5 Most Popular Cross-Platform Code Editors

If you are a developer, you have likely already chosen a platform. You might have settled on Linux, macOS, or Windows as the operating system for your software development career. But that doesn't mean it will be the only platform you use. Or the operating system you chose for your personal projects might differ from the one your work provides. Or you might collaborate with other developers and need to work with similar tools. Fortunately, there is such a thing as cross-platform compatibility, meaning an application is not limited to a single operating system. This was not always common. But today, for serious success, an application almost has to be cross-platform. And no group of users understands this better than developers. Consequently, many popular tools are available for all operating systems. This applies to code editors as well. Some of the most common editors on the planet are cross-platform.

In short, a cross-platform editor helps developers work across different operating systems without having to switch from one editor to another. This streamlines the workflow, making it more efficient, saves developers time, and strengthens collaboration. Let's look at some of the most popular cross-platform code editors that you can install on all your systems.

1. Visual Studio Code

Visual Studio Code from Microsoft is usually at the top of any code editor list. And for good reason. VS Code includes all the necessary features (such as debugging, syntax highlighting, built-in Git control, code refactoring), plus some you might not have even known about but have come to rely on over time. One such feature is IntelliSense, which provides intelligent code completion based on variable types, function definitions, and imported modules. VS Code supports Python, C/C++, C#, Java (via extension pack), Go, Dart, PHP (via extension pack), HTML, JSON, Julia, Less, Markdown, PowerShell, SCSS, T-SQL, and TypeScript. If you don't see your language in the list, you can always check the VS Code Marketplace to see if an extension is available. Beyond its extensive capabilities, VS Code boasts one of the best user interfaces. It is not only well-designed but also easy to use. And to make this editor even more appealing, it is free.

2. ATOM

Atom is another free, open-source cross-platform code editor. Before being released to the public, Atom served as GitHub's internal editor. However, in 2014, the company decided to release the tool to the public, and it was warmly received worldwide. Atom has an excellent user interface that allows developers to split the view into separate panes for easier diff work. Other features include a built-in package manager, intelligent autocomplete, file system browsing, search and replace, Git and GitHub integration, add-ons and themes, and multiple settings to make Atom your own. Atom is a great editor for both newcomers to software development and experienced developers. And with an extensive library of available settings, you can make Atom do what you need in the way you want. Atom also supports many popular languages and frameworks, such as Node.js, CSS, and JS (learn about the most common uses of JavaScript).

3. Sublime Text

Sublime Text is another highly customizable code editor that can be used on most platforms. Unlike VS Code and Atom, Sublime Text has a cost. A single-user license for Sublime Text costs $99. However, many consider Sublime one of the best in the field. Additionally, it is somewhat more complex than other options. This makes Sublime one of the most feature-rich editors. Split screen, simultaneous editing, 'Goto Anything' file navigation, adaptive matching for quick keyboard command invocation, GPU rendering, Apple Silicon support, multi-tab selection, context-aware autocomplete, TypeScript and TSX support, updated Python API, super-powered syntax highlighting/definitions, autosave, spell check, macros, and support for many programming languages (AppleScript, C, C++, CSS, Diff, Erlang, Go, Groovy, HTML, Java, JavaScript, and Lisp).

4. UltraEdit

UltraEdit is another cross-platform code editor that requires purchasing a license. You can purchase an annual license for $99.95 or a perpetual license for $119.95. UltraEdit is another highly customizable editor, featuring an extensive theme library and even allowing you to create your own. Key features include column mode (for editing along the Y axis anywhere in the document), multi-selection, integrated FTP and SSH support, 4K UHD support, one of the fastest search functions on the market, fully integrated file comparison, OS integration, excellent handling of large files (10+ GB and more), hex editing, XML and JSON support, syntax highlighting for virtually any language, layouts, smart templates, function listing, macros and script support, and a full set of HTML tools.

5. Brackets

Brackets was specifically designed for web developers and front-end developers. So if your work primarily involves front-end development (HTML, CSS, and JavaScript), this editor might be ideal for you. Brackets can be split into vertical and horizontal panes, and includes an inline editing feature that lets you view all selectors belonging to a specific ID. For example, you can select a particular CSS ID and open an inline editor to view only the selectors belonging to that ID. Brackets also includes features such as preprocessor support, browser synchronization (via Live Preview), a huge number of extensions, JSLint, LESS support, and Quick Edit. Just keep in mind that this editor is not for back-end development.

Conclusion

If you have a need, there is a cross-platform code editor for it. Any of the editors listed above will be a great tool for you. Just make sure the editor you choose is well-suited for the tasks at hand. Fortunately, it doesn't matter which operating system you use, as these editors will install and work flawlessly on your chosen platform.