Apache NetBeans
Apache NetBeans: A capable cross-platform IDE for free Java, PHP, and web development. Ranked #10 of 65 in Integrated Development Environments by our editors (8.5/10); pricing: Free plan; best for free Java, PHP, and web development.
At a glance
- Editor score8.5 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forFree Java, PHP, and web development
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Founded1996
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free, open-source IDE for Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Integrated editing, debugging, testing, profiling, and refactoring
- Supports Maven, Ant, Gradle, JUnit, and plugin extensions
Where it doesn't
- Remote and container coverage is less extensive than higher-ranked products
- Broader language coverage is centered on Java, PHP, and web technologies
- Desktop installation is required for the integrated development environment
Our verdict on Apache NetBeans
Apache NetBeans is a free, open-source desktop integrated development environment, tooling platform, and application framework. It is aimed at developers working with Java, PHP, JavaScript, HTML5, CSS, and related technologies across Windows, macOS, and Linux. The editor combines syntax-aware and semantic source-code editing with refactoring tools, project wizards, templates, debugging, testing, profiling, and build support. Its free distribution and cross-platform availability make it a practical fit for individual developers and teams seeking a broad desktop IDE without a paid plan.
Development workflow coverage is one of NetBeans' clearest strengths. The integrated debugger supports breakpoints and stepping, while JUnit support covers test creation, execution, and test results. Profiling tools address CPU, memory, and thread behavior, adding analysis beyond editing and compilation. Build workflows include Ant-based clean-and-build support, integrated Maven support, and Gradle compatibility. Plugin extensibility through the NetBeans Plugin Portal also gives the IDE room to adapt to additional project needs, while the integrated Java, PHP, JavaScript, HTML5, and CSS editors keep several common development tasks in one environment.
NetBeans is a strong choice for developers who value free, open-source tooling with Java and web-language support, integrated testing, debugging, profiling, and established build-tool workflows. It is less suitable for teams that prioritize extensive modern remote or container coverage, since those areas are less developed than in higher-ranked IDEs. Buyers looking for a focused desktop environment with broad core development tools should consider Apache NetBeans; teams whose workflows depend heavily on remote or container-based development may prefer an alternative with stronger coverage in those areas.
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Apache NetBeans pricing
Apache NetBeans fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Supported operating systems | Not verified |
| Integrated debugger | Yes |
| Integrated testing tools | Yes |
| Build tools | Yes |
| Project management | Not verified |
| Dev container support | Not verified |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Support | Community, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 4 integrations: Apache Maven, Apache Ant, Gradle, JUnit See all → |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | netbeans.apache.org |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
Apache NetBeans integrations
Apache NetBeans lists 4 integrations on its own site.
- Apache Maven
- Apache Ant
- Gradle
- JUnit
See all Apache NetBeans integrations →
Alternatives to Apache NetBeans
- IntelliJ IDEAA full-featured, cross-platform IDE for Java and Kotlin teams.9.4
- Visual StudioA full-featured Windows IDE for .NET and C++ teams with broad tooling.9.3
- PyCharmA full-featured Python IDE with strong testing, debugging, data, and remote workflows.9.2
See all Apache NetBeans alternatives →
Also Ranked In
Apache NetBeans is ranked in 8 of our directories; the 6 strongest besides Integrated Development Environments.
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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