IntelliJ IDEA Overview
IntelliJ IDEA, developed by JetBrains, is a powerful integrated development environment (IDE) known for its robust features and comprehensive support for various programming languages. It operates as a standalone application and is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux. With its extensive support for large language models (LLMs) such as GPT-5, Gemini 2.0, Llama 4, Mistral Enterprise, and JetBrains’ own custom models, IntelliJ IDEA offers a versatile coding experience. It features a 200k token context window and supports local inference, allowing developers to work efficiently on large projects. The tool also provides multi-file agentic editing and full terminal access, enhancing productivity. IntelliJ IDEA offers both free and professional tiers, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
Pros
- ✓ Supports multiple operating systems: Windows, macOS, Linux.
- ✓ Compatible with a wide range of LLMs, including custom JetBrains models.
- ✓ Offers local inference for enhanced performance.
- ✓ Provides full terminal access and multi-file agentic editing.
- ✓ Available in both free and professional tiers.
Cons
- ✕ Requires initial setup for migration.
- ✕ Pricing for the professional version may vary.
VS Code Overview
Visual Studio Code, developed by Microsoft, is a highly popular code editor known for its flexibility and extensive ecosystem of extensions. It operates as a standalone application and is available on Windows, macOS, and Linux platforms. VS Code supports several LLMs, including GPT-5, Claude 4.5, and Gemini 3.0, providing a rich environment for developers. With a 200k token context window and local inference capabilities, it facilitates efficient coding workflows. VS Code also supports multi-file agentic editing and offers full terminal access, making it a versatile tool for developers. The pricing model is flexible, ranging from free to a subscription model, allowing users to choose based on their needs.
Pros
- ✓ Widely compatible with various operating systems.
- ✓ Supports popular LLMs for a versatile coding experience.
- ✓ Facilitates seamless migration.
- ✓ Offers full terminal access and multi-file agentic editing.
- ✓ Flexible pricing model with a free tier available.
Cons
- ✕ Limited to standard privacy policy.
- ✕ May require additional extensions for full functionality.
Comparison Table
| Feature | IntelliJ IDEA | VS Code |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture Type | standalone | standalone |
| Supported Os | Windows, macOS, Linux | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Developer | JetBrains | Microsoft |
| Supported Llms | GPT-5, Gemini 2.0, Llama 4, Mistral Enterprise, JetBrains SLMs | GPT-5, Claude 4.5, Gemini 3.0 |
| Custom Model | JetBrains SLMs | – |
| Context Window | 200k tokens | 200k tokens |
| Agentic Editing | Yes, multi-file | Yes, multi-file |
| Terminal Access | Full | Full |
| Privacy Mode | Standard Privacy Policy | Standard Privacy Policy |
| Certifications | SOC2 Type II (Enterprise) | SOC2 Type II (Enterprise) |
| About Price | Free/Pro | $0 – $20/mo |
| Config File | .intellij-ai-config | .vscode/ai.json |
| Migration | Requires setup | Seamless |
Conclusion
Both IntelliJ IDEA and VS Code offer robust features for developers, catering to different needs and preferences. IntelliJ IDEA is ideal for those who require extensive LLM support and custom model integration, while VS Code excels in flexibility and ease of use with its seamless migration capabilities. Choosing between them depends on specific project requirements and personal preferences.