10 Must-Have VS Code Extensions for Developers in 2024
Looking for the best VS Code extensions to boost productivity? Here are 10 must-have extensions that every developer should install—from code formatting with Prettier to debugging with GitLens and testing APIs with REST Client. These tools will streamline your workflow, improve code quality, and save hours of manual work.
1. Prettier – Automate Code Formatting
Prettier ensures consistent code formatting across your projects, eliminating style debates and manual adjustments. It supports JavaScript, TypeScript, CSS, HTML, and more, automatically formatting code on save.
Why Use Prettier?
- No More Style Conflicts – Enforces a unified code style.
- Multi-Language Support – Works with popular web dev languages.
- Save Time – Formats code instantly with keyboard shortcuts.
// Before
const user = {name:"John", age:30};
// After
const user = {
name: "John",
age: 30,
}; 2. ESLint – Catch Errors Early
ESLint detects syntax errors, enforces coding standards, and prevents bugs in JavaScript/TypeScript. It integrates with Prettier for seamless linting and formatting.
Key Benefits:
- Bug Prevention – Flags issues before they reach production.
- Custom Rules – Configure via
.eslintrcfor team consistency. - Prettier Compatibility – Works alongside Prettier for cleaner code.
3. Live Server – Real-Time Front-End Preview
Live Server launches a local dev server with auto-refresh for HTML, CSS, and JavaScript files. Perfect for rapid prototyping and instant feedback.
Why It’s Essential:
- No Manual Refreshing – Browser updates on save.
- Custom Ports – Adjust settings for your environment.
- Faster Iteration – Test changes in real time.
4. GitLens – Supercharge Git Workflows
GitLens enhances Git in VS Code with blame annotations, commit history, and branch comparisons—all without leaving the editor.
Top Features:
- Inline Blame – See who edited a line and when.
- Commit Insights – Explore changes directly in files.
- Branch Comparisons – Diff branches effortlessly.
5. Bracket Pair Colorizer 2 – Simplify Nested Code
Color-coded brackets make complex nested structures easier to read, reducing errors in loops and conditionals.
Why It Helps:
- Visual Clarity – Match brackets instantly.
- Custom Colors – Adapt to your theme.
- Multi-Language Support – Works across languages.
6. REST Client – Test APIs Without Leaving VS Code
Send HTTP requests directly from VS Code, replacing tools like Postman.
Example Request:
GET https://api.example.com/data
Authorization: Bearer token123 7. Path Intellisense – Autocomplete File Paths
Avoid typos in imports with auto-complete for file paths, including @ alias support.
Key Perks:
- Faster Imports – No more manual path typing.
- Alias Support – Cleaner project references.
- Wide Language Coverage – Works with JS, TS, and more.
8. Docker – Manage Containers Effortlessly
Build, run, and debug Docker containers from VS Code, with support for Docker Compose.
Why Use It?
- Integrated Terminal – Run commands without switching apps.
- Log Access – Debug containers in real time.
- Compose Support – Simplify multi-container setups.
9. Code Runner – Execute Snippets Instantly
Run code in Python, Java, C++, and others directly in VS Code’s terminal.
Why Developers Love It:
- Quick Testing – Validate snippets on the fly.
- Custom Commands – Tailor execution per language.
- Built-In Output – Results appear in the terminal.
10. Remote – SSH – Develop on Remote Servers
Edit files and debug on remote machines as if they were local, with full VS Code functionality.
Key Advantages:
- No File Transfers – Edit remotely in real time.
- Native SSH Integration – Skip standalone clients.
- Full Feature Support – Retain all VS Code tools.
“Efficiency is doing better what is already being done. With the right VS Code extensions, you’re not just coding—you’re coding smarter.”
#VSCode #DeveloperTools #Coding #Productivity #WebDev