Apache NetBeans vs IntelliJ IDEA

Essential Studio

Microsoft Visual Studio

GitHub

Syncfusion Essential Studio® is a UI development suite that offers 1,700+ software components and frameworks for developing web, mobile, and desktop applications. Essential Studio® supports ASP.NET, Javascript, Angular, React, Flutter, WinForms, WPF, and more.

Microsoft Visual Studio Online is a web based collaboration and project management application designed for software shipping and building. The  Online platform enables you to create software projects as well as track and manage programming processes to help identify bugs, new features and more.

GitHub is a place to share code with friends, co-workers, classmates, and complete strangers, helping individuals and teams to write faster, better code

Apache NetBeans is an open-source IDE that provides code editors, wizards, and templates. It can help developers create apps in Java, PHP, and other languages. Apache NetBeans can be installed on Windows, Mac OSX, Linux, and BSD operating systems.

Code Development

Code Editing

Debugging

Deployment Management

For Developers

Graphical User Interface

Integrated Development Environment

Mobile Development

Software Development

Version Control

Web App Development

Web/Mobile App Development

Website Development

By industry, Apache NetBeans reviewers are most commonly professionals in computer software (36%). The most frequent use case cited is as an integrated development environment (IDE) (78% of reviewers).

Users and use cases

Apache NetBeans is an integrated development environment (IDE) solution offering key features such as code development, code editing, debugging, and deployment management, among others.

Open Source

Apache NetBeans

Web-based

Eclipse IDE

Sublime Text

IntelliJ IDEA

Notepad++

PhpStorm 

PyCharm

Basic

High memory resource usage

Quality Engineer

NetBeans crashes sometimes when we use it for longer time and it can consume lots of memory which cause the system to be slower.

100% of reviewers feel negative about NetBeans’ memory consumption. Users think the IDE is heavy on system resources, often requiring significant RAM and processing power. Reviewers indicate that running NetBeans on less powerful hardware leads to slowdowns, crashes, and long loading times. Some users say working on large projects or using multiple plugins exacerbates these issues, making the software less suitable for older computers or resource-constrained environments.

Sluggish performance on large projects

Junior Software Engineer

The loading time is slow and the program is heavy to run in overall .

86% of reviewers feel negative about NetBeans’ performance and speed. Users report that the IDE is slow to start, lags during navigation, and struggles with large or complex projects. Reviewers indicate that high CPU usage and long compilation times disrupt their workflow, especially on machines with average specifications. Some users say frequent lagging and slow response times make quick edits and debugging frustrating, reducing overall productivity when handling demanding development tasks.

Broad language support

Technical Office Engineer

The intuitive user interface, the variety of supported languages & library imports & the unparalleled ease of integrating iOS & Android emulators (on my MacBook) to test out my applications prior to publishing my builds makes NetBeans a truly fascinating piece of software that's genuinely made my workload easier.

100% of reviewers feel positive about NetBeans’ support for multiple programming languages. Reviewers appreciate that the IDE accommodates Java, C++, PHP, HTML, CSS, and more, allowing them to work on diverse projects within a single environment. Users say this versatility streamlines their workflow and enables easy integration of various frameworks and libraries. Some users report that plugin management further expands language support, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced developers who need flexibility in their development tasks.

Cost-free open source access

100% of reviewers feel positive about NetBeans being free and open source. Users think the lack of licensing fees makes it highly accessible, especially for students and those with limited budgets. Reviewers appreciate that they can use a feature-rich IDE without financial barriers, and they find the open-source nature beneficial for flexibility and community-driven improvements. Some users say this accessibility encourages adoption among new programmers, while others indicate that multi-platform support further enhances its appeal for a wide range of users.

Comprehensive java development tools

PHD student

A practical environment for developing in Java.

Co-founder

Specifically developing in Java on this IDE is amazing.

97% of reviewers feel positive about NetBeans’ development environment. Users think the IDE provides a practical and intuitive workspace, particularly for Java application development. Reviewers indicate that features like drag-and-drop GUI design, advanced debugging, and project management tools facilitate efficient coding and learning. Some users say the environment is especially helpful for building desktop and GUI applications, while others find it beneficial for both individual and team projects due to its user-friendly interface and robust toolset.

Senior Software Developer

As in every IDE, it has auto-completion, error detection and correction features. But the important features for me are the quick and easy interface design, the drag-and-drop feature, and the rapid design of visual interfaces.

Desarrollador de software

It can be configurated to support Language like PHP, JAVA, HTML etc. And the GUI can be customizable, with colorn fonts, views and customs commands.

Associate Professor

It supported seamless integration with J2EE application servers and several database management systems using JDBC such as Oracle and MySQL.Other development platforms such as C++/PHP/Javascript/... are supported as well, but still Netbeans goes very well with Java development over other development platforms.

Software development engineer 

In my experience with Apache NetBeans, I have developed school projects such as calculators and programs using data structures like stacks and queues.

At the same time, NetBeans has made my compiling, merging, packaging, and distribution of code very easy and has provided many integrated tools for this.

Software Developer

It contains controls that can be dragged and placed on the designer page and a developer can build an application based on them.

Web Developer

My overall experience with Netbeans is positive. When it comes to large Java projects I often choose it as my IDE. Although, I'm sure there are better alternatives out there.

It has helped me improve on my java applications where each and every time a have an idea, I am able to upgrade to a newer version.

The Swing GUI editor makes it extremely easy to build programs with fairly complex UI with drag and drop components, that are then easily wired up to functionality.

Indeed I started developing a program using the Java language but I was facing several problems when I was changing the connection from one database to another and it took time from me to solve it.

Software engineer

My experience with NetBeans is good for develop PHP, but the plugins that install in an older version not run in a new version or broke the IDE.

Fullstack dev

I have used this IDE to teach others to use java, most of the time works well and it´s easy to get started as developer by using Netbeans, but there are bugs that don´t make this IDE ideal for anybody or reliable to work with

Associate Frontend Developer

Other features like debugging and multiple language support and integration is also very helpful.

Lead Engineer 

It provides you full features and functionality to work on Java related frameworks, be it core Java, web development or desktop application development it features great support for all

It often takes a long time for new features to make it to the IDE, and it can be a bit of a learning curve to get started.

For example I wanted to change the connection from the Oracle database to the SQL Sever database so I had several problems.

My university told me to develop a desktop application to make it easier for students to view their files.

so, there are errors that don´t happen in other IDE with the same code, GUI needs to be reimagined

Despite its versatility, NetBeans offers an intuitive interface, making it accessible for students and learners.

Assistant Professor

The code auto-completion is also very decent though some advancements can still be incorporated to make it much better.

Training Coordinator

It is complete ide with all the modern coding tool like code refactoring, debugging, version control etc.

Excellent features that supported all my application development needs in Java.

Chief Architect 

It can also be integrated with other plugins such as Apache Maven.

The code auto completion is a little mediocre but still works pretty decently.

Good experience but now exists other options more lighter and with graphics interface according to this times

This is a typical Java pattern as Netbeans is developed in Java itself.

front end developer

It is budget friendly and also supports multiple programming language.

I used it to develop multiple java projects.

Teacher

Moreover, our students can download the platform for fee which make it more accessible compare to other platform which is great perks as newbie programmer.

IT Manager

It has built-in debug, run, versioning system, themes, customization, etc.  

IT Administrator

As a Java programmer, it is definitely better usable than as a Javascript developer - or so was my impression

Offers a decent way to develop. If you are using Java, it is excellent - but I am not ;-)

Have many options, that is difficult to find in a large menu.

I would not say "don't use it", but I would suggest to compare with other tools to find out the best fitting one.

The looks and fell of the program feels a bit old.

search of code in a project is simple, useful and simple.

Despite relatively simple requirements and few open pages, memory usage seems to quickly grow to where 3 gigs of RAM can be consumed.

Backend Developer

Using it feels heavy than using other lighter IDE.

Student

Sometimes there will be a problem when you install the newest JDK and the Netbeans's version  isn't fully support the newest JDK version.

Honestly the only issue I have with this software are its high computational requirements, it requires a lot of machine power for it to run.

Embedded Software Developer

Netbeans has Controls that may be dragged and dropped onto a designer page and used to build an application.

Data Platform Engineer

It supports integration with Apache server that provides Database Server as well.

The least thing on this platform is it too sensitive and other data types cannot be used and a lot of errors occurs.

Software Product Manager

Supports development of various kinds of applications like Web Applications and Desktop Applications.

Finacle consultant

I find NetBeans to be user-friendly, with a straightforward interface and intuitive tools.

It's rock steady, and has pretty much all the functionality you need.

Sr Software Engineer

Great product that was fast at compiling and giving me answers to questions, great at picking out errors and very prompt and thorough about it.

I  consider it a good choice for both beginners and experienced developers.

Its built-in debugger was also good and was really useful for me.

Integrations

Project Management

Ease of Use

Code Completion

User Interface

Drag and Drop

Developer Experience

Customer Support

Bugs and Issues

Users report that debugging in Apache NetBeans is straightforward and effective, with easy breakpoint management, variable watchers, and clear error highlighting. Reviewers indicate that Apache NetBeans helps them quickly identify bugs in Java, PHP, and other languages, making it easy to follow code execution. They say the debugging console is informative and the interface is helpful, though some users feel debugging for scripting languages like PHP can be less efficient compared to commercial IDEs. Of the 28 Apache NetBeans users who gave detailed accounts of their use of Debugging, 96% rated this feature as important or highly important.

Freelancers

Small Business

Mid-size Business

Large Enterprises

Apache Software Foundation

Developer

The software is very expensive, and the support isn't easy to reach (only public forums, no kind of chat/mail/phone support).

QA Automation Engineer

Also, good documentation, customer support, and a vast community guarantee that any problem with the app is solved with ease.

Senior Software Engineer

Its been almost 18 months since our team is working on Jetbrains intelliJ, and their support is outstanding.

IntelliJ IDEA is the JetBrains IDE for pro development in Java and Kotlin. Built for your comfort, it unlocks productivity, ensures quality code, supports cutting-edge tech, and protects your privacy.

Automated Testing 

Change Management

Collaboration Tools

Compatibility Testing

Configurable Workflow

Custom Development

Database Support

Data Import/Export

Data Modeling

Data Security

Data Visualization

Game Development

Offline Access

Performance Management

Pre-built Templates

Reporting/Analytics

Source Control

Task Management

Third-Party Integrations

Workflow Management

By industry, IntelliJ IDEA reviewers are most commonly professionals in computer software (40%). The most frequent use case cited is as an integrated development environment (IDE) (74% of reviewers).

Some users say IntelliJ IDEA provides strong value through free or discounted educational licenses, and reviewers appreciate the Community Edition’s essential features. However, many reviewers indicate the Ultimate edition is expensive, especially for individuals, freelancers, and small teams.

Value for money

The IntelliJ IDEA integrations most frequently cited by reviewers are: GitHub (an application development product rated 4.7 out of 5 for its integration with IntelliJ IDEA), Git (a source code management product, 4.9), and MySQL (a database product, 5.0).

IntelliJ IDEA is an application development program with key features that include code development, code editing, integrated development environment, source control, debugging, graphical user interface, and more.

Proprietary

Windows

Linux

Chromebook

Android Studio

Ultimate subscription

Ultimate subscription for organizations

Demanding hardware specifications

60% of reviewers feel negative about IntelliJ IDEA’s hardware requirements. Users indicate the IDE requires modern, high-performance computers to run smoothly, with older or less powerful devices experiencing slow load times, crashes, or high CPU and battery usage. Reviewers say the software’s large installation size and heavy resource demands make it unsuitable for lightweight or portable setups. They find this particularly challenging for those working on the go or with limited hardware budgets.

High system resource usage

Big Data Consultant

It is very resource heavy , sometimes consumes a huge block of memory on machine, Especially it gets very difficult while working parallel to a video call (remote working) as video call apps are also resource heavy.

SDE2

Takes lots of system resources to run and at times hangs the complete system which I feel is the only disadvantage of the product

77% of reviewers feel negative about IntelliJ IDEA’s resource consumption. Reviewers indicate the IDE is resource-intensive, often consuming significant CPU and memory, especially during tasks like indexing or compiling. Users say this can slow down their systems, particularly on lower-end hardware or when running multiple applications. Some users report needing to close other programs or even the IDE itself to restore performance. They find the heavy resource usage problematic for large projects and note that it can lead to slow startups and occasional system freezes.

Occasional bugs and glitches

54% of reviewers feel negative about IntelliJ IDEA’s bugs and issues. Reviewers report encountering various problems, such as crashes, configuration errors, plugin incompatibilities, and inconsistent error reporting. Users say some bugs can disrupt workflows, require manual intervention, or lead to lost time. They indicate that updates may introduce new issues, and some find the process of reporting bugs or getting support cumbersome. These recurring glitches can be frustrating, especially during critical development tasks.

Expensive licensing model

instruktor

Many individuals can't/don't have any desire to bear the cost of the paid rendition, so they either utilize the free one, or privateer it, or utilize other IDEs.

61% of reviewers feel negative about IntelliJ IDEA’s pricing. Reviewers indicate the cost of the Ultimate edition is high, making it less accessible for students, freelancers, and small teams. Users say the recurring subscription fees and license management process can be cumbersome, and some feel the price is not justified compared to free alternatives. They report that the expense can be a barrier, especially in regions with unfavorable currency exchange rates or for those who only need basic features.

Sluggish performance on some systems

Software Engineer

With IntelliJ IDE there are some lags while developing huge code and it requires machines with higher configuration than average machines to run it smoothly.

72% of reviewers feel negative about IntelliJ IDEA’s performance and speed. Users report slow startup times, laggy operation, and occasional unresponsiveness, especially on older or less powerful machines. Reviewers indicate that working with large codebases or multiple projects can exacerbate these issues, leading to crashes or significant delays. They say the IDE’s memory and CPU demands can hinder productivity, and some users recommend higher hardware specifications for smoother operation. These performance concerns are a recurring frustration for many.

Robust refactoring capabilities

QA Engineer

It offers excellent code completion and refactoring tools, which can help developers write cleaner, more efficient code.

99% of reviewers feel positive about IntelliJ IDEA’s code refactoring tools. Users indicate the IDE offers a wide array of safe, reliable, and intuitive refactoring options, such as renaming, extracting methods, and restructuring code. Reviewers appreciate how changes are applied consistently across the codebase, minimizing manual effort and risk of errors. They say the refactoring features, combined with intelligent code analysis, make it easier to maintain and improve code quality. Many users find these tools essential for large projects and ongoing development.

Apache NetBeans vs IntelliJ IDEA Comparison (2026)

Apache NetBeans

IntelliJ IDEA

Overview

Video & Screenshots

Pricing

User reviews

Key features

Integrations

Alternatives