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IDE for Python Programming language on Windows

Updated Oct 16, 2019

In 2019, Python has once again emerged as the most favorite programming language in the world of coders. Quick to comprehend and apply, as well as highly effective in drawing the desired results, Python has set itself far ahead in the competition. As it is speedy and versatile, the programming language is gaining in popularity with organizations, globally. As Python has a vast range of applications in several areas, several Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) can be found in the marketplace to provide the necessary support to users.

Why do you Need a Python IDE?

While writing Python codes using the Python Shell or IDLE is helpful for simple codes, the more complicated programming projects require a dedicated code editor or IDE to facilitate better coding. These IDEs are specifically designed to take care of complicated coding and testing, especially those that deal with multiple unit tests and files.

They take care of code-folding, syntax highlighting and bracket-matching along with handling several other functions. Specific IDEs are programmed to manage the constituent source files of the different project. They are largely instrumental in running full or partial Python codes. The more advanced features of the different IDEs that support Python include a debugger, code suggestions and linkage with online repositories.

Here, we have a rundown of the best IDEs for Python in 2019.

Best Python IDE in 2019

1. PyScripter

PyScripter is an open-source IDE packaged with several features and functionalities. It is a very competitive product and rubs shoulders with top-rated IDEs.

  • Competitive in functionality, especially in context to commercial IDEs for other languages, it is lightweight and feature-rich.
  • As a Syntax highlighting editor, PyScripter is Unicode based and showcases the features of Brace highlighting, parameterized code templates, syntax checking while typing, context-sensitive help, side-by-side file editing, etc.
  • As an integrated Python interpreter, it features tools for code completion, command history, call tips, etc.
  • PyScripter also serves as an integrated Python debugger wherein it features a call stack, variables window, conditional breakpoints, watches window, etc.

Pros: PyScripter is very light and offers bench-marked debugging with a remote engine.

Cons: It can be used only with Windows and 32bit Python versions.

2. Eclipse plus PyDev

Among the most used IDEs for development, Eclipse Plus PyDev provides several features like interactive console, refactoring, debugger, token browser, etc.

  • It has smart code analysis tools as well. Eclipse Plus PyDev provides support for IronPython, Python, Jython, and Django, thereby serving as a multi-operational IDE.
  • Eclipse Plus PyDev is available for OS X at, Linux, Windows and is the de-facto IDE for open-source Java development.
  • With numerous extensions and add-ons to its credit, Eclipse can be used for several development activities.
  • Its advanced inference techniques offer better code analysis and completion features.
  • It can also be used for debugging codes in quick and efficient ways.

Pros: If you have already installed Eclipse, then adding PyDev will be a quicker and easier process. It is accessible to experienced Eclipse developers.

Cons: In case you are a Python novice or a general software developer, then Eclipse is more massive and requires more knowledge for proper use.

3. Eric Python IDE

Designed for everyday application and professional projects alike, Eric Python IDE is a full-scale IDE.

  • It offers significant features such as highlighting array, auto-correct and integrated web browser.
  • All kinds of easy and complicated Python projects can be managed with the help of the advanced integrated tools provided by Eric Python IDE.
  • It comprises of extensions and a drug-in system that is capable of being downloaded directly from the IDE.
  • Eric Python IDE provides real-time collaboration support for Python codes. It offers the best tools for code completion, code folding and brace matching.
  • It has a built-in SQL browser, hex editor and icon designer.
  • The IDE supports unit tests. It can debug multi-threaded / multiprocessing codes alike.

Pros: It is a useful IDE of severe coders and offers bench-marked support for Ruby and many other languages as well.

Cons: The interface of Eric Python IDE is slightly busy.

4. IDLE

IDLE tops the list of primitive IDEs for Python. This IDE was created to serve as a primary tool for running simple and easy programs. Because it presents a basket of primitive functions and options, IDLE is unsuitable for complex programming.

  • IDLE is quite minimal in its features and functions when compared to others; however, it is easy-to-use and provides all necessary functionality and tools.
    Coded in Python, IDLE provides a lightweight Tkinter toolkit for the sake of drawing its GUI.
  • Users can play with code snippets with IDLE wherein the output and keywords are colored distinctly for easy recognition.
  • A new window is a provider to users for program coding purposes. The code can be automatically indented and appropriately highlighted in this window. The IDE supports spaces or tabs for the cause of indentation and can indent more than one line at any given time.
  • IDLE provides a powerful debugger for single-stepping via the code, or for over-stepping across all high-level functions.

Pros: Lightweight and compact with a powerful debugger.

Cons: IDLE does not have project management capabilities.

5. Visual Studio Code

Microsoft’s code editor, the Visual Studio Code, has become the preferred choice for developers of late. It is a good option for Python projects once the Python extension has been installed.

  • Visual Studio Code supports linting and offers its own debugger.
  • It can be integrated with various types of source control tools.
  • Complete with a built-in terminal as well as a well-stocked marketplace for extensions, it can be used for running and debugging all types of projects.
  • Visual Studio Code can be used for debugging unit tests with the help of the unit test, nose frameworks and pytest.
  • It has a minimalist 'zen mode' that showcases the file that’s being worked upon – the Code's interface and the remaining desktop gets hidden.
  • The IDE is highly configurable. It possesses a settings panel wherein every section unfolds to show the corresponding section settings.json file in a highlighted fashion.
  • For Python, Code provides popups that show the documented information for classes and methods.

Pros: Powerful features and impressive extensions. Minimalist features for its ‘zen mode’.

Cons: Code is an Electron app like Atom; it is a little bulky as a cross-platform.

Which Python IDE should you Choose?

Here are some recommendations as you go about the task of deciding upon the best IDE for your needs:

  • If you are an amateur Python developer, then go for solutions with minimal customization. The more minimalist the IDE, the lesser it will get in your way.
  • In case you fancy text editors for jobs pertaining to web pages and/or documentation than code editor solutions are the right way to go.
  • If you are in the process of developing other software, then you may want to include Python capabilities to extend the functionality of your existing tool set.

Take your pick of the best IDE for Python in 2019, right away!


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