Best Tools for Developers 2026
Updated: February 2026
Essential development tools, IDEs, and utilities for software engineers. Code faster and ship better software. We've curated 15 tools specifically suited for developers.
Key Takeaways
- Plant is our #1 pick for version control for developers in 2026.
- We analyzed 15 version control for developers tools to create this ranking.
- 12 tools offer free plans, perfect for getting started.
- Average editorial score: 18/100 - high-quality category.
15 Version Control Tools for Developers
GitButler
Supercharge your Git workflow with virtual branches and a powerful desktop client.
Git Extensions
A standalone UI tool for managing Git repositories with a rich, visual interface.
SmartGit
A powerful, cross-platform Git client for streamlined development and collaboration.
Sublime Merge
A fast and powerful Git client for efficient version control and code review.
gitui
Blazing fast terminal-ui for Git, offering a GUI-like experience directly in your terminal.
Dolt
The Git for data, a SQL database that you can fork, clone, branch, merge, and push.
Best Version Control for Other Use Cases
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best version control tool for developers?
Based on our analysis, Plant is the top choice for developers, with a score of /100.
Are there free version control tools for developers?
Yes! Plant, Git Cola, GitButler offer free plans suitable for developers.