Visual Studio Code (VS Code) has become one of the most popular code editors among developers due to its speed, flexibility, and extensive ecosystem of extensions. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting out, the right plugins can make a world of difference in your workflow. Here’s a curated list of must-have VS Code extensions to elevate your coding experience.
1. Prettier – Code Formatter
Prettier ensures that your code is consistently formatted, making it easier to read and maintain. It supports multiple languages, including JavaScript, TypeScript, HTML, CSS, and more.
Key Features:
| Automatic formatting on save |
| Customisable formatting rules |
| Seamless integration with ESLint |
Installation Command:
ext install esbenp.prettier-vscode2. ESLint
For JavaScript and TypeScript developers, ESLint is an indispensable tool. It helps catch errors early and enforces coding standards.
Key Features:
| Highlights syntax errors |
| Suggests code fixes |
| Works in tandem with Prettier |
Installation Command:
ext install dbaeumer.vscode-eslint3. GitLens – Git supercharged
GitLens takes Git integration in VS Code to the next level. It provides detailed insights into your codebase’s version control history.
Key Features:
| Blame annotations |
| File history and repository insights |
| Seamless integration with Git commands |
Installation Command:
ext install eamodio.gitlens4. Live Server
Live Server is a must-have for web developers, providing a live preview of your code changes in real-time.
Key Features:
| Auto-refresh browser on file save |
| Support for dynamic content |
| Configurable port settings |
Installation Command:
ext install ritwickdey.liveserver5. Debugger for Chrome
This extension allows you to debug JavaScript code directly in the Chrome browser from VS Code.
Key Features:
| Breakpoints and step-through debugging |
| DOM inspection |
| Works with TypeScript and modern frameworks like React and Angular |
Installation Command:
ext install msjsdiag.debugger-for-chrome6. Material Icon Theme
Enhance your VS Code interface with visually appealing icons that make it easier to identify file types at a glance.
Key Features:
| Thousands of file and folder icons |
| Customizable settings |
| Regular updates |
Installation Command:
ext install pkief.material-icon-theme7. IntelliCode
Microsoft’s IntelliCode extension uses AI to recommend code snippets and improve code completion accuracy.
Key Features:
| AI-powered suggestions |
| Supports multiple languages |
| Learns from your coding patterns |
Installation Command:
ext install VisualStudioExptTeam.vscodeintellicode8. Path Intellisense
Path Intellisense provides intelligent autocomplete for file paths, making imports and references a breeze.
Key Features:
| Autocomplete for relative and absolute paths |
| Works with JavaScript, TypeScript, and other file types |
Installation Command:
ext install christian-kohler.path-intellisense9. REST Client
For API developers, REST Client simplifies the process of sending HTTP requests and testing endpoints directly from VS Code.
Key Features:
| Send GET, POST, PUT, DELETE requests |
| View response headers and body |
| Save and organise requests |
Installation Command:
ext install humao.rest-client10. Bracket Pair Colorizer 2
This extension assigns colors to matching brackets, making it easier to read nested code blocks.
Key Features:
| Customisable colours |
| Works with multiple languages |
| Supports nested brackets |
Installation Command:
ext install coenraads.bracket-pair-colorizer-2Final Thoughts
VS Code’s flexibility lies in its ability to adapt to your workflow through extensions. The plugins listed above cover a wide range of functionalities, from debugging and formatting to version control and aesthetic improvements. Install a few (or all!) and watch your productivity soar.
Are there other VS Code extensions you can’t live without? Share your favorites in the comments below!