7 Top IDEs for Android Development in 2024

Back in the day, everything had to be typed in by hand using a simple text editor that didn't have built-in debuggers or continuous text analysis to show syntax mistakes right away.

You can still make and develop web or mobile software in such a basic way, but nowadays we have many modern IDEs that make our jobs easier. To do a good job developing software, you should pick the proper IDE for the job and use it correctly. To make this a little easier for you, we've listed the top 7 Android IDEs for Android app development. 

#1 Android Studio

The official integrated development environment (IDE) for Android development, Android Studio, has the support of both Google and JetBrains. It has been the go-to framework for Android developers since its launch in 2013. Android Studio's smart code editor includes sophisticated capabilities like automatic code completion and real-time audit.

An Android emulator is one of many features supported by the IDE, which also works with popular version control platforms like GitHub and Git. Plus, it is compatible with languages like C++ and Kotlin. Many programmers choose Android Studio since it is free for all forms of application.

Pros

• Provides an advanced code editor and other resources for Android app developers.
• Offers a streamlined environment with a wealth of features for creating apps.
• Smart code editor with built-in support for refactoring and sophisticated code completion.
• Powerful debugging capabilities for all app layers

Cons

• It may be demanding on system resources, requiring a powerful PC for optimal performance.
• The learning curve is somewhat severe for newcomers.

#2 Visual Studio + Xamarin

Xamarin is an open-source mobile app framework that you may download for free and use. Among many other platforms, it is used for developing native and hybrid Android applications in C#. On the other hand, Visual Studio is where most C# developers choose to write their code.

When combined together, Xamarin and Visual Studio create an effective Android development environment. Thanks to the tight integration between Visual Studio and Xamarin, developers of mobile apps may now easily share a large chunk of code across different platforms.

An interface builder that allows you to prototype user interfaces without writing any code, interaction with Git, a TDDE, and support for several platforms are all notable characteristics of this combo.

Pros

• Because of its tight integration with the Microsoft environment, it provides Windows users with powerful programming tools.
• developer interface builder that lets them create a working prototype of a user interface without actually coding it.
• Git integration
• Compatible with different platforms

Cons

• Compared to Android Studio, the Android programming experience is lacking.
• In some cases, it needs a lot of resources to do the job

#3 Eclipse

The Eclipse Foundation now runs Eclipse, the powerful software for Android application development, which was originally created by IBM. Its compatibility with more than a hundred languages makes it a top choice among Android developers.

Eclipse isn't only for Android, but it's a robust and flexible IDE with features including support for Gradle, connectivity with version control software, and a large library of plugins to expand its capability. Eclipse's versatility makes it a good fit for platforms other than Android, which is one of its main selling points. A notable example is the Eclipse Emulator, an iOS game emulator for retro game lovers.

Pros

• Offers support for a variety of programming languages.
• Its extensive feature set and plugin ecosystem have made it popular.
• A variety of plugins are available to enhance the functionality of IDEs.
• It has a tool that checks syntax and completes code

Cons

• Not all advanced features are available.
• Some people may think the UI is obsolete.

#4 IntelliJ IDEA

You may create Android apps with the help of IntelliJ IDEA, an IDE that comes with a stylish UI. This smart code editor is compatible with the Android SDKs for Kotlin, Java, and Scala.

Any Android app development company can use this IDE while creating responsive and adaptable Android applications. IntelliJ's robust integrated tools, superior support for JavaScript, and related technologies make it easy to build robust Android applications.

Pros

• It offers a robust debugger for Java programs.
• The documentation is both clear and comprehensive.
• It is compatible with a number of languages.
• There is seldom any corruption or delay.

Cons

• In comparison to the Ultimate edition, the free version lacks several features.
• It may use a lot of resources, just like Android Studio.
• Because you have to move to a separate tool if you want to work with languages other than Java or Scala, this one may not be good for front-end programmers.

#5 AIDE

With AIDE, you can build native Android applications on your Android phone or tablet. Even novice programmers can learn to code like an expert by following interactive courses. On top of its stylish visual design, it features auto code completion, real-time analysis, and refactoring.

If you want to learn how to code in Java or create Android apps, AIDE has you covered with its interactive tutorials and detailed instructions. Keyboards can connect to it via Bluetooth, making typing easier. You can isolate a certain section of code with the help of smart syntax.

Pros

• Allows for offline development on Android smartphones.
• In addition to interactive programming training, it supports languages such as Java and C++.
• Helps developers discover problems as they happen and improve the integrity of code using real-time error detection.
• Helps with refactoring and other important tasks, which makes the development process easier.

Cons

• Compared to IDEs that run on desktop computers, the UI could be a little confusing.
• Limited in comparison to other IDEs that provide comprehensive features.

#6 DroidScript

With this lightweight Android IDE, you won't need an internet connection or the cloud to get things done. Anywhere is a possible workplace for you, making this one of the best app development software on this list. Featuring powerful coding and a plethora of features, this IDE is designed to make developers' lives easier and more efficient. It is one of the top Android app development tools due to DroidScript's simplicity in making mobile applications.

Connecting a personal computer and a mobile device is as easy as developing an IDE that runs in a web browser. This means you can execute code while using a full-size keyboard and screen. DroidScript is an easy-to-download Android integrated development environment (IDE) built on the Java platform.

DroidScript is great for beginning users and offers a ton of tutorials to get you up and running. A large number of plugins and extensions are also available for usage by advanced users.

Pros

• Provides a solid foundation for newcomers and simplifies the development process.
• It enables device-specific development for Android.

Cons

• Compared to full-featured, professional IDEs, it lacks power and flexibility.
• For complex uses, it may not be the best choice.

#7 Cordova

As an Android IDE, Cordova is a potent Android app developer program for creating hybrid web apps. The native Android Webview may be used in conjunction with HTML and CSS code. Cordova may be enhanced with a number of plugins that bring new features. For instance, it allows you to use the phone camera, mic, and other parts.

Cordova is compatible with a number of OSes, much like the other IDEs on this list. But, coding proficiency isn't enough to use Cordova; you also need to know how to work with Android Studio and Java Development Kit.

Pros

• Create Android applications with JavaScript, HTML, and CSS.
• Cordova offers compatibility with several platforms.
• Seamless integration with other advanced tools and plugins

Cons

• Applications that rely heavily on graphics may have performance issues.
• Problems could arise when UI widgets are not accessible.

How to Choose the Right IDE for Android Development

Picking the right IDE can have a big effect on how quickly and easily you can create apps for Android. Given the wide variety of possibilities, it is important to carefully analyze many variables in order to choose the best one for your needs. If you need help deciding, here are five things to keep in mind:

Focus on the Features You Need

For development to go smoothly, you need features that cover all bases. The IDE's compatibility with important Android modules and frameworks, code refactoring assistance, and code completion are crucial aspects that you should analyze. If you can’t find all the necessary features for your specific needs, it may be one of the signs your company needs customizable software. 

Reliability is Key

If you want to manage complicated projects without performance problems, you need an IDE that is strong and reliable. To make sure the IDE can manage big codebases without crashing or acting up, test it out.

A Simple UI

Android developers can get a lot more done if the UI is well-designed and easy to use. Analyze the interface design, navigation, and personalization choices of the IDEA. Make sure it's simple to use and has a streamlined interface that makes all project files, features, and instructions easy to find.

Supportive Community

Android developers really benefit from a strong and welcoming community. Investigate the IDE's online support resources, including forums, guides, and tutorials. Look for helpful, knowledgeable, and committed community members who could improve the IDE.

Multi-Platform Support

Check that the IDE works with your OS and can connect with other IDEs without any hitches. Make sure the IDE you're considering is compatible with other essential applications before you choose it. This includes top code versioning systems, solutions for managing mobile devices, and more.

FAQs

What is the best language to create Android apps?

While Java has long served as Android's official language, Kotlin's cutting-edge capabilities and user-friendliness have made it a popular alternative among developers. Native app development using C++ or C# is another excellent option, and Python is ideal for scripting and quick prototyping.

What is the fastest language for Android development?

For quite some time, developers have turned to C++, a powerful coding language, while creating apps for mobile devices. It's an effective language for making applications that run on iOS and Android. C++ is a performance-optimized language, which is one of its primary benefits. It is also quick and efficient.

How to make Android apps without draining my budget?

Although no software for Android application development is free, you can certainly manage the expenses by having a clear idea of what you want and the features that fulfil that purpose. In most cases, it’s better to find a team that can build you a custom-made Android app, with specific features that you need. That way, you only pay for what you use. 

How long does it take to learn app development?

Simplilearn, a worldwide learning platform, estimates that it might take anything from three months to four years to become proficient in Android app development. Plus, it doesn't matter if you found DIY app builders that don't need any programming knowledge at all.

Is programming in Android still worth it in 2024?

As long as smartphones are around, Android will certainly play a massive role in the market, meaning that quality Android apps are always needed. You just need to know how to find the best app development software for your needs. If you need more help with that, you can always contact LANARS team experts for more info.