of different devices.
VSCode, on the other hand, is a free open-source project. Still, it enjoys a thriving community that keeps on providing new features. Nowadays, its library is quite robust and houses thousands of usable plugins. Plus, you can use it on Linux, Windows, or Mac.
The Code Management Options
Both apps organize the files to the left of the main windows by default. Then, you can easily remove or replace the files with those tools. Also, you can apply various functions to them and navigate the code base fast.
As for the basic code management system, the apps offer equal amounts of quality. Thus, your choice depends on your personal preference more than anything.
The Usefulness of the Built-In Debugging Options
VSCode highlights all code errors automatically, directing your attention to them. In comparison, Sublime lacks such a function. However, a number of the available plugins make up for this. After installing them, you can also view code errors when working in Sublime.
Cross-Platform Support and Portability
VSCode uses an open-source frame, allowing you to install it on any device. To that end, it uses AMD/ARM bases with 32 or 64 bits. On the other hand, Sublime doesn’t use RAM or Raspberry Pi, but it’s very compatible. Hence, you can install it on both Windows and Linux OS.
Which App is More Beginner-Friendly?
Generally, all newcomers can learn how to code with either of these apps. In fact, their systems are very similar to writing in Microsoft Word. Thus, both are excellent choices when trying to master CSS and HTML.
VSCode comes with effective tutorial videos and is also available on all platforms. Hence, it has a slight advantage when talking about students learning to code. However, it also offers perhaps too many features that might confuse you at first.
In comparison, Sublime Text offers a neat search feature to quickly put you back on the correct path. For that, access the command palette and find the file extension.
Which App Is Slower?
Sublime Text is faster to boot and overall takes up less memory space. However, both apps work at a similar pace once you open a file. In fact, Sublime Text might prove lacking if you’re tackling multi-layered complex projects.
VSCode is the more robust option, though it too can falter under its own weight. This is very noticeable if you’re running multiple extensions at once. Therefore, carefully test the two apps before deciding which one to use for your next project.
Conclusion on VSCode vs Sublime Text
The current landscape offers plenty of choices regarding code editors. At the same time, the competition pushes the industry forward, further motivating the developers. As a result, you can choose any of these apps and tailor them to your needs. Plus, both products enjoy live community support, ready to aid new users with any queries.
Ultimately, the choice will depend on the project you got in your sights at the moment. Also, note that both Sublime Text and VSCode are reliable beginner tools. So, consider trying them both to gain a broader view of the coding world in general.
If you enjoyed reading this article on VSCode vs Sublime, you should check out this one about the best IDE for web development or this one with open-source mobile app development software.
We also wrote about a few related subjects like the best IDE for Java, Flutter, C++, Javascript, and for Mac.
And we managed to create comparative articles like Sublime vs Notepad++, and Sublime vs PyCharm.
- The benefits of project management any team member should know - June 9, 2023
- Tech Companies With the Best Employee Benefits - June 9, 2023
- How to Implement an Effective Risk Management Process - June 9, 2023