WebStorm vs Windsurf: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between WebStorm and Windsurf 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:
WebStorm
JetBrains IDE for JavaScript
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 8.5/10)
- • The smartest JavaScript IDE from JetBrains with deep code understanding
- • Built-in support for React, Vue, Angular, Node.js, and TypeScript out of the box
Windsurf
The AI-native code editor
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • An AI-native IDE with an agentic AI (Cascade) for deep codebase understanding and real-time assistance.
- • Offers generative code, live previews, and intelligent refactoring to streamline development workflows.
| At a Glance |  WebStorm |  Windsurf |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | IDE & Code Editors | IDE & Code Editors |
Rating | 90/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | WebStorm | Windsurf |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 90 | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | IDE & Code EditorsDebugging | IDE & Code EditorsCode Review |
How WebStorm and Windsurf Compare
WebStorm
JetBrains IDE for JavaScript
Paid · 90/100 score
Windsurf
The AI-native code editor
Free tier available · 85/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Windsurf has a free tier. WebStorm is paid only.
Go with: Windsurf
Want the highest-rated option?
WebStorm: 90/100. Windsurf: 85/100.
Go with: WebStorm
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: WebStorm
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
WebStorm is paid. Windsurf is freemium. Windsurf 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?
WebStorm scores higher: 90/100 vs 85/100.
Key Takeaways
WebStorm
- Higher score: 90/100 vs 85
- Our pick for this comparison
Windsurf
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
WebStorm (90/100) is our pick. Windsurf has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is WebStorm or Windsurf better?
WebStorm scores 90/100 in our evaluation. WebStorm is paid and Windsurf is freemium.
What are WebStorm and Windsurf used for?
WebStorm: JetBrains IDE for JavaScript. Windsurf: The AI-native code editor.
What does WebStorm cost vs Windsurf?
WebStorm is a paid tool. Windsurf is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.