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NetBeans

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Ratings

G2
4.1/5
(670)

NetBeans description

NetBeans is a free, open-source software platform designed for building a variety of applications, primarily for businesses. It supports popular programming languages like Java, PHP, and C/C++, and provides tools that streamline the coding process, making it faster and more efficient. NetBeans runs seamlessly on Windows, Linux, and Mac operating systems, offering flexibility for developers. Its key strength lies in its comprehensive set of features for creating applications, making it a versatile choice for businesses of all sizes.


Who is NetBeans best for

NetBeans is a free, open-source IDE best suited for Java development, particularly for GUI design. Users praise its comprehensive features and ease of use, especially for beginners. However, some find its performance and outdated UI to be drawbacks. It's ideal for developers seeking a free and feature-rich Java IDE but who may need to consider performance limitations.

  • Ideal for small, medium, and large businesses.

  • Well-suited for Software, IT, and Telecommunications; suitable for various other industries like Healthcare, Finance, and Media.


NetBeans features

Supported

NetBeans supports Windows, macOS, Linux, and Solaris.

Supported

NetBeans supports code completion to speed up coding and reduce errors.

Supported

NetBeans supports code refactoring with tools for renaming, extracting methods, and more.

Supported

NetBeans has syntax highlighting to improve code readability.

Supported

NetBeans offers debugging tools like breakpoints, stepping, and variable inspection.

Supported

NetBeans supports multiple languages in one project through its modular architecture.

Supported

NetBeans automatically formats code based on predefined and customizable rules.


NetBeans reviews

We've summarised 670 NetBeans reviews (NetBeans G2 reviews) and summarised the main points below.

Pros of NetBeans
  • Excellent for Java development, particularly GUI design with Swing.
  • Comprehensive features for coding, debugging, and project management.
  • Easy-to-use interface, especially for beginners.
  • Free and open-source, making it accessible to everyone.
  • Extensive plugin ecosystem allows for customization and extended functionality.
Cons of NetBeans
  • Slow startup and loading times are frequently reported.
  • High memory usage can lead to performance issues, especially on older machines.
  • Limited support for languages other than Java, hindering versatility.
  • UI design is considered outdated and less visually appealing compared to modern IDEs.
  • Occasional bugs and crashes can disrupt workflow.

NetBeans alternatives

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NetBeans FAQ

  • What is NetBeans and what does NetBeans do?

    NetBeans is a free, open-source IDE for developing desktop, mobile, and web applications. It supports Java, PHP, C/C++, and other languages, providing tools for coding, debugging, and project management. While praised for its comprehensive features and ease of use, some users find it resource-intensive.

  • How does NetBeans integrate with other tools?

    NetBeans integrates with various tools and technologies through its plugin ecosystem. It supports multiple languages like Java, PHP, and C/C++, enhancing its versatility for different project needs. This modular architecture allows developers to customize their environment and extend functionalities as required.

  • What the main competitors of NetBeans?

    Top NetBeans competitors include IntelliJ IDEA, Eclipse, and Visual Studio. These alternatives offer similar features for software development, often with varying focuses on supported languages and integrated tools. For example, IntelliJ IDEA excels with Java and Kotlin, while Visual Studio caters to a broader range of development needs.

  • Is NetBeans legit?

    NetBeans is a legitimate and safe open-source IDE. It's free to use and popular for Java development, especially GUI design. However, some users report slow startup times and high memory usage.

  • How much does NetBeans cost?

    NetBeans is an open-source IDE, meaning it's free to use. There are no pricing tiers or paid add-ons for this product. This makes NetBeans a cost-effective choice for individual developers and businesses.

  • Is NetBeans customer service good?

    Based on the reviews, NetBeans' open-source nature fosters a helpful community that assists with development challenges. However, the reliability of community-contributed plugins can be inconsistent, sometimes causing compatibility issues.


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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