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Visual Studio Code for Windows

  • Free

  • In English
  • V 1.78.2
  • 4.2

    (576)
  • Security Status

Softonic review

Cathy Buggs
Cathy BuggsUpdated 9 months ago

A free code editor for Windows

Visual Studio Code is a powerful and free code editor that you can download on your Windows (11, 10, 8, 7) computer. Created by Microsoft, the application lets users code in any programming language without switching tabs or editors. It provides developers with a single tool that lets them code, build, and debug quickly and efficiently. 

As a cross-platform application, VS Code works well on Windows, Linux, and Mac OS computers. While not suitable for complex workflows, Visual Studio Code download does provide users with a range of features that make coding and debugging quite effortless. As compared with alternatives like Notepad++, Bootstrap, and Sublime Text, VS Code stands out as a great option for beginners and experienced coders. 

What is Visual Studio Code used for? 

Once you complete the Visual Studio Code download, you can use the software to quickly code, debug, and build apps. With its help, you can program in any language without switching the editor, debug while you’re writing code, call stacks, and launch apps. Since the software also offers extension support, you can easily expand its capabilities when coding. 

In addition to this, VS Code goes beyond highlighting syntax by autocompleting code using function definitions, variable types, and imported modules. It also makes working with SCM providers a lot easier than before. As soon as you get familiar with the software, you can easily stage files, make commits, and review diffs directly from the editor. 

What are the features of Visual Studio Code?

One of the best things about downloading Visual Studio Code is that it gives you access to a powerful code editor that is suitable for all types of coding requirements. It has a feature-rich interface that highlights syntax and completes code automatically. It also provides navigation, customizable bindings, auto-indentation, snippets, and bracket matching. 

With support for almost all programming languages, including Python, Java, and C++, Visual Code Studio download for Windows is suitable for developers just starting out in the world of coding and debugging. It lets users easily change the theme, add new languages, update debuggers, and increase capabilities via several extensions. 

Furthermore, the coding editor features a built-in IntelliSense function that offers a better understanding of code and also helps in automatically completing code accurately. The function is always on and provides code refracting and debugging. It also provides support for Node.js development, JavaScript, and ASP.NET. 

Visual Studio Code provides several tools for different web technologies, including SASS, JSON, CSS, LESS, and HTMS. It also integrates easily with repositories, builds, and package managers. All of these features make everyday workflow fast and efficient. Since the application also understands Git, it makes editing easier for beginners

Is Visual Studio Code an IDE?

VS Code is a part of Microsoft Visual Studio and is quite close to an IDE for several languages. With its help, you can write complex code, test tools, and build complex web applications. Although Visual Studio Code is available for free, it also has a premium plan that provides developers with advanced testing and development tools. You also have training and support, as well as access to Microsoft Azure.

What’s the difference between Visual Studio and Visual Studio Code?

Visual Code Studio vs Visual Studio is a debate worth having, mostly because both programs provide several unique features to developers. While the former stands very close to being called a fully integrated IDE, the latter features a test-driven environment. VS offers better refactoring support, but VS Code offers basic refactoring for several languages. Apart from these two features, there are several more differences between VS and VS Code, and choosing either one is often based on personal preference.

Is Visual Studio Code good for beginners?

Considering that Visual Studio Code offers a streamlined code editor with support for many programming languages - it is highly suitable for beginners. It helps developers quickly create code, build apps, and complete debugging cycles. 

Should I download Visual Studio Code?

If you’re looking for a flexible, free, and easy-to-use code editor, download Visual Studio Code. Designed by Microsoft, the software offers cross-platform support and comes with a built-in code completion tool. It highlights syntax, lets users code and debug, complete various projects, and preview applications. Furthermore, the program lets users code in any language they want without switching the editor or tab. 

Enhance Your Workflow with Visual Studio Code 1.78: Explore New Profile Templates and Themes

Built-in Profile Templates for Popular Programming Languages

The latest Visual Studio Code 1.78 release introduces built-in profile templates for Python, Java, data science, Node.js, and Angular. These curated profiles enable developers to personalize their VS Code experience for specific workflows, streamlining the development process.

Fresh Default Color Themes: Dark Modern and Light Modern

Visual Studio Code 1.78 also brings new default color themes to the table. Dark Modern and Light Modern replace the previous Dark+ and Light+ themes, offering a refreshing visual experience to users.

Improved Diff Algorithm and Deprecated Old Version

The update includes a new diff algorithm that provides better diffs in most cases but may be slower for some documents. While the old algorithm remains the default for now, plans are in place to transition to the new algorithm as the default while monitoring its performance.

Enhanced JavaScript Support in HTML Blocks

With the js/ts.implicitProjectConfig.strictNullChecks setting, developers can enable strict nulls for JavaScript within HTML blocks, improving code safety and reliability.

Introducing the Standalone Color Picker

Users now have the ability to launch a standalone color picker to insert and replace colors in their code effortlessly.

Individual Test Continuous Run Feature

Continuous Run can now be activated for individual tests, providing developers with greater flexibility and control over their testing process.

Drag-and-Drop Functionality for Videos and Images in Markdown Files

Visual Studio Code 1.78 allows developers to drag and drop videos into Markdown files and image files into Markdown cells of notebooks, streamlining the process of creating attachments.

TypeScript 5.1 Support

This release supports TypeScript 5.1, currently in beta, paving the way for developers to explore the latest TypeScript features.

Refined Inline Completion Feature

The inline completion feature has been revamped, fixing bugs and adding an Accept Line command. Accept Word now functions across lines, enhancing the usability of this feature.

Code Actions and Quick Fixes in Source Control Message Box

Developers can now access Code Actions and Quick Fixes directly in the Source Control message box, making it easier to address issues and make changes.

New Snippet Variable: CURRENT_TIMEZONE_OFFSET

The latest snippet variable, CURRENT_TIMEZONE_OFFSET, returns the current timezone offset in either the +HHMM or -HHMM format.

Improved Accessibility for Screen Reader Users

Screen reader users can now exclude hints from a feature's aria-label to reduce redundancy through the "accessibility.verbosity.diff-editor" and "accessibility.verbosity.terminal" settings. Additionally, new audio cues have been implemented for a more user-friendly experience.

VS Code for the Web Supports Git Large File Storage (LFS)

Finally, Visual Studio Code for the Web now supports committing files to Git Large File Storage (LFS) in repositories hosted on GitHub, expanding its capabilities for web-based development.

PROS

  • Free to download and use
  • Lets users code in any language
  • Suitable for coding and debugging
  • Offers cross-platform support
  • Fit for beginner developers

CONS

  • Not suitable for complex workflows

Also available in other platforms

Program available in other languages


Visual Studio Code for PC

  • Free

  • In English
  • V 1.78.2
  • 4.2

    (576)
  • Security Status


User reviews about Visual Studio Code

  • Igwe Emmanuel

    by Igwe Emmanuel

    Yes! It is cool and nice to use with lots of handy features for professional projects. I love it. It is truly a warehouse of professional coding resou More

  • jacob ishola

    by jacob ishola

    yes. easy to use and easy to understand for a new user. Though, it can be improved upon. However, so far so good


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Laws concerning the use of this software vary from country to country. We do not encourage or condone the use of this program if it is in violation of these laws.