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CLion

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Company health

Employee growth
10% increase in the last year
Web traffic
3% decrease in the last quarter

Ratings

G2
4.4/5
(55)
Glassdoor
4.3/5
(251)

CLion description

CLion is a software development tool (IDE) designed specifically for programming with the C and C++ languages. It helps developers write, analyze, and fix code efficiently with features like code completion and error detection. CLion integrates with other tools used in C/C++ development, making the entire coding process smoother and more productive.


Who is CLion best for

We find that CLion is ideal for C/C++ developers, from students to pros, in need of robust coding assistance. Users appreciate its smart code completion, strong refactoring tools, and seamless Git integration. Keep in mind that some users report performance issues with larger projects and occasional debugging inconsistencies, so it's best to check it out yourself!

  • Great for mid-sized to large companies needing a robust C/C++ IDE with advanced features and cross-platform support.

  • We find that CLion is a strong choice for the Software, IT, and Telecommunications industries due to its comprehensive toolset.


CLion features

Supported

Easy Project Setup: CLion makes it easy to start new projects and add files with a single click. It supports various project models, including CMake, Makefile, Gradle, and compilation databases.

Supported

Smart Editor: The smart editor in CLion analyzes code context and project structure to enhance coding speed. Features such as smart completion, formatting, and code insight views aid in efficient development.

Supported

Navigation & Search: CLion simplifies code navigation with instant jumps to symbols, classes, and files. Features include call/type hierarchy inspection and comprehensive search capabilities, encompassing IDE settings.

Supported

Code Analysis: CLion offers robust code analysis capabilities. This helps maintain code quality by catching potential issues and facilitating improvements through suggested fixes.

Supported

Refactoring & Code Generation: CLion supports various code refactorings like renaming symbols, changing method signatures, and extracting functions, variables, or parameters. It also includes code generation capabilities to simplify common coding tasks.

Supported

Editor Customization: CLion offers extensive customization options for the editor, including themes, keyboard shortcuts, and code styles. This ensures a comfortable and productive environment for users with varying preferences.

Supported

Integrated Debugger: Integrated debugging tools are provided, including stepping through code, evaluating expressions, viewing variables, and attaching to local processes or remote machines. It supports GDB and LLDB debuggers.

Supported

Remote Development: CLion supports remote development workflows via SSH. This allows developing, running, and debugging code on remote machines or in Docker containers without leaving the IDE.


CLion reviews

We've summarised 55 CLion reviews (CLion G2 reviews) and summarised the main points below.

Pros of CLion
  • Excellent code completion and IntelliSense for C/C++.
  • User-friendly interface, especially for those familiar with other JetBrains IDEs.
  • Powerful refactoring and code analysis tools.
  • Seamless integration with version control systems like Git.
  • Cross-platform compatibility, enabling consistent development across different operating systems.
Cons of CLion
  • Slow performance, especially with larger projects, requiring restarts.
  • Limited or buggy integration with build tools like CMake.
  • Lack of a built-in compiler necessitates manual configuration.
  • Inconsistent debugging experience, occasionally freezing or crashing.
  • Limited theme options.

CLion alternatives

  • Logo of Visual Studio
    Visual Studio
    Code, debug, test, deploy: build any app, seamlessly.
    Read more
  • Logo of Code::Blocks
    Code::Blocks
    Free, open-source IDE for C, C++, Fortran coding on any platform.
    Read more
  • Logo of Eclipse
    Eclipse
    Code smarter, not harder. Free, open-source IDE for any project.
    Read more
  • Logo of Xcode
    Xcode
    Build, test, and ship apps for Apple devices.
    Read more
  • Logo of Azul Platform Core (Zulu)
    Azul Platform Core (Zulu)
    Open-source Java: secure, reliable, and free.
    Read more
  • Logo of SonarLint
    SonarLint
    Catches coding bugs and vulnerabilities before they cause trouble.
    Read more

CLion FAQ

  • What is CLion and what does CLion do?

    We find that CLion is a powerful IDE for C/C++ development. It offers smart coding assistance, debugging tools, and integrations with other development tools. It simplifies coding and boosts productivity for developers of all levels.

  • How does CLion integrate with other tools?

    CLion integrates seamlessly with CMake, Makefile, Gradle, and compilation databases. We also find that it works well with version control systems like Git and debuggers such as GDB and LLDB, creating a cohesive development environment. It also supports remote development via SSH.

  • What the main competitors of CLion?

    We find that CLion's main competitors are Visual Studio, Code::Blocks, Eclipse, and Xcode. These IDEs offer similar functionalities for C/C++ development, with varying features, pricing, and target platforms.

  • Is CLion legit?

    We find CLion to be a safe and legitimate IDE, especially appreciated by C/C++ developers. It's developed by JetBrains, a reputable company known for creating high-quality developer tools. We believe it's a solid choice.

  • How much does CLion cost?

    CLion offers several subscription options. For individual use, it costs $89 for the first year, then $79 for the second, and $59 for the third and subsequent years. For organizations, contact JetBrains for pricing details.

  • Is CLion customer service good?

    There are no customer service reviews available for CLion at this time. Therefore, we cannot provide insights into their customer service quality.


Reviewed by

MK
Michal Kaczor
CEO at Gralio

Michal has worked at startups for many years and writes about topics relating to software selection and IT management. As a former consultant for Bain, a business advisory company, he also knows how to understand needs of any business and find solutions to its problems.

TT
Tymon Terlikiewicz
CTO at Gralio

Tymon is a seasoned CTO who loves finding the perfect tools for any task. He recently headed up the tech department at Batmaid, a well-known Swiss company, where he managed about 60 software purchases, including CX, HR, Payroll, Marketing automation and various developer tools.

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