VS Code as a Linux alternative to Sublime Text
Updated
Our verdict
VS Code is a solid replacement for Sublime Text on Linux, especially for users who want more than just editing—like debugging, Git integration, and language intelligence. It’s heavier due to Electron, so if you value raw speed and minimal resource use, Sublime feels snappier. But for developers wanting an integrated environment with rich tooling, VS Code delivers. It covers most editing features out of the box or via extensions. Best for those who prioritize functionality over startup time and don’t mind a larger footprint.
- License
- MIT
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 1.143.1
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Syntax highlighting for dozens of languages
- Code folding and regex-based find/replace
- Extensible via plugins (VS Code uses TypeScript/JavaScript, Sublime uses Python)
- Highly customizable themes and UI
- Multi-cursor editing support
What is different
- VS Code includes built-in debugging and Git tools—Sublime requires plugins
- VS Code has integrated terminal; Sublime can add one via plugin
- VS Code uses more RAM and CPU at idle due to Electron
- Sublime Text has faster startup and smoother large-file handling
- VS Code offers remote development (SSH, containers), which Sublime lacks
Opening your Sublime Text files
VS Code can open files created in Sublime Text without issue—both handle plain text, syntax-specific files, and project configurations in standard formats. Sublime’s .sublime-project files aren’t directly readable, but VS Code uses its own workspace setup. Settings and keybindings won’t transfer automatically, but custom syntax definitions or snippets in common formats (JSON, XML) can be reused with minor tweaks.
Switching from Sublime Text to VS Code, step by step
- Install VS Code via your distro’s package manager (e.g., 'pacman -S code' on Arch)
- Copy over custom snippets or language definitions manually
- Install extensions for languages and themes you used in Sublime
- Configure keybindings in VS Code to match Sublime shortcuts if desired
- Set up workspace or folder projects as needed
Key features of VS Code
- IntelliSense with context-aware suggestions
- Integrated terminal and shell integration
- Built-in Git version control
- Extensive extension marketplace
- Debugging support for multiple languages
- Remote development via SSH and containers
- Multi-cursor editing and find/replace
How to install VS Code on Linux
sudo pacman -S codeFrequently asked questions
Can I use my Sublime Text keybindings in VS Code?
Yes, you can manually configure most Sublime keybindings in VS Code through the keyboard shortcuts editor. Some defaults are already similar, and there are keymap extensions that replicate Sublime’s layout.
Is VS Code really free on Linux?
Yes. The open-source version (available in Arch and other repos) is free under the MIT license. Microsoft also provides a binary build with additional proprietary components like telemetry, but the core editor is free and open.
Does VS Code work offline?
Yes. Once installed and extensions are set up, VS Code works fully offline. IntelliSense and debugging run locally, though extension updates require internet access.
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