Jetbrains vs Codespaces: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Jetbrains and Codespaces comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Jetbrains
Developer tools and IDEs
Best for you if:
- • JetBrains creates professional IDEs for developers including IntelliJ, WebStorm, and PyCharm
- • It provides intelligent coding assistance across all major programming languages
Codespaces
Secure cloud development environments native to GitHub, getting you up and coding faster.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (7.8/10 vs 7.6/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • Provides secure, configurable cloud development environments.
- • Enables instant coding from any device, streamlining onboarding and collaboration.
| At a Glance |  Jetbrains |  Codespaces |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | IDE & Code Editors | IDE & Code Editors |
Rating | 76/100 | 78/100 |
| Feature | Jetbrains | Codespaces |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 76 | 78 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | IDE & Code EditorsVersion Control | IDE & Code EditorsVersion Control |
How Jetbrains and Codespaces Compare
Jetbrains
Developer tools and IDEs
Paid · 76/100 score
Codespaces
Secure cloud development environments native to GitHub, getting you up and coding faster.
Free tier available · 78/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Codespaces has a free tier. Jetbrains is paid only.
Go with: Codespaces
Want the highest-rated option?
Jetbrains: 76/100. Codespaces: 78/100.
Go with: Codespaces
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Codespaces
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Jetbrains is paid. Codespaces is freemium. Codespaces lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are ide & code editors tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Codespaces scores higher: 78/100 vs 76/100.
Key Takeaways
Codespaces
- Higher score: 78/100 vs 76
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Jetbrains
The Bottom Line
Codespaces (78/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Jetbrains or Codespaces better?
Codespaces scores 78/100 in our evaluation. Jetbrains is paid and Codespaces is freemium.
What are Jetbrains and Codespaces used for?
Jetbrains: Developer tools and IDEs. Codespaces: Secure cloud development environments native to GitHub, getting you up and coding faster..
What does Jetbrains cost vs Codespaces?
Jetbrains is a paid tool. Codespaces is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.