Top Linux Code Editors That Could Overtake VS Code in 2023

Interesting code editors that might replace Visual Studio Code as your primary choice in 2023!

In this article we recommend several new, noteworthy Linux code editors, from Lite XL to Pulsar.

To commemorate the release of these new editors, we compiled a list of Linux code editors that could challenge Visual Studio Code's dominance.

1. Pulsar

Pulsar is a community‑led open‑source code editor aiming to replace the famous Atom editor and may eventually challenge Visual Studio Code as it matures.

It uses the same codebase as Atom but with an open‑source backend (implemented via reverse‑engineering) and updated dependencies.

The project plans further improvements soon.

It can be downloaded from the official website, but note that it is still in early development.

2. Atom Community

The Atom Community project emerges from the discontinued Atom editor, intending to inherit its concepts and philosophy.

Its goal is to provide basic functionality comparable to the atom‑ide‑ui package.

It has potential, but in its current form we do not recommend it for new users; its long‑term goals differ slightly from Pulsar, making it another project worth watching.

For adventurous users, you can build it from source.

GitHub announces the deprecation of the Atom editor: https://www.linuxmi.com/github-stop-atom.html

Visual Studio Code vs. Atom: which editor should you use? https://www.linuxmi.com/visual-studio-code-atom.html

3. Lapce

Lapce is a lightweight, fast open‑source code editor built with Rust, focusing on performance and positioned as a possible Visual Studio Code alternative.

Although still early in development, it shows promise.

It offers decent user experience despite being incomplete.

Lapce is available for Linux, macOS, and Windows as a pre‑alpha release.

On Linux, simply download and extract the tar.gz package, then run the Lapce executable via GUI or terminal.

4. Lite XL

Lite XL is an open‑source code editor written in Lua, using only a few megabytes of storage and about 20 MB of RAM (compared to VS Code’s ~550 MB). It is ideal for those seeking a minimalist editor.

You can obtain it from the official website, which receives regular updates, and you can expect continued support throughout 2023.

If you prefer a minimalistic code editor, Lite XL might be the perfect choice.