Sublime Text vs Zed: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Sublime Text and Zed 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.
Bottom line: Sublime Text is our overall pick for IDE & code editors workflows. Pick Zed if you need a free tier to start with.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Sublime Text
Lightning-fast code editing with multiple cursors and instant navigation
Best for you if:
- • Sublime Text is a fast, sophisticated text editor for code
- • It provides powerful shortcuts, goto anything, and extensive customization
Zed
GPU-accelerated code editor for lightning-fast, real-time collaboration
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • Zed is a high-performance code editor built in Rust
- • It provides real-time collaboration with native performance
| At a Glance |  Sublime Text |  Zed |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $99/onceLicense | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | IDE & Code Editors | IDE & Code Editors |
Rating | 4.5/5 | - |
Free plan | No | Yes |
Choose Sublime Text or Zed?
Choose Sublime Text if
Lightning-fast code editing with multiple cursors and instant navigation
- Extremely fast
- Lightweight
- Multiple cursors
Choose Zed if
GPU-accelerated code editor for lightning-fast, real-time collaboration
- Blazing fast
- Real-time collab
- AI built-in
- You want a free tier before you commit
| Feature | Sublime Text | Zed |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.5/5 3,156 reviews | No ratings yet |
| Categories | IDE & Code EditorsWriting & Content | IDE & Code EditorsAI Assistants |
In-Depth Analysis
Sublime Text
Lightning-fast code editing with multiple cursors and instant navigation
Strengths
- +Extremely fast
- +Lightweight
- +Multiple cursors
Weaknesses
- -Less features than IDEs
- -Nagware model
Key features
Zed
GPU-accelerated code editor for lightning-fast, real-time collaboration
Strengths
- +Blazing fast
- +Real-time collab
- +AI built-in
Weaknesses
- -Fewer extensions
Key features
Pricing: Sublime Text vs Zed
| Plan | Sublime Text | Zed |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $99 once License | Free Free |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Sublime Text pricing and Zed pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Zed has a free tier. Sublime Text is paid only.
Go with: Zed
Want the highest-rated option?
Sublime Text is rated 4.5/5. Zed has no ratings yet.
Go with: Sublime Text
Value user reviews?
Sublime Text: 3,156 reviews (4.5/5). Zed: no ratings yet.
Go with: Sublime Text
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Sublime Text is paid. Zed is freemium. Zed 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?
Sublime Text is rated 4.5/5; Zed has no ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
Sublime Text
- Our pick for this comparison
Zed
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Sublime Text is our pick. Zed has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sublime Text or Zed better?
Sublime Text is rated in our evaluation. Sublime Text is paid and Zed is freemium.
What are Sublime Text and Zed used for?
Sublime Text: Lightning-fast code editing with multiple cursors and instant navigation. Zed: GPU-accelerated code editor for lightning-fast, real-time collaboration.
What does Sublime Text cost vs Zed?
Sublime Text is a paid tool. Zed is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.