Visual Studio CodeLinux
vs
JetBrains WebStormWindows
Visual Studio Code as a Linux alternative to JetBrains WebStorm
Updated
Our verdict
Visual Studio Code is a strong, free alternative to WebStorm for most JavaScript and TypeScript developers. It handles syntax highlighting, debugging, Git, and package management well out of the box. However, it lacks WebStorm's deep, IDE-specific refactoring and framework awareness by default. You will need to install extensions to match WebStorm's convenience. If you prefer a lightweight, highly customizable editor and are willing to configure tools, VS Code works. If you rely heavily on automatic, intelligent refactoring without manual setup, you may feel the gap.
- License
- LicenseRef-proprietary=https://code.visu…
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 1.139.1 (September 25, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Supports JavaScript and TypeScript with syntax highlighting and IntelliSense
- Integrated Git support and source control management
- Built-in debugging capabilities for Node.js and other runtimes
- Integrated terminal for running npm or yarn commands
- Cross-platform availability with consistent UI on Linux
What is different
- WebStorm offers deeper, automatic refactoring and code analysis specific to JS/TS frameworks
- VS Code is an extensible editor requiring extensions for full IDE-like features
- WebStorm is a commercial product with bundled support; VS Code is proprietary but free
- WebStorm has tighter integration with specific frameworks out of the box
- VS Code Flatpak version may have limitations with the integrated terminal
Opening your JetBrains WebStorm files
Visual Studio Code does not directly open or export JetBrains WebStorm project files (.idea folders or .iml files). You can open the source code directories directly in VS Code. Configuration files like tsconfig.json and package.json are compatible. You will need to recreate workspace settings and launch configurations in VS Code's .vscode folder to match your WebStorm setup.
Switching from JetBrains WebStorm to Visual Studio Code, step by step
- Install Visual Studio Code via Flatpak or your distribution's package manager
- Open your project directory in VS Code
- Install essential extensions: TypeScript, ESLint, Prettier, and Debugger for Chrome
- Configure launch.json for debugging if not auto-generated
- Set up your preferred linter and formatter in settings.json
- Test your build and debug workflows to ensure parity
Key features of Visual Studio Code
- Cross‑platform, same UI on Linux, macOS, Windows
- Built‑in Git support and source control
- Extensible via a large marketplace
- Integrated terminal and debugging
- Smart code completion (IntelliSense)
- Language‑specific linters and formatters
How to install Visual Studio Code on Linux
flatpak install flathub com.visualstudio.codeFrequently asked questions
Is VS Code on Linux the same as the Windows version?
Yes, the core editor is cross-platform. The Linux version via Flatpak is a repackaged proprietary build, so some features like the integrated terminal may require specific configuration as noted in the documentation.
Do I need to pay for VS Code?
No, Visual Studio Code is free to use. It is proprietary software, but there is no license fee for individual developers.
Can VS Code replace WebStorm's framework support?
Partially. VS Code relies on extensions for framework-specific assistance. While many extensions exist, the depth and automation of WebStorm's built-in framework support may not be fully replicated without significant configuration.
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