The PHP syntax is very similar to Perl and C. So if you are looking for a Free and powerful open-source PHP editor ready to use in your web projects. Take a look at this list with 9 Useful open-source PHP editors for web developers. Best 9 Free Open-Source PHP editor. Built-in developer tools. Perform many routine tasks right from the IDE, thanks to the Version Control Systems integration, support for remote deployment, databases/SQL, command-line tools, Docker, Composer, REST Client, and many other tools.

Whether you're a seasoned developer or you're just learning how to code, staying on top of the latest integrated development environments is a constant challenge. Truthfully, there is no best IDE for everyone. The best IDE is the IDE that works best for you, so below is a selection of 10 of the most popular choices to help you figure out which one to pick.

How is an IDE different from a text editor?

An IDE is more than a simple text editor. While code-centric text editors such as Sublime or Atom offer many convenient features such as syntax highlighting, customizable interfaces and extensive navigation tools, they only allow you to write code. To make functioning applications, you at least need a compiler and a debugger.

An IDE includes all of these components and then more. Some IDEs come with additional tools for automating, testing and visualizing the development process. The term 'integrated development environment' means that you have everything you need to turn code into functioning apps and programs.

Which is the best IDE on the market? The better question is: 'Which is the best IDE for my purposes?' General factors to consider when choosing the best IDE include the languages it can support, ease of use and cost.

Check out the list below outlining the features and drawbacks of each of the top 10 best IDE software programs.

1. Microsoft Visual Studio

Microsoft Visual Studio is a premium IDE ranging in price from $699 - $2,900 depending on the edition and licensing. The many editions of this IDE are capable of creating all types of programs ranging from web applications to mobile apps to video games. This series of software includes tons of tools for compatibility testing so that you can see how your apps run on more than 300 devices and browsers. Thanks to its flexibility, Visual Studio is a great tool for both students and professionals.

Languages supported: ASP.NET, DHTML, JavaScript, JScript, Visual Basic, Visual C#, Visual C++, Visual F#, XAML and more

Notable features:

• A massive library of extensions that is always growing
• IntelliSense
• Customizable dashboard and dockable windows
• Straightforward workflow and file hierarchy
• Insights for monitoring performance in real time
• Automation tools
• Easy refactoring and code snippet insertion
• Split screen support
• Error list that allows debugging while building
• Approval checks when deploying apps via ClickOnce, Windows Installer or Publish Wizard

Drawbacks: Because the Visual Studio is a heavyweight IDE, it takes considerable resources to open and run, so making simple edits may be time consuming on some devices. For simpler task, it may be easier to use a lightweight editor.

2. NetBeans

Netbeans is a free and open source IDE. Ideal for editing existing projects or starting from scratch, NetBeans boasts a simple drag-and-drop interface that comes with a myriad of convenient project templates. It is primarily used to develop Java applications, but you can download bundles that support other languages.

Languages supported: C, C++, C++11, Fortan, HTML 5, Java, PHP and more

Notable features:

• Intuitive drag-and-drop interface
• Dynamic and static libraries
• Multi-session GNU debugger integration with code assistance
• Allows for remote development
• Compatible with Windows, Linux, OS X, and Solaris platforms
• Supports Qt Toolkit
• Supports Fortan and Assembler files
• Supports a number of compilers including CLang/LLVM, Cygwin, GNU, MinGW and Oracle Solaris Studio

Drawbacks: This free IDE consumes a lot of memory, so it may perform sluggishly on some machines.

3. PyCharm

PyCharm is developed by the folks over at Jet Brains and provides users a free Community Edition, 30 day free trial for the Professional Edition, $213 - $690 for an annual subscription. Comprehensive code assistance and analysis make PyCharm the best IDE for Python programmers of all ability levels. PyCharm also supports other languages and works on multiple platforms, so practically anyone can use it.

Languages supported: AngularJS, Coffee Script, CSS, Cython, HTML, JavaScript, Node.js, Python, TypeScript and template languages

Notable features:

• Compatible with Windows, Linux, and Mac OS
• Comes with Django IDE
• Easy to integrate with Git, Mercurial and SVN
• Customizable interface with VIM emulation
• JavaScript, Python and Django debuggers
• Supports Google App Engine

Drawbacks: Users complain that PyCharm has some bugs, such as the autocomplete feature occasionally not working, which can be a minor inconvenience.

4. IntelliJ IDEA

IntelliJ IDEA is another IDE developed by Jet Brains. This IDE offers users a free Community Edition, 30 day free trial for the Ultimate Edition, and costs $533 - $693 annually depending on features. IntelliJ IDEA, which supports Java 8 and Java EE 7, comes with extensive tools to develop mobile apps and enterprise technologies for different platforms. When it comes to cost, IntelliJ is a real deal due to the massive of list of features you get.

Languages supported: AngularJS, CoffeeScript, CS, HTML, JavaScript, Less, Node JS, PHP, Python, Ruby, Sass, TypeScript and more.

Notable features:

• Extensive database editor and UML designer
• Supports multiple build systems
• Test runner UI
• Code coverage
• Git integration
• Supports Google App Engine, Grails, GWT, Hibernate, Java EE, OSGi, Play, Spring, Struts and more
• Deployment and debugging tools for most application servers
• Intelligent text editors for HTML, CSS, and Java
• Integrated version control
• AIR Mobile supports Android and iOS devices

Drawbacks: This IDE comes with a learning curve, so it may not the best for beginners. There are many shortcuts to remember, and some users complain about the clunky UI.

5. Eclipse

Eclipse is a free and flexible open source editor useful for beginners and pros alike. Originally a Java environment, Eclipse now has a wide range of capabilities thanks to a large number of plugins and extensions. In addition to debugging tools and Git/CVS support, the standard edition of Eclipse comes with Java and Plugin Development Tooling. If that's not enough for you, there is plenty of other packages to choose from that include tools for charting, modeling, reporting, testing and building GUIs. The Eclipse Marketplace Client gives users access to a treasure trove of plugins and information supplied by an expanding community of developers.

Languages supported: C, C++, Java, Perl, PHP, Python, Ruby and more

Notable features:

• A plethora of package solutions allowing for multi-language support
• Java IDE enhancements such as hierarchical views of nested projects with customizable perspectives
• Task-focused interface including system-tray notifications
• Automated error reporting
• Tooling options for JEE projects
• JUnit integration

Drawbacks: While Eclipse is very versatile software, the many options may be intimidating to newcomers. Eclipse doesn't have all of the same features as IntelliJ IDEA, but it is open source.

6. Code::Blocks

Code::Blocks is another popular free and open source option. It is a highly customizable IDE that performs consistently across all platforms, so it is great for developers who frequently switch between workspaces. The plug-in framework lets users tweak this IDE to meet their needs.

Languages supported: C, C++, Fortran

Notable features:

• Easy-to-navigate tabbed interface including a list of open files
• Compatible with Linux, Mac, and Windows
• Written in C++
• Requires no interpreted or proprietary languages
• Supports many pre-built and custom-built plugins
• Supports multiple compilers including GCC, MSVC++, clang and more
• Debugger that includes breakpoint support
• Text editor with syntax highlighting and autocomplete
• Customizable external tools
• Simple task management tools ideal for multiple users

Drawbacks: Though Code::Blocks comes with many features, it is a relatively lightweight IDE, so it's not suited for larger projects. It is a great tool for beginners, but advanced coders may be frustrated with the limitations.

7. Aptana Studio 3

Perhaps the most powerful of the open source IDEs, Aptana Studio 3 is a massive improvement over its predecessors. Since Aptana Studio 3 supports most browser specs, compatibility challenges are minimal, so users can quickly develop, test and deploy web apps from this single IDE.

Languages supported: HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, Ruby, Rails, PHP, and Python

Notable features:

• Code assist for CSS, HTML, JavaScript, PHP and Ruby
• Deployment wizard with simple setup and multiple protocols including Capistrano, FTP, FTPS and SFTP
• Automatically sends Ruby and Rails applications to hosting services
• Integrated debuggers for Ruby and Rails and JavaScript
• Git integration
• Easily accessible command line terminal with hundreds of commands
• String custom commands to extend capabilities

Drawbacks: Although Aptana works well for students juggling multiple small projects, it has stability issues and runs slowly, so professional developers might prefer a more powerful IDE.

8. Komodo

Komodo offers a free 21-day trial and costs between $99 - $1615 depending on the edition and licensing. Practically any programmer can use Komodo because it supports most major programming languages. The streamlined interface allows for advanced editing, and small perks like the Syntax Checker and single-step debugging make Komodo one of the most popular IDEs for web and mobile development.

Languages supported: CSS, Go, JavaScript, HTML, NodeJS, PerlPHP, Python, Ruby, Tcl and more.

Notable features:

• Customizable UI including split view and multi-window editing
• Version control integration for Bazaar, CVS, Git, Mercurial, Perforce and Subversion
• Python and PHP code profiling
• Convenient code collaboration for multi-user editing
• Deploy to the cloud thanks to Stackato PaaS
• Graphical debugging for NodeJS, Perl, PHP, Python, Ruby and Tcl
• Autocomplete and refactoring
• Consistent performance across Mac, Linux and Windows platforms
• Many add-ons allow a high level of customization

Drawbacks: One of the few complaints about Komodo is that the free version doesn't enable all of the features, but the premium version is still considered well-worth the cost.

9. RubyMine

RubyMine is another premium IDE, developed by Jet Brains, that offers a 30 day free trial and costs $210 - 687 annually. As its name implies, RubyMine is a favorite among Ruby enthusiasts; however, this IDE supports other programming languages as well. Easy navigation, logical workflow organization, and compatibility with most platforms make RubyMine a workplace favorite.

Languages supported: CoffeeScript, CSS, HAML, HTML, JavaScript, Less, Ruby and Rails, Ruby and Sass

Notable features:

• Code snippets, autocomplete and automatic refactoring
• Project tree allows for quick code analysis
• Rails Models Diagram
• Rails Project View
• RubyMotion allows for iOS development
• Stack support includes Bundler, pik, rbenv, RVM and more
• JavaScript, CoffeeScript and Ruby debuggers
• Integration with CVS, Git, Mercurial, Perforce and Subversion
• Bundled keyboard schemes

Drawbacks: Your machine needs at least 4GB of RAM for RubyMine to run smoothly. Some users also complain about the lack of GUI customization options.

10. Xcode

Xcode IDE is free, open source, and part of Xcode, which is a collection of tools for making apps for Apple devices such as the iPad, iPhone and Mac. Integration with Cocoa Touch makes development in the Apple environment a breeze, and you can enable services such as Game Center or Passbook with a single mouse click. Built-in communication with the developer's website helps users produce fully functioning apps on the fly.

Languages supported: AppleScript, C, C++, Java, Objective-C

Notable features:

• UI controls can be easily connected with implementation code
• Apple LLVM compiler scans code offers advice for addressing performance issues
• Assistant function allows for split-code workspace
• Jump bar permits quick navigation
• Interface Builder lets user build prototypes without writing any code
• UI and source code can be graphically connected to sketch complex interface prototypes in just minutes
• Version Editor includes log files and commit timeline
• Branch and merge for distributed teams
• Test Navigator lets you quickly test applications at any point during development
• Automatically builds, analyzes, tests, and archives projects thanks to Integration with OX X server
• Workflow is highly customizable with Tabs, Behaviors, and Snippets
• Instrument library and asset catalog

Drawbacks: You obviously need an Apple machine to run Xcode, and keep in mind that you need a developers license to upload apps to the Apple Store.

Php Designer

Finding the best IDE for your needs

As you can see, the best IDE for you depends on your operating system, your programming language of choice and which platforms you wish to develop for. Finding the right fit is really an ongoing process. Your options are practically limitless, so it may be helpful to make a list of your preferences and then searching for the IDE that most closely matches your needs. While every developer has their favorite software, don't be afraid to branch out as the world of IDEs is always expanding.

Php Web Page Samples

Did we miss any important IDEs? Let us know in the comments section what your favorite IDE is.

EditRocket, a Text and Source Code Editor with support for over 20 programming languages, includes a powerful PHP editor that strives to make PHP development quick, easy, and enjoyable.

The PHP editor included in EditRocket includes many tools and features to aid in PHP development. See below for information on the PHP specific tools offered by EditRocket.

See the General Highlights section at the bottom of the page for more of what EditRocket has to offer.

PHP Source Code Builder

With EditRocket, there is no longer a need to heft around PHP manuals or sift through PHP API documentation. EditRocket takes care of this for you with the PHP Code Builder. The code builder includes information on the built-in functions contained in the PHP library. The code builder can display all PHP functions, or functions can be broken down into categories such as FileSystem, FTP, MySQL, Socket, etc.

The Code Builder works by allowing users to select a function from the list, and then it displays information for the function such as function signature, description, and version information. The user can copy the function name to the editor, and the function signature will display as a tooltip.

For more information, see the following: PHP Code Builder

PHP Function Completion

With EditRocket, there is no need to memorize the function signatures for the thousands of PHP functions. EditRocket can automatically display the signature after you type a PHP built-in function name and the opening parenthesis. For example, type mysql_connect( into EditRocket and the mysql_connect function signature will be displayed. For more information, see the following: PHP Auto Completion

PHP Sidekick

Code faster with the PHP Sidekick. The PHP Sidekick has tabs for PHP coding inserts, PHP tools, PHP utils, the Tag Navigator tool, and the PHP Function Navigator. The coding inserts tab gives users the ability to quickly enter many common PHP constructs into the text editor with the click of a button, or via customizable keyboard shortcuts. Some examples of code assistant options are control statements such as if, else, while, for, foreach, etc., and common global variables such as GLOBALS, COOKIE, GET, POST, REQUEST, and many more. For more information, see the following: PHP Sidekick

PHP Function Navigator

Easily jump from function to function with the PHP Function Navigator. The navigator parses the editor contents for PHP functions and displays them in a clickable list. Clicking an option from the list takes the user directly to the point in the editor where the function is defined. For more information, see the following: PHP Function Navigator

HTML, JavaScript, and CSS Editors

Best Free Php Ide For Mac Os

EditRocket also provides HTML, JavaScript, and CSS options. See more information here: HTML, JavaScript, and CSS

Show in Web Browser / Web Server Integration

Quickly debug your PHP code with the Show in Web Browser tool. Users can view PHP scripts in the web browser by selecting the File -> Show in Web Browser option. The first time launch of this tool will prompt users to enter the local web server information. EditRocket will then build the appropriate URL, and create temporary files if necessary to diplay the PHP script in the web browser. For more information, see the following: Show in Web Browser

General Highlights

Additional Features

Best Free Php Ide For Machine Learning

• Syntax highlighting for over 20 programming languages
• The programming editor behind RazorSQL, a popular database query tool, since 2004
• File tools such as head, tail, regular expression search, move, copy, and delete
• Customizable and pre-defined code templates
• Works with all major operating systems including Windows, Mac OS X, macOS, Linux, and Solaris.