Comparing Visual Studio and VS Code
Published: 2023-06-16 15:09:09

An Integrated Development Environment or IDE is a software application that provides comprehensive facilities to computer programmers for software development. IDEs comprise a source code editor, automation tools for building, testing and deployment, as well as a debugger.

IDEs are usually tailored for specific programming languages and can be used to develop software for various platforms such as mobile, web, and desktop. The main goal of an IDE is to increase the productivity of developers and provide a convenient platform for developing software.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/uil8p3owrne6ig2ym36r.png)


Visual Studio and Visual Studio Code (VS Code) are two of the most popular Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) used by developers today. Both Visual Studio and VS Code are developed by Microsoft. While Visual Studio is a fully functional integrated development environment designed primarily for Windows operating systems, VS Code is a lightweight and open-source code editor that works on multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Both IDEs have their own unique set of features, advantages, and disadvantages. In this article, we'll compare these IDEs and provide developers with a clear understanding of which IDE is better suited to their needs and preferences. We will look at various aspects, such as ease of use, performance, debugging capabilities, extensibility, and more, to help developers make an informed decision.

## What is a Code Editor?
A code editor, as the name suggests, is a tool that programmers use for writing and editing code. The basic function of a code editor is to provide an environment where developers can write, read, and edit code more easily than they might be able to in a basic text editor.

Code editors often include syntax highlighting, line numbering, and other features that help to make code more readable and navigable. This in turn helps programmers to spot errors and understand the structure of their code more easily. Code editors are designed with a specific purpose: to make the process of writing code as streamlined and efficient as possible.

### Key Differences between a Code Editor and an IDE
The most obvious difference between a code editor and an IDE is the range of features and functionalities that they offer. While a code editor is primarily focused on making it easier to write and edit code, an IDE takes a more holistic approach to software development. This includes not only writing and editing code, but also compiling, debugging, and testing code, managing version control systems, and even deployment to production environments.

While the additional features of an IDE can be extremely useful, they can also be overwhelming, particularly for beginners or for those working on smaller or less complex projects. In contrast, a code editor's simplicity can make it a more approachable option.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/0nbacfgumydanbru2gky.png)


## Visual Studio: Features and Advantages
Visual Studio (VS) is a comprehensive Integrated Development Environment (IDE) developed and maintained by Microsoft. First launched in 1997, Visual Studio has grown over the years to become one of the most widely used and respected IDEs in the world. It is renowned for its extensive features and close integration with other Microsoft technologies. Visual Studio provides a single environment where developers can write, debug, test, and deploy various types of software, from simple web applications to complex enterprise-level solutions.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/309h36jqqwvwshsatkd4.png)

At its core, Visual Studio is a robust and feature-rich IDE. It provides a wide array of functionalities, including code editing, debugging, testing, version control, and application deployment. The IDE is designed to handle everything a developer needs to create, refine, and maintain their codebase, reducing the need for additional tools and making the development process more efficient.

### Native Support for Various Programming Languages
Visual Studio provides native support for a range of programming languages, including C#, VB.NET, C++, JavaScript, TypeScript, and F#. It also supports Python and R for data science applications, and with extensions, many other languages can be supported as well. This versatility makes it a practical choice for multi-language projects or teams.

### Advanced Debugging and Profiling Tools
The advanced debugging tools in Visual Studio can be used to set breakpoints, step through code, monitor and change the values of variables during execution, and examine the call stack. In addition, Visual Studio provides performance profiling tools that help developers diagnose bottlenecks and performance issues in their applications, making it easier to optimize and improve the software.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/6jhcyxci3x4py5bc6ewu.png)

### Built-in Project Management and Collaboration Features
Visual Studio includes built-in project management tools that help keep development projects organized and on track. It supports agile project management practices, including backlog management, sprint planning, and tracking work items. Visual Studio also has collaboration features, including integrated code review tools and the ability to connect to Team Foundation Server or GitHub for source control.

### Integration with Azure and other Microsoft Technologies
Visual Studio is designed to work seamlessly with other Microsoft technologies. It provides robust support for Azure, Microsoft’s cloud computing platform, making it easy to develop, test, and deploy applications to the cloud directly from the IDE. Other integrations include support for SQL Server, a powerful relational database system, and Xamarin, a platform for developing mobile apps for iOS and Android using .NET and C#. 

## VS Code: Features and Advantages
Visual Studio Code, often referred to as VSCode, is a free and open-source code editor developed and maintained by Microsoft. Since its launch in 2015, it has rapidly grown in popularity among developers across the world. The key driving factors for its popularity include the extensive range of features it offers, its lightweight nature, and the flexibility it provides through an extensive system of extensions.

Overall, the interface of VS Code looks much simpler than Visual Studio:

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/35exjz9rbiia2whwhfq5.png)

### Lightweight Nature of VS Code
Unlike traditional Integrated Development Environments (IDEs), which can often be resource-heavy, VSCode is designed to be lightweight and fast. This makes it a suitable choice even for older or less powerful hardware, and it allows developers to quickly open and work on projects without worrying about slow load times or sluggish performance.

### Support for Various Programming Languages
Out of the box, VSCode supports a wide array of programming languages, including (but not limited to) JavaScript, TypeScript, Python, C++, Java, PHP, and many others. Syntax highlighting, automatic formatting, and snippets are available for these and other languages, making the coding process more efficient and less error-prone. In addition, through the use of extensions, VSCode can be adapted to support virtually any programming language, making it a versatile tool for any development task.

### Extensibility and Rich Marketplace
The VSCode Marketplace is home to thousands of extensions, which allow developers to add additional languages, debuggers, tools, themes, and other features to the editor. This ability to customize and extend the functionality of VSCode to meet individual needs and preferences is a major part of its appeal.

### Version Control, Terminal, and Debugger Integration in VS Code
VSCode has integrated version control support, primarily for Git, but also for other version control systems via extensions. This built-in support allows developers to view changes, stage them, commit, pull and push them, view merge conflicts and resolve them right within the editor, without having to switch to a separate tool. 

Additionally, VSCode also features a built-in terminal that can be split and manipulated right within the editor. This makes it easy to run commands, execute scripts, or control versioning without ever leaving the coding environment. In addition, VSCode includes robust debugging tools that allow developers to test their code, set breakpoints, and track variable states without needing a separate debugging tool.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/3j6s6flb4vek0te71xm4.png)


## Comparison between VSCode vs Visual Studio
When it comes to choosing a code editor or an integrated development environment (IDE), developers often find themselves comparing options to determine which one suits their needs best. Here, we will compare VSCode and VS in several key aspects to help you make an informed decision.

### Feature Richness and Depth
When it comes to feature richness and depth, Visual Studio and VSCode differ quite a bit due to their different design philosophies. Visual Studio, being a full-fledged Integrated Development Environment (IDE), offers extensive features out of the box. It has advanced capabilities for debugging, testing, profiling, version control, and even project management, making it a complete toolkit for software development.

VSCode, on the other hand, is a lightweight code editor at its core. Its out-of-the-box features, while powerful, are more limited in comparison to Visual Studio. However, VSCode's true strength lies in its extensibility. With an extensive marketplace of extensions, developers can add almost any functionality they need, allowing them to customize VSCode into a development environment that fits their specific needs.

### Target Audience and Use Cases
Visual Studio and VSCode are designed for slightly different target audiences. Visual Studio, with its extensive features and close integration with Microsoft technologies, is best suited for large-scale, complex software development projects, often in enterprise settings. It's particularly popular among .NET developers and those who heavily use Microsoft's technology stack.

VSCode, with its lightweight design and extensibility, is a great choice for a broader range of developers, from beginners to experts, working on projects of varying scales. Its flexibility and the ability to support virtually any programming language make it an ideal choice for multi-language projects and teams.

### Performance and Resource Requirements

In terms of performance and resource requirements, there is a clear difference between Visual Studio and VSCode. Visual Studio, with its extensive feature set, tends to be more resource-intensive. This can slow down startup times and consume significant system resources, particularly on older or less powerful machines.

On the other hand, VSCode is designed to be lightweight and fast. Even when numerous extensions are installed, it generally remains quicker and less resource-intensive than many full-fledged IDEs, including Visual Studio. This makes it a suitable option for those who value speed and performance, or those working on less powerful hardware.

### Extensibility and Ecosystem Support
Both Visual Studio and VSCode offer strong extensibility and ecosystem support, but in slightly different ways. Visual Studio has a robust set of extensions available, but its close integration with Microsoft's ecosystem is where it truly shines. This makes it particularly beneficial for those who are heavily invested in Microsoft technologies.

VSCode, on the other hand, is widely renowned for its rich ecosystem of extensions. The VSCode Marketplace is home to a vast array of extensions that add new features, support for additional languages, themes, debuggers, and more. This gives VSCode a level of flexibility and adaptability that few other editors can match.

In conclusion, the choice between Visual Studio and VSCode will largely depend on a developer's specific needs and circumstances. Visual Studio, with its comprehensive feature set and deep integration with Microsoft technologies, is an excellent choice for complex, large-scale projects and Microsoft-centric developers. VSCode, on the other hand, with its lightweight design, flexibility, and extensibility, is a fantastic option for a wide range of developers and projects.

## Cloud IDE Alternative for Visual Studio and VS Code
Traditionally, developers have relied on locally installed IDEs or code editors to write, debug, and test their applications. However, the rise of cloud computing and the increasing demand for remote work and collaboration have paved the way for Cloud IDEs. Among the emerging players in the [Cloud IDE](https://www.lightly-dev.com/blog/what-is-a-cloud-ide/) space is Lightly IDE, a dynamic and versatile platform.

### What is a Cloud IDE?
A [Cloud IDE is a web-based development environment](https://www.lightly-dev.com/blog/what-is-cloud-development-environment/) that enables developers to write, edit, and deploy code directly in a web browser, without the need for local installations. By leveraging the power of cloud infrastructure, these platforms provide a flexible and scalable development environment accessible from anywhere with an internet connection.

At the core of Lightly IDE is its cloud-based development environment. Unlike traditional IDEs that are bound to a specific machine, Lightly IDE allows developers to access their coding environment through a web browser on any device. The [online code editor](https://www.lightly-dev.com/blog/online-code-editor-vs-cloud-ide/) and online compiler built-in [Cloud IDEs](https://www.lightly-dev.com/blog/best-cloud-ide-choices/) provides a consistent and customizable workspace that can be easily accessed and shared across teams. This eliminates the need for complex setup processes and ensures developers can jump into coding tasks swiftly, regardless of their location or device.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/vyyhiv8eif3ccb80omzl.png)


### Lightly IDE vs VS Code
Lightly IDE takes advantage of a cloud-based development environment, allowing developers to access their projects from anywhere with an internet connection. Its browser-based interface ensures cross-platform compatibility, enabling seamless coding experiences on various devices and operating systems. VS Code, while primarily a local code editor, offers certain cloud-based functionalities through extensions.

- Collaboration and Teamwork: Lightly IDE emphasizes collaboration and teamwork with real-time editing and live sharing capabilities. Multiple developers can simultaneously work on the same project, enhancing productivity and enabling effective code review. Collaboration features such as live sharing and commenting further streamline teamwork.
- Language and Framework Support: Lightly IDE offers support for a wide range of programming languages and frameworks. It provides language-specific features such as intelligent code completion, syntax highlighting, and code formatting. VS Code boasts a vast ecosystem of extensions that expand its language and framework support. Developers can customize their coding experience by installing extensions tailored to their preferred languages and frameworks. The extensive library of extensions makes VS Code highly adaptable to various development scenarios.
- Integrated Tools and Extensions: Lightly IDE provides essential integrated tools, including code editors, debugging consoles, and testing frameworks, within its cloud-based environment. These tools are designed to enhance productivity and facilitate a seamless coding experience without the need for additional installations. VS Code offers a rich set of built-in features and a vast marketplace of extensions.

### Lightly IDE vs Visual Studio
Lightly IDE prides itself on its lightweight and streamlined environment. It offers a clutter-free interface that enables developers to focus solely on their coding tasks without unnecessary distractions. Lightly IDE's simplicity makes it an excellent choice for quick prototyping, small-scale projects, and developers who prefer a minimalistic coding experience.

Visual Studio, on the other hand, offers a feature-rich and robust environment with extensive tools and functionalities. It provides an all-in-one solution for complex development scenarios, including advanced debugging, profiling, and project management features. Visual Studio's comprehensive nature makes it suitable for large-scale projects, enterprise development, and developers seeking a fully-featured coding environment.

- Collaborative Development Capabilities: Lightly IDE offers real-time editing capabilities, allowing multiple developers to work simultaneously on the same project. Visual Studio also supports collaboration through its built-in collaboration features and version control integrations. While it may not offer the same level of real-time collaboration as Lightly IDE, Visual Studio excels in providing tools for code review, team project management, and seamless integration with popular version control systems.
- Reduced Resource Requirements: Lightly IDE's cloud-based nature significantly reduces resource requirements on the user's machine. Since the coding environment resides in the cloud, developers can access and utilize Lightly IDE's features and resources without placing a heavy burden on their local system. 

Lightly IDE and Visual Studio offer distinct environments and cater to different audiences and use cases. Lightly IDE provides a lightweight and simplified coding experience, with a focus on collaboration, accessibility, and quick development tasks. On the other hand, Visual Studio is a feature-rich IDE designed for complex projects, advanced debugging, and enterprise-level development, while VS Code's strength lies in its extensibility and the vast array of available extensions, allowing developers to tailor the editor to their specific needs.

When choosing between Lightly IDE, Visual Studio and VS Code, developers should con( their priorities, such as the need for a cloud-based environment, collaboration requirements, language and framework support, and the level of customization desired. All three tools offer unique advantages, and the choice ultimately depends on the specific project needs and personal preferences. Whichever option developers choose, they can expect a powerful development experience with the right tools at their disposal.

Read more: [Comparing Visual Studio and VS Code](https://www.lightly-dev.com/blog/vscode-vs-visual-studio/）