Best Golang IDEs and Code Editors
Are you searching for the right tool to improve your Go programming experience? The right Integrated Development Environment (IDE) or code editor can give you a good experience in your coding process.
But, with so many options available, which IDE is best for Golang?
This guide will help you choose the best Golang IDE for Windows and the best Golang IDE for Mac and help you decide which one might be the ideal match for your development journey.
11 Best Golang IDEs and Code Editors – Overview
Here’s an overview of the 11 best Go Language IDEs and Code Editors:
| S.No. | IDE Name | License Type | Platform Compatibility | Version Control Integration | Download Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Visual Studio Code | Free | Windows, macOS, Linux | Yes | Download |
| 2 | GoLand | Paid | Windows, macOS, Linux | Yes | Download |
| 3 | Eclipse with GoEclipse | Free | Windows, macOS, Linux | Yes | Download |
| 4 | IntelliJ IDEA | Free/Paid | Windows, macOS, Linux | Yes | Download |
| 5 | Komodo | Paid | Windows, macOS, Linux | Yes | Download |
| 6 | Vim | Free | Windows, macOS, Linux, UNIX | Yes | Download |
| 7 | Atom | Free | Windows, macOS, Linux | Yes | Download |
| 8 | Sublime Text with Go Sublime | Paid | Windows, macOS, Linux | Yes | Download |
| 9 | Replit | Free/Paid | Windows, macOS, Linux | Yes | Download |
| 10 | Zeus IDE | Paid | Windows | Yes | Download |
| 11 | Lite IDE | Free/Open-Source | Windows, macOS, Linux | Yes | Download |
Top 11 Golang IDEs for Developers
Below are the top 11 best free Golang IDEs for developers:
1. Visual Studio Code
Visual Studio Code is the best IDE for Golang. It is a powerful and versatile code editor designed for developers of all skill levels.
It offers an intuitive interface and a wealth of features to support students and new programmers, including educational extensions and integrated tutorials.
License Type: Free/Open-Source
Supported Programming Languages:
- JavaScript
- Python
- C++
- Go
- Java
- And many more
Platform Compatibility:
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
User Interface and Experience:
- Clean, user-friendly interface
- Highly responsive performance
Customization Options:
- Extensive theme and icon customization
- Configurable keyboard shortcuts
- Editable user and workspace settings
Syntax Highlighting and Visualization:
- Automatic syntax highlighting for numerous languages
- Customizable color schemes
Code Autocompletion: Yes
Integrated Debugging Tools:
- Inline breakpoints
- Conditional debugging
- Call stack navigation
Version Control Integration: Yes
Community and Support:
- Extensive documentation and FAQs
- Active community forums
2. GoLand
GoLand is a specialized IDE from JetBrains tailored specifically for Go developers.
It enhances productivity with features such as on-the-fly error detection and clever completion routines, all within an environment designed to make Go development seamless and efficient.
License Type: Paid
Supported Programming Languages:
- Go primarily
- JavaScript
- TypeScript (via plugins)
- SQL
Platform Compatibility:
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
User Interface and Experience:
- Intuitive, Go-centric workflow
- Smooth integration with other JetBrains tools
Customization Options:
- Adjustable UI themes and fonts
- Plugin architecture to extend functionality
- Customizable keymaps and tools
Syntax Highlighting and Visualization:
- Smart syntax highlighting for Go and other languages
- Structure view to navigate files and code blocks
Code Autocompletion: Yes
Integrated Debugging Tools:
- Comprehensive debugger with goroutine support
- Memory and CPU profiler
- Convenient database tools
Version Control Integration: Yes
Community and Support:
- Detailed documentation and learning resources
- Responsive support and active community discussions
3. Eclipse with GoEclipse
Eclipse is a widely-used, open-source Integrated Development Environment (IDE) known for its robust, extensible nature.
When equipped with the GoEclipse plugin, it becomes a capable environment for developing Go applications, offering essential tools and features to facilitate coding, testing, and debugging in Go.
License Type: Free/Open-Source
Supported Programming Languages:
- Java
- C/C++
- Python (via plugins)
- Go (with GoEclipse plugin)
- And many other languages through additional plugins
Platform Compatibility:
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
User Interface and Experience:
- Highly customizable interface
- Seamless integration with various development tools
Customization Options:
- Wide range of plugins for enhanced functionality
- Extensive preferences for personalizing the development experience
Syntax Highlighting and Visualization:
- Customizable syntax highlighting for Go and other languages
- Visual representation of code and its dependencies
Code Autocompletion: Yes
Integrated Debugging Tools:
- Integrated debugger supports Go with appropriate configurations
- Performance analysis tools
- Error and log viewing capabilities
Version Control Integration: Yes
Community and Support:
- Large, active user community
- Extensive documentation and support forums
4. IntelliJ IDEA
IntelliJ IDEA is a comprehensive IDE developed by JetBrains, designed to maximize developer productivity.
It supports Go through the use of plugins, making it a versatile choice for developers working in mixed-language environments.
License Type: Free (Community Edition), Paid (Ultimate Edition)
Supported Programming Languages:
- Java
- Kotlin
- Scala
- Go (via plugins)
- Groovy
- And many more via plugins
Platform Compatibility:
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
User Interface and Experience:
- Sleek, responsive user interface
- Context-aware UX that boosts productivity
Customization Options:
- Extensive theme customization, including a dedicated marketplace for plugins and themes
- Configurable editor layout and customizable shortcuts
- Ability to create and share custom IDE settings
Syntax Highlighting and Visualization:
- Advanced syntax highlighting for multiple languages
- Code inspection and suggestions for improvements
Code Autocompletion: Yes
Integrated Debugging Tools:
- Powerful integrated debugger with smart step-through
- Inline variable view and expression evaluation
- Support for multiple build systems and version control tools
Version Control Integration: Yes
Community and Support:
- Wide community and professional support
- Rich documentation and educational resources
5. Komodo
Komodo IDE, developed by ActiveState, is an integrated development environment designed for professional developers working with dynamic and static languages.
It supports a broad spectrum of programming languages and emphasizes web development with powerful tools such as live previews and interactive shells.
License Type: Paid
Supported Programming Languages:
- Python
- Perl
- PHP
- Ruby
- JavaScript
- Tcl
- Go (via extensions or custom configurations)
- And more
Platform Compatibility:
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
User Interface and Experience:
- Customizable interface with split view and multi-window editing
- Streamlined access to project files and assets
Customization Options:
- Extensive theming options for personalized coding environments
- Fully customizable key bindings and macros
- Add-ons and plugins for extending functionality
Syntax Highlighting and Visualization:
- Auto-detection and syntax highlighting for over 100 languages
- Visual debugging aids to improve code navigation and error spotting
Code Autocompletion: Yes
Integrated Debugging Tools:
- Multi-language debugging support
- Interactive shells for real-time code testing
- Remote debugging capabilities
Version Control Integration: Yes
Community and Support:
- Active community forums and user groups
- Comprehensive documentation and technical support
6. Vim
Vim is a highly configurable text editor built to enable efficient text editing. It’s known for its power and versatility, making it a favorite among developers, especially those who value speed and efficiency.
For students, Vim offers a lightweight, distraction-free environment ideal for learning programming fundamentals and advanced features alike.
License Type: Free/Open-Source
Supported Programming Languages:
- C
- Python
- JavaScript
- Go
- Java
Platform Compatibility:
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
- UNIX
User Interface and Experience:
- Keyboard-centric interface with minimal reliance on the mouse
- Steep learning curve but highly efficient once mastered
Customization Options:
- Extensive plugin ecosystem
- Fully customizable via vimrc configuration file
- Key mappings can be entirely user-defined
Syntax Highlighting and Visualization:
- Syntax highlighting for hundreds of programming languages
- Customizable color schemes
Code Autocompletion: Yes
Integrated Debugging Tools:
- Integrates with gdb for debugging
- Supports plugins for language-specific debugging
- Conditional breakpoints can be managed with additional plugins
Version Control Integration: Yes
Community and Support:
- Active and supportive user community
- Extensive online resources and documentation
7. Atom
Atom, developed by GitHub, is a modern, approachable, and hackable text editor that’s fully customizable but also easy to use right out of the box.
It’s particularly beneficial for students as it offers an open-source platform that supports collaboration and real-time code editing with peers.
License Type: Free/Open-Source
Supported Programming Languages:
- JavaScript
- HTML
- CSS
- Python
- Java
- C++
- Go
- And many others via community-packages
Platform Compatibility:
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
User Interface and Experience:
- Clean, user-friendly interface with a modern look
- Supports split panes for editing multiple files side by side
Customization Options:
- Thousands of open-source packages for enhanced functionality
- Customizable themes for UI and syntax
- Editable key bindings and user interface directly from the UI
Syntax Highlighting and Visualization:
- Robust syntax highlighting for a wide range of programming languages
- Supports folding and tree view to navigate code easily
Code Autocompletion: Yes
Integrated Debugging Tools:
- Support for debugging tools through packages
- Integration with build systems and compilers via external packages
- Real-time feedback and linting with packages
Version Control Integration: Yes (built-in support for Git and GitHub)
Community and Support:
- Strong community-driven development and support
- Extensive documentation and forums
8. Sublime Text with Go Sublime
Sublime Text is a versatile and fast text editor known for its speed and minimalistic interface, making it a favorite among developers for multiple programming languages.
With the GoSublime plugin, it becomes a powerful environment for Go development, offering tools tailored to streamline coding, debugging, and testing in Go.
License Type: Paid
Supported Programming Languages:
- Go (with GoSublime plugin)
- JavaScript
- Python
- HTML
- CSS
- Java
- C++
- and more
Platform Compatibility:
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
User Interface and Experience:
- Highly efficient, lightweight design
- Multiple tabs and split editing to manage various projects simultaneously
Customization Options:
- Extensive color schemes and themes available
- User-defined snippets, macros, and key bindings
- Plugin architecture for extending functionality
Syntax Highlighting and Visualization:
- Powerful syntax highlighting customizable for various programming languages
- “Goto Anything” feature for quick navigation and visualization of code components
Code Autocompletion: Yes (enhanced by GoSublime)
Integrated Debugging Tools:
- Integrates with external debugging tools via plugins
- Inline error messages and build systems
- Quick edit and preview capabilities
Version Control Integration: Yes (through plugins)
Community and Support:
- Large, active community
- Extensive plugin ecosystem supported by users and third-party developers
9. Replit
Replit is an online IDE that provides a collaborative and instant coding environment for various programming languages directly in your browser.
It’s especially useful for students and educators because it supports real-time collaboration and comes with built-in features for classroom management and peer programming.
License Type: Free (basic features), Paid (additional features)
Supported Programming Languages:
- Python
- JavaScript (Node.js)
- HTML/CSS
- Java
- C++
- Go
- And many more
Platform Compatibility:
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
User Interface and Experience:
- Clean, intuitive web-based interface
- Easy to start and share projects with a single click
Customization Options:
- Light and dark mode settings
- Configurable editor settings like key bindings and themes
- Ability to add custom run commands and environment variables
Syntax Highlighting and Visualization:
- Automatic syntax highlighting for all supported languages
- Code folding and customizable indent guides
Code Autocompletion: Yes
Integrated Debugging Tools:
- Built-in debugger for several languages
- Console for real-time output and error logs
- Network inspection and performance analysis tools
Version Control Integration: Yes (Git integration available)
Community and Support:
- Vibrant community forums and FAQs
- Regular updates and active developer support
10. Zeus IDE
Zeus IDE is known for its fast, fully scriptable environment which supports a wide array of programming tasks and languages, including Go through customization.
It’s particularly beneficial for developers looking for a highly customizable and efficient coding tool with a focus on keyboard shortcuts and quick editing features.
License Type: Paid
Supported Programming Languages:
- C/C++
- Python
- Go (with configurations)
- Java
- PHP
- Perl
- And many others through user-defined configurations
Platform Compatibility:
- Windows
User Interface and Experience:
- Highly configurable interface optimized for speed and efficiency
- Keyboard-centric design with extensive shortcut support
Customization Options:
- Extensive scripting capabilities using Lua or Python
- Fully customizable keyboard mappings and templates
- User-defined toolbars and menus for tailored workflow
Syntax Highlighting and Visualization:
- Advanced syntax highlighting for multiple languages
- Code folding and structured project view
Code Autocompletion: Yes
Integrated Debugging Tools:
- Seamless integration with external compilers and debuggers
- Build systems for multiple languages
- Error checking and inline warnings
Version Control Integration: Yes (supports Git, SVN, and other major version control systems through plugins)
Community and Support:
- Active user forum for support and sharing scripts
- Regular updates and enhancements from the developer
11. Lite IDE
LiteIDE is a simple, open-source IDE specifically designed for Go (Golang) development. It’s lightweight and easy to use, offering all the essential tools Go developers need, from code editing to debugging, all in one platform.
Its focus on simplicity and efficiency makes it an excellent choice for students and professionals alike.
License Type: Free/Open-Source
- Supported Programming Languages:
- Go (primary support)
- Basic support for other languages through plugins
Platform Compatibility:
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
User Interface and Experience:
- Simple, clean UI with Go-focused workflow
- Minimalistic design with easy access to Go-specific features
Customization Options:
- Configurable syntax highlighting
- Basic theming options for the editor
- Go module support configuration
Syntax Highlighting and Visualization:
- Automatic syntax highlighting for Go
- Basic file structure view
Code Autocompletion: Yes
Integrated Debugging Tools:
- Integrated gdb support for Go
- Simple debugging with breakpoint management
- Version Control Integration: Yes (supports Git, SVN, and Mercurial)
Community and Support:
- Active user community with forums and GitHub issues
- Good documentation and developer support
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are some of the best free Golang IDEs and code editors available?
Some popular free Golang IDEs that provide robust features for Golang development are:
- Visual Studio Code
- Atom
- LiteIDE
2. What is the key difference between Golang IDE and Code Editor?
The key difference is that a Golang IDE provides comprehensive facilities to computer programmers for software development, including debugging and build automation, whereas a code editor is a simpler tool for writing and editing code, often with syntax highlighting and limited integration features.
3. What are the key features to look for in the best Golang IDEs and code editors?
Key features to look for in the best Golang IDEs and code editors are syntax highlighting, code completion, debugging tools, efficient project management, and integration with version control systems.
4. Can you recommend Golang IDEs that are best for beginners?
Visual Studio Code and Atom are best for beginners due to their simplicity, extensive documentation, and supportive community.
5. Which Golang IDEs have strong community support and reliable customer service?
JetBrains’ GoLand and Visual Studio Code have strong community support and responsive customer service.
6. What tools are available in Golang IDEs for debugging code?
Tools available in Golang IDEs for debugging code include breakpoints, stack traces, and real-time variable inspection.
7. What Golang IDEs have the best integration with version control systems like Git?
GoLand and Visual Studio Code Golang IDEs have the best integration with version control systems like Git.
Wrapping Up
Selecting the right Golang IDE or code editor is much needed for enhancing your productivity and simplifying your development process. Remember, the best Golang IDE or editor fits your specific workflow and helps you to write cleaner code.
So, take the time to explore these options, consider what features are most important to you, and choose a tool that will help you in learning Go programming.
Explore More Golang Resources
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Thirumoorthy serves as a teacher and coach. He obtained a 99 percentile on the CAT. He cleared numerous IT jobs and public sector job interviews, but he still decided to pursue a career in education. He desires to elevate the underprivileged sections of society through education
Thirumoorthy serves as a teacher and coach. He obtained a 99 percentile on the CAT. He cleared numerous IT jobs and public sector job interviews, but he still decided to pursue a career in education. He desires to elevate the underprivileged sections of society through education
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