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IDLE VS PyDev

Compare IDLE VS PyDev and see what are their differences

IDLE logo IDLE

Default IDE which come installed with the Python programming language.

PyDev logo PyDev

PyDev is a third-party plug-in for Eclipse.
  • IDLE Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-07-19
  • PyDev Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-10-11

IDLE features and specs

  • Integrated Development Environment
    IDLE is a simple and lightweight Integrated Development Environment designed specifically for Python. It comes with features like syntax highlighting, auto-completion, and an interactive shell which helps beginners learn programming more efficiently.
  • Cross-Platform
    IDLE is available on multiple operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. This cross-platform support allows programmers to write, debug, and run Python code on different operating systems seamlessly.
  • Bundled with Python
    IDLE comes pre-installed with the standard Python distribution, making it easy for beginners to start coding immediately without needing to install additional software.
  • Interactive Shell
    IDLE provides an interactive shell with syntax highlighting that makes it easier for developers to test small code snippets and see immediate results.
  • Debugger Tools
    IDLE includes basic debugging tools such as breakpoints and stepping to help developers find and fix errors in their code.

Possible disadvantages of IDLE

  • Limited Features
    Compared to more advanced IDEs like PyCharm or VSCode, IDLE has limited features. It lacks advanced functionalities such as sophisticated code refactoring tools, integrated version control, and extensive plug-in support.
  • Performance Issues
    IDLE can become slow and unresponsive with larger projects or extensive use, which can be a hindrance when working on more complex applications.
  • Basic User Interface
    The user interface of IDLE is quite basic and may not be appealing to developers who are accustomed to working with more modern and feature-rich UIs.
  • Limited Customization
    IDLE offers limited options for customization compared to other IDEs. Developers who prefer to tailor their development environment to their preferences might find IDLE restrictive.
  • Not Suitable for Advanced Development
    IDLE is not well-suited for large-scale software development or projects requiring advanced tools and integrations. For professional-grade projects, developers might find IDLE insufficient.

PyDev features and specs

  • Integration with Eclipse
    PyDev is a plugin for Eclipse, allowing developers who are already familiar with Eclipse to easily integrate Python development into their existing workflows.
  • Advanced Debugging
    PyDev provides strong debugging capabilities, including remote debugging, making it easier to identify and fix issues in Python code.
  • Refactoring Tools
    PyDev offers various refactoring tools which help to reorganize and restructure code more efficiently, maintaining code quality and manageability.
  • Linting and Code Analysis
    PyDev includes built-in linting and static code analysis tools to help developers optimize code quality and adherence to coding standards.
  • Auto Completion and Syntax Highlighting
    PyDev provides rich features for auto completion and syntax highlighting, enhancing code readability and productivity.

Possible disadvantages of PyDev

  • Heavy System Resource Usage
    As part of the Eclipse IDE, PyDev may require significant system resources, which can impact performance on less powerful machines.
  • Complex Setup
    The initial setup and configuration of Eclipse and PyDev can be complex and time-consuming, potentially daunting for beginners.
  • Limited Support for Non-Python Languages
    While PyDev is excellent for Python development, its support for other languages is limited, unlike standalone multi-language IDEs.
  • Learning Curve
    For those unfamiliar with Eclipse, there may be a steep learning curve associated with using PyDev, as it entails understanding both Eclipse and its plugin dynamics.
  • Frequency of Updates
    The frequency and speed of updates to PyDev might lag behind standalone Python IDEs, potentially limiting access to the latest Python features.

IDLE videos

Why Is This Idle Game SO FUN? | Good Cheap Games: Idle Champions

More videos:

  • Review - IDLE Mattress Reviews (#1 Consumer Guide)
  • Review - Daily Grind Review 2019 : Idle Heroes

PyDev videos

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Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to IDLE and PyDev)
Text Editors
68 68%
32% 32
IDE
73 73%
27% 27
Python IDE
78 78%
22% 22
Development
53 53%
47% 47

User comments

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What are some alternatives?

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