Head-to-head · Integrated Development Environment Ide Software
CLion vs Apache NetBeans
CLion leads on 0 checks, Apache NetBeans on 0, and 2 are even. Who comes out ahead on the 2 yes/no, price and count checks where we have data for both products. The editor score weighs everything else too.
Our verdict
- Highest scoreCLion · 9.2/10
- Free planboth
- Free trialonly CLion
CLion scores higher on our rubric for integrated development environment ide software: 9.2 against 9.0 out of 10; our editors rank them #3 and #5.
CLion is the better fit for C and C++ developers needing advanced tooling. Apache NetBeans is the better fit for teams wanting a free, extensible multi-language IDE.
- CLion fits best
C and C++ developers needing advanced tooling
- Apache NetBeans fits best
Teams wanting a free, extensible multi-language IDE
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Side by side
| Feature | CLion 9.2/10 Visit ↗ | Apache NetBeans 9.0/10 Visit ↗ |
|---|---|---|
| At a glance | ||
| Editor score | 9.2 | 9.0 |
| Ranking | #3 in Integrated Development Environment Ide Software | #5 in Integrated Development Environment Ide Software |
| Best for | C and C++ developers needing advanced tooling | Teams wanting a free, extensible multi-language IDE |
| Pricing model | Free plan + paid | Free |
| Starting price | — | Free plan |
| Free plan | ✓ | ✓ |
| Free trial | 30 days | — |
| Deployment | Desktop | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Support | Tickets, Community, Docs | Community, Docs |
| Integrations | 20 integrations | 4 integrations |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise | Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise |
| Features CLion 1/4 · Apache NetBeans 1/4 | ||
| Integrated debugger | ✓ | ✓ |
| Version control support | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| AI coding assistance | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Live collaboration | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Specs | ||
| Deployment | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Supported languages | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Our review | ||
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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| Our verdict | CLion is JetBrains’ desktop IDE for C and C++ development, aimed at developers who want code assistance, build tools, debugging, and testing in one environment. It runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux. A non-commercial license offers the… Read the review → |
Apache NetBeans is a free, open-source desktop IDE and development platform for Java, PHP, JavaScript, HTML5, CSS, and other technologies. It is suited to solo developers and teams across company sizes that want a multi-language… Read the review → |
Strengths and trade-offs
CLion — where it wins
- Supports CMake, Makefiles, Gradle, Meson, and compilation databases
- Combines GDB and LLDB debugging with multiple unit-testing frameworks
- Offers Docker, Dev Container, remote, and embedded workflows
Where it doesn't
- The free non-commercial license is restricted to qualifying use
- Commercial plans split by individual or organization and monthly or annual billing
- Its focus on C and C++ may not suit developers seeking a general-purpose IDE
Apache NetBeans — where it wins
- Includes refactoring, debugging, JUnit testing, and profiling tools
- Supports Maven, Ant, and Gradle build workflows
- Runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux with plugin extensibility
Where it doesn't
- Desktop-only deployment does not suit browser-based workflows
- Its feature set is less broad than some higher-ranked IDE choices
- Support is through community resources and documentation
- CLion9.2/10 · Free plan · 30-day trial
Deep C/C++ tooling across local, container, remote, and embedded workflows.
Visit JetBrainsFull verdict → - Apache NetBeans9.0/10 · Free plan
A multi-language IDE with editing, debugging, testing, profiling, and build support.
Try Apache NetBeansFull verdict →
More comparisons
All integrated development environment ide software comparisons → · Full ranking →
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Last updated · How we research and update