This page is now of historic interest only. Read our updated Group Test for the best open source Python IDEs.
An integrated development environment (IDE) is a software application that provides comprehensive facilities to programmers for software development. Productive development requires more than just a proficient text editor.
Many coders learn to code using a text editor but in time migrate to an IDE as this type of software application makes the art of coding quicker and more efficient. For example, IDEs have semantic knowledge of the programming language which highlights coding problems while typing. Compiling is ‘on the fly’ and debugging is integrated.
An IDE normally comprises a:
- Source code editor (essentially a text editor with additional features such as code completion, structural navigation, and syntax highlighting)
- Debugger
- Compiler and/or interpreter
- Build automation tools
A good IDE helps developers produce bug-free, maintainable applications quicker than using an editor and console based tools. Python IDEs aid programmers avoid mundane tasks, and make effective use of tools like error highlighting on the fly, version control, code inspections, project management, and more. Selecting an IDE can be a daunting task.
To provide an insight into the quality of software that is available, we have highlighted our favourite Python IDEs. Hopefully, there will be something of interest here for anyone who wants to quicken their pace of Python development.
Now, let’s explore the 6 Python IDEs at hand. For each title we have compiled its own portal page, a full description with an in-depth analysis of its features, a screenshot, together with links to relevant resources and reviews.
This page is now of historic interest only. Read our updated Group Test for the best open source Python IDEs.
| Python IDEs | |
|---|---|
| Eric | Full featured Python and Ruby editor and IDE |
| Spyder | Python IDE for scientists |
| IEP | Cross-platform Python IDE aimed at interactivity and introspection |
| PTK | Interactive environment for Python |
| Code::Blocks | Very extensible and fully configurable |
| Anjuta | Versatile development environment for GNOME |
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