Ruff review
Free Python linting and formatting with more than 900 built-in rules.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Ruff is an open-source Python linter and code formatter for developers and teams. It checks Python files with the ruff check command, automatically fixes supported violations, and formats Python code. Its focus suits Python projects that want linting and formatting in one tool, particularly teams working across Windows, macOS, or Linux.
The feature set covers both everyday editing and automated checks. Ruff provides more than 900 built-in lint rules, including rules for unused imports, docstring formatting, and type-annotation rewrites. Configuration works through pyproject.toml, ruff.toml, and .ruff.toml. Language Server Protocol integration supports editor workflows, while Jupyter Notebook linting and formatting extends coverage beyond standard Python files. Integrations include VS Code, Neovim, Vim, Helix, Kate, Sublime Text, PyCharm, Emacs, TextMate, Zed, pre-commit, and Docker. GitHub Actions and GitLab CI/CD integrations also support automated project checks.
Ruff is free and open source, with no paid tier required for the listed linting and formatting capabilities. It also supports security rules and automatic fixes, but custom lint rules and third-party plugins are not supported. That makes Ruff a strong fit for teams comfortable with its built-in rule set and Python-only scope. Teams needing custom rule authoring, third-party plugin support, or linting across multiple programming languages should choose a different tool or use Ruff alongside another solution.
Ruff pros and cons
- Where it wins
- More than 900 built-in lint rules
- Automatic fixes and built-in Python formatting
- Editor, notebook, CI, pre-commit, and Docker integrations
- Where it doesn't
- Focused on Python rather than multiple languages
- Custom lint rules are not supported
- Third-party plugins are not supported
Ruff fact sheet, pricing and score →
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