23 Best Java Development Tools Of 2025
Best Java Development Tools Shortlist
Here’s my shortlist of the best java development tools:
In my experience, choosing the right tool is about understanding your specific needs and finding a solution that fits. I’ve independently tested and reviewed various tools to provide you with unbiased insights.
In this article, I’ll share my top picks for java development tools. You’ll get a clear look at their features, benefits, and how they can help you tackle everyday challenges. Let's dive into the details and find the best fit for your development needs.
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Best Java Development Tools Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top java development tools selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for intelligent Java IDE features | 90-day free trial + Free plan available under the “community” edition | From $14.90/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 2 | Best for a comprehensive Java development environment | Not available | Open source project and Available for free | Website | |
| 3 | Best for lightweight Java code editing and debugging | Not available | Free to use | Website | |
| 4 | Best for Oracle-based application design | Not available | From $15/user/month | Website | |
| 5 | Best for Java utilities and libraries extension | Not available | Customized price upon request | Website | |
| 6 | Best for enterprise-level Java framework development | Not available | Customized price upon request | Website | |
| 7 | Best for dynamic scripting on the Java platform | Not available | Customized price upon request | Website | |
| 8 | Best for generating Spring Boot and Angular/React projects | Not available | Customized price upon request | Website | |
| 9 | Best for automating software build processes | Not available | Customized price upon request | Website | |
| 10 | Best for in-depth Java performance analysis | Not available | From $12/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
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Best Java Development Tool Reviews
Below are my detailed summaries of the best java development tools that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a detailed look at the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
IntelliJ IDEA is a robust integrated development environment (IDE) specifically tailored for Java development. With its focus on maximizing developer productivity, it incorporates a series of intelligent features that simplify and accelerate the coding process.
Why I Picked IntelliJ IDEA:
When determining the most adept Java IDEs, IntelliJ IDEA was impossible to overlook. Its unique approach to code assistance and its sophisticated set of tools made it stand out distinctly. For its deep intelligence and intuitive code recommendations, I've placed it as best for intelligent Java IDE features.
Standout Features and Integrations:
IntelliJ IDEA offers advanced code completion, inline static analysis, and deep navigation. Furthermore, its built-in tools for database tools, version control, and decompiler enrich the developer experience.
Integration is key with IntelliJ IDEA, making it compatible with numerous frameworks and programming languages beyond Java, such as Kotlin, Groovy, and Scala. It also provides integration with build tools like Maven and Gradle.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Built-in tools for comprehensive development
- Supports a broad array of languages and frameworks
- Highly intelligent coding assistance
Cons:
- Licensing costs can accumulate for larger teams
- Might feel overwhelming for beginners
- Can be resource-intensive on some systems
Apache NetBeans offers a holistic environment for Java developers. It encapsulates everything from coding to debugging to testing, ensuring developers have all they need in one package.
Why I Picked Apache NetBeans:
Deciding on a comprehensive Java IDE required meticulous comparison. Apache NetBeans drew my attention with its intuitive interface, built-in tools, and commitment to providing a one-stop solution for Java development. Its promise of offering a comprehensive environment for Java development stood unrivaled.
Standout Features and Integrations:
Apache NetBeans boasts of powerful code editors, profilers, and debuggers. It also offers templates and coding tips to speed up the development process.
Integration-wise, NetBeans supports Maven and Gradle, among other build tools. Additionally, it connects with databases, application servers, and other tools frequently used in Java development.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Open-source and community-driven
- Active community contributing to its growth
- Extensive set of built-in tools and plugins
Cons:
- The user interface might feel cluttered to some users
- Some plugins might lack updated versions
- Occasionally, performance can be slower than competitors
Visual Studio Code, often known as VS Code, is a versatile code editor with features that go beyond mere editing. While it caters to multiple languages, its extensions make it a solid choice for Java development, offering a lightweight solution for coding and debugging.
Why I Picked Visual Studio Code:
Selecting a lightweight editor that doesn’t compromise on capability led me to Visual Studio Code. I judged its responsiveness, extensibility, and efficient debugging tools as noteworthy. It's precisely its lightweight nature coupled with adept Java debugging tools that position it as best for lightweight Java code editing and debugging.
Standout Features and Integrations:
VS Code shines with features like IntelliSense code completion, Git integration, and a debugging toolkit. Its extensible marketplace allows users to add numerous plugins tailored to their needs.
One of its core strengths lies in its integrations. With Java extensions available, developers can integrate Maven, Tomcat, and even Checkstyle. Furthermore, its compatibility with a wide range of programming languages and Git integration makes it versatile.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Supports a plethora of languages and frameworks
- Highly extensible with a rich marketplace for extensions
- Lightweight and fast performance
Cons:
- Updates can occasionally introduce minor bugs
- Less integrated Java experience compared to dedicated Java IDEs
- Might require multiple extensions for full Java development features
Oracle JDeveloper stands as a comprehensive and integrated development environment from Oracle. Tailored specifically for Oracle solutions, it streamlines the process of designing, developing, debugging, and deploying applications.
Why I Picked Oracle JDeveloper:
Oracle applications demand specialized tools. During my selection phase, Oracle JDeveloper stood out, primarily due to its in-depth integration with Oracle systems. Its dedication to facilitating Oracle-based application design made it a unique and irreplaceable tool on this list.
Standout Features and Integrations:
Oracle JDeveloper offers visual and declarative approaches to application development. It covers every phase of the application lifecycle, with support for UML modeling, code profiling, and debugging.
Being an Oracle product, it offers unparalleled integration with Oracle databases, Oracle WebLogic Server, and other Oracle technologies, ensuring application design and deployment.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Robust support and documentation
- Comprehensive toolset for application lifecycle management
- Deep integration with Oracle technologies
Cons:
- Less versatile for non-Oracle technologies
- Requires a fair amount of resources to run efficiently
- Can be heavy for simple projects
Delving into Java's realms, Guava emerges as a star. It provides a suite of utilities and libraries designed to complement Java's standard offerings.
Why I Picked Guava:
In my quest for the most robust Java tools, Guava consistently stood out. Its vast collection of utilities is unmatched, elevating it to a preferred choice. The value of Guava is evident when Java developers seek to extend the capabilities of their standard libraries, making it the top choice in such scenarios.
Standout Features and Integrations:
Guava excels with its utilities for collections, caching, primitive support, and concurrency. It also provides libraries for string processing, I/O, and hashing.
While Guava doesn't integrate in the traditional sense, its libraries complement and extend many core Java features, acting as an essential companion to the Java SDK.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- This can result in cleaner, more efficient code
- Actively maintained with regular updates
- Comprehensive utilities not found in Java's standard library
Cons:
- Requires diligence to utilize its full potential without redundancy
- Some functions overlap with Java's standard library
- The size of the library might increase the application footprint
Spring is an influential framework that addresses the complexity of enterprise application development. With a focus on flexibility, modular architecture, and productivity, Spring offers tools and extensions for building almost any kind of Java application.
Why I Picked Spring:
In the realm of Java frameworks, choosing Spring was almost intuitive. Through a comparative lens, its comprehensive ecosystem, dedication to reducing boilerplate code, and scalability made it prominent. Its suitability for enterprise-level Java framework development, backed by a vast community, solidified its position on this list.
Standout Features and Integrations:
Spring’s core container enables configuration and bean management. Additionally, the framework provides foundational support for transactions, messaging, and data access.
It integrates efficiently with other enterprise systems, databases, and messaging systems. Java developers also benefit from its compatibility with various ORM frameworks, including Hibernate.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- In-built modularity for better project management
- Large community and extensive documentation
- Rich ecosystem covering many aspects of Java development
Cons:
- Some features might be overkill for small projects
- Configuration can be complex
- The steep learning curve for beginners
In the bustling world of Java, Groovy emerges as a powerful, agile tool. It's designed to enrich the Java platform with scripting capabilities, allowing for a more dynamic coding approach.
Why I Picked Groovy:
Choosing the right tools often involves a mix of judgment and comparison. In my analysis, Groovy consistently rose to the top, distinguishing itself with its nimbleness and adaptability. The rationale behind its selection hinges on its innate ability to meld into the Java ecosystem, offering dynamic scripting that many tools simply can't.
This capability makes it best suited for those who wish to augment their Java projects with an added layer of flexibility.
Standout Features and Integrations:
Groovy shines with its concise syntax, which is easy for Java developers to pick up. It boasts features like closures, builders, and AST transformations that extend the power of Java in significant ways. Additionally, the GroovyShell and GroovyScriptEngine permit rapid application development.
When it comes to integrations, Groovy meshes well with frameworks like Grails, providing a robust web application framework. It also dovetails effectively with Spock for testing and Gradle for build automation.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Compatible with many established Java libraries and frameworks
- Provides a concise and expressive syntax
- Native integration with Java
Cons:
- Lack of specialized IDE tailored for Groovy, though plugins exist for popular IDEs.
- Performance can sometimes be slower than pure Java
- Might require a learning curve for those unfamiliar with scripting
At the crossroads of modern web development, JHipster stands tall. It acts as a scaffolding tool, bringing the power of Spring Boot and front-end technologies like Angular and React together.
Why I Picked JHipster:
My selection process is meticulous, focusing on a tool's unique proposition in the ecosystem. JHipster distinguished itself as a compelling choice because of its comprehensive blueprinting capabilities. These blueprints enable rapid development, making it ideal for generating projects that utilize both Spring Boot and Angular/React. This is why it's unsurpassed when the aim is to combine these specific stacks.
Standout Features and Integrations:
JHipster boasts a rich set of tools, including a built-in development server, a welcome page, and entity generation tools. It further accelerates development with features like hot reload and database versioning.
Integration-wise, JHipster is impressive. It pairs naturally with Spring Cloud for microservice architecture, incorporates Elasticsearch for advanced search capabilities, and facilitates deployment with Docker and Kubernetes.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Modular architecture allowing custom blueprints
- Incorporates best practices by default
- Extensive support for modern web technologies
Cons:
- Default setups may include more than a project requires
- Learning curve if unfamiliar with both Spring Boot and Angular/React
- Might be overkill for smaller projects
Apache Ant, a cornerstone in the software development lifecycle, simplifies and automates the build process. Acting as a driver behind successful project deployments, it streamlines the pathway from code to production.
Why I Picked Apache Ant:
Selecting the right build automation tool was no small feat. However, after considerable comparison and deliberation, Apache Ant's versatility and reliability stood out. Its emphasis on automating software build processes is unmatched, making it the prime choice in this arena.
Standout Features and Integrations:
Apache Ant allows the definition of building tasks in XML, offering flexibility in configuration. It supports conditional builds and can execute tasks in a specific order, ensuring prerequisites are met.
Integration-wise, Ant can work with version control systems like Git and SVN, and it's also known to cooperate well with IDEs, ensuring a streamlined build process.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Platform-independent
- Extensive documentation and community support
- Highly flexible with XML configuration
Cons:
- The learning curve for those new to building automation
- Newer tools offer more out-of-the-box features
- XML-based configuration can be verbose
Performance bottlenecks in Java can be elusive, but jProfiler turns the chase into a precise operation. This tool is a beacon for Java developers, shining a light on performance issues with unparalleled clarity.
Why I Picked jProfiler:
Determining the finest tools in performance analysis, I found jProfiler to be a formidable candidate. My judgment stems from its detailed profiling capabilities, which are unparalleled in the Java space. For those seeking to dive deep into their Java application's performance metrics, jProfiler is undeniably the best.
Standout Features and Integrations:
jProfiler boasts a multitude of profiling views and a versatile heap walker. Its on-demand profiling and integrated thread profiler are particularly commendable.
Integration-wise, jProfiler supports a broad range of application servers and databases. Moreover, it integrates smoothly with popular IDEs and builds tools, ensuring a harmonious workflow.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integrated snapshots for historic data
- Supports both CPU and memory profiling
- Detailed insights into Java application behavior
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve compared to simpler profilers
- Requires setup and configuration for optimal use
- Might be overwhelming for novice users
Other Java Development Tools
Here are some additional java development tools options that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:
- Jenkins
For Java project continuous integration
- SonarQube
For continuous inspection of code quality
- Eclipse
Good for extensive plugin ecosystem
- Mockito
Good for creating and configuring mock objects in Java
- Gradle
Good for building automation and dependency management
- Java VisualVM
Good for monitoring, troubleshooting, and profiling Java applications
- Tomcat
Good for serving Java Servlets and JSP web applications
- Maven
Good for managing project lifecycles and dependencies
- BlueJ
Good for beginners learning Java and object-oriented concepts
- FindBugs
Good for static code analysis in Java applications
- JUnit 5
Good for modern Java testing and assertions
- Java Decompiler
Good for reconstructing Java source code from bytecode
- Jira
Good for agile project management and bug tracking
Java Development Tool Selection Criteria
When selecting the best java development tools to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like code quality and integration capabilities. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
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Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Code editing and refactoring
- Debugging and testing
- Version control integration
- Build automation
- Performance monitoring
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- Real-time collaboration tools
- AI-assisted code suggestions
- Customizable user interface
- Advanced security features
- Integration with cloud services
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive navigation
- User-friendly interface
- Minimal learning curve
- Responsive design
- Customization options
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Access to templates and resources
- Webinars and live sessions
- Chatbot support for quick queries
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- 24/7 support availability
- Multiple contact channels
- Response time and efficiency
- Access to a knowledge base
- Personalized support options
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Competitive pricing
- Features offered at each price tier
- Discounts for long-term subscriptions
- Free trial or demo availability
- Flexibility in pricing plans
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Consistency in positive feedback
- Commonly reported issues
- Quality of customer support
- User satisfaction with features
- Feedback on updates and improvements
How to Choose Java Development Tool
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:
| Factor | What to Consider |
|---|---|
| Scalability | Will the tool support your growth? Think about user limits, project sizes, and long-term needs. Look for tools that grow with your team without huge costs. |
| Integrations | Does it connect with your existing tools? Check compatibility with your current systems like version control, CI/CD pipelines, and databases. |
| Customizability | Can you tailor it to fit your workflow? Look for options that allow you to adjust settings, themes, and workflows to match your team's preferences. |
| Ease of use | Is it intuitive for your team? A steep learning curve can slow down adoption. Opt for tools with simple interfaces and clear documentation. |
| Implementation and onboarding | How quick is setup and training? Consider the time and resources needed to get your team up and running. Look for comprehensive guides and support. |
| Cost | Does it fit your budget? Analyze the total cost of ownership, including hidden fees, and compare with similar tools. |
| Security safeguards | Does it protect your data? Ensure it complies with industry standards and offers features like encryption and access controls. |
What Are Java Development Tools?
Java development tools are software programs that help developers write, test, and build applications using the Java language. They serve as the main workspace where coding, debugging, and project organization take place.
These tools make it easier to turn ideas into working applications, whether for small projects or large systems. They’re used by developers and teams across many industries because Java remains one of the most trusted and widely used programming languages.
Features
When selecting java development tools, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- Code editor: Provides a user-friendly interface for writing and editing code, enhancing productivity and reducing errors.
- Debugging tools: Helps identify and fix errors in the code, ensuring the application runs as intended.
- Version control integration: Allows seamless collaboration and tracking of code changes, facilitating team projects and maintaining code history.
- Build automation: Automates repetitive tasks such as compiling code and packaging applications, saving time and reducing manual errors.
- Code refactoring: Offers the ability to restructure existing code without changing its external behavior, improving code readability and maintainability.
- Syntax highlighting: Enhances code readability by coloring keywords and functions, making it easier to understand and navigate large codebases.
- Real-time collaboration: Enables multiple developers to work on the same codebase simultaneously, improving team efficiency and communication.
- Extensibility: Provides support for plugins and extensions, allowing customization and addition of new functionalities to suit specific project needs.
- Security features: Ensures code is protected against vulnerabilities through built-in security checks and compliance with industry standards.
- Cross-platform support: Allows development across different operating systems, providing flexibility and broad compatibility for diverse environments.
Benefits
Implementing java development tools provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Improved productivity: Automated build processes and code refactoring save time and reduce manual work, allowing your team to focus on more important tasks.
- Enhanced code quality: Debugging tools and code analysis help maintain high-quality code, reducing bugs and improving application performance.
- Better collaboration: Version control integration and real-time collaboration features make it easier for team members to work together and manage code changes efficiently.
- Increased flexibility: Cross-platform support and extensibility enable development across various environments and the addition of new functionalities as needed.
- Streamlined project management: Built-in tools for managing code versions and tracking changes simplify project oversight and ensure consistency across development efforts.
- Security assurance: Security features and compliance checks protect your code from vulnerabilities, safeguarding your applications and data.
- Faster onboarding: Intuitive interfaces and comprehensive onboarding resources make it easier for new team members to get up to speed quickly.
Costs & Pricing
Selecting java development tools requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in java development tools solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for Java Development Tools
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic code editor, syntax highlighting, and limited debugging tools. |
| Personal Plan | $5-$25/user/month | Advanced code editor, basic version control integration, and community support. |
| Business Plan | $25-$50/user/month | Full debugging tools, build automation, and team collaboration features. |
| Enterprise Plan | $50-$100/user/month | Customizable integrations, enhanced security features, and dedicated support. |
Java Development Tools FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about java development tools:
What should I consider when choosing a java development tool?
When choosing a java development tool, consider your team’s specific needs and workflows. Look at factors like scalability, ease of integration with existing systems, and customizability. Assess the tool’s usability and how quickly your team can get up to speed. Ensure it meets your security requirements and fits within your budget. Also, check for community support and regular updates to keep the tool relevant.
Can java development tools be used for other programming languages?
Yes, many java development tools support multiple programming languages. Tools like IntelliJ IDEA and Visual Studio Code offer plugins and extensions for languages like Python, JavaScript, and C++. This flexibility can be beneficial if your team works with various languages or plans to expand its tech stack. Always verify the specific language support a tool offers before committing.
How do I integrate java development tools with my existing systems?
Integrating java development tools with existing systems often involves using plugins or built-in integrations. Start by identifying the systems and tools you currently use, like version control or CI/CD pipelines. Look for java development tools that offer native integrations or support third-party plugins. Follow the documentation provided by the tool to ensure smooth integration, and consider reaching out to support if you encounter any issues.
Are there any security concerns with using java development tools?
Yes, security is an important consideration. Ensure the tool complies with industry standards and offers features like encryption and access controls. Regularly update the tool to protect against vulnerabilities. Consider tools that provide code analysis and security checks to identify potential issues in your code. Always follow best practices for securing your development environment and data.
What’s Next:
If you're in the process of researching java development tools, connect with a SoftwareSelect advisor for free recommendations.
You fill out a form and have a quick chat where they get into the specifics of your needs. Then you'll get a shortlist of software to review. They'll even support you through the entire buying process, including price negotiations.