28 Best VS Code Extensions For 2025

With the shift in technology trends, the way we build and develop applications has changed significantly. To achieve long-term success, it’s essential to simplify your programming requirements. Visual Studio Code is widely regarded as one of the best IDEs for web development and is favored by developers around the world.

During programming, developers often rely on extensions to enhance their workflow. The VS Code Marketplace offers thousands of extensions, with new ones being added regularly. These VS Code extensions can streamline your tasks, boost efficiency, and reduce repetitive work.

What Is a VS Code Extension?

A VS Code extension is an add-on that boosts the capabilities of your Visual Studio Code editor. These extensions can introduce new features, enhance existing ones, or connect VS Code to other tools and services. They allow you to personalize your development environment, making it better suited to your programming style, language preferences, and workflow.

Using extensions can really level up your coding game. Here are some key benefits:

• Customize Your Setup:Customize VS Code to fit your unique development needs, languages, and personal preferences.
• Boost Productivity:Automate repetitive tasks, optimize workflows, and speed up your coding with built-in tools.
• Expand Features: Add support for new languages, frameworks, debuggers, and version control systems.
• Improve Code Quality: Enhance your code with features like linting, formatting, and real-time error detection.
• Stay Up-to-Date: Easily integrate with the latest tools and technologies, keeping your workflow aligned with modern trends.

Let us try and understand the best VS Code extensions you need to watch out for in 2025, considering the rich features and capabilities. This will help you to decide which VS Code code extension is the right choice for you based on your budget and project requirements:

Best VS Code Extensions for 2025

Here are the top VS Code extensions that leading technology brands use all around the globe.

Let us discuss each of these best VS Code extensions in more detail so that you can make an informed decision in choosing the ones best suited for your development requirements.

1. LambdaTest VS Code Extension

LambdaTest is an AI-native test execution platform that enables you to run both manual and automated tests at scale across 5000+ browsers, 10,000+ real devices, and multiple OS combinations.

The LambdaTest VS Code extension brings the power of this testing platform directly into your development workflow. It allows you to perform real-time cross-browser testing of public or locally hosted websites and web applications, without leaving the VS Code Editor.

With this extension, you can instantly trigger live-interactive testing sessions, eliminating the need for complex setups, thanks to its seamless integration of cloud-based infrastructure directly into your development environment.

Below are the key features of LambdaTest VS Code Extension, one of the best VS Code extensions

• Run mobile web tests from within VS Code using Android emulators, Android emulators for Mac, iPhones, and iOS simulators (for iPhone and iPad)
• Perform geolocation testing across multiple browsers and device configurations.
• Log UI bugs directly during test sessions using the “Mark as Bug” feature.
• Use the built-in issue tracker to manage and organize reported bugs seamlessly.

For a full walkthrough and complete setup on how to test public or locally hosted web apps, follow our support documentation on the LambdaTest VS Code Extension.

You can also subscribe to the LambdaTest YouTube Channel for the latest topics around other extensions such as accessibility extension, and more.

2. Live Server

Live Server is another popular choice that helps you launch a local development server with a live reload feature for static and dynamic pages. You can easily manage and track your code changes because every time the code changes are saved, the changes are instantly reflected in the browser. This allows you to spot errors or issues and easily experiment with your code.

Below are the key features of Live Server, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• You can start or stop the server with a single click from the status bar.
• Support for quick development using a live server.
• Hotkey control.
• Support for excluding files for change detection.

3. Remote – SSH

Remote – SSH extension allows you to create your development environment using the dual combination of any remote machine with an SSH server. This helps you to simplify the development or troubleshooting processes in different scenarios. The source code is not required for your local machine as this extension directly executes commands and other required dependencies on the remote machine.

Below are the key features of Remote – SSH, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• Debug an application running somewhere else on the customer setup or cloud.
• You can quickly swap between remote environments with the required updates without impacting the local machine.
• Access the existing development environment using multiple locations or machines.

4. Peacock

Peacock is one of the best VS code extensions that allows you to change the color of the Visual Studio code environment or workspace. This is helpful when you are working with multiple VS code instances and want to identify the instance you are currently working with.

Below are the key features of Peacock, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• Use your preferred colors to quickly distinguish each of your Visual Studio Code instances.
• When you utilize the remote integration features, your Visual Studio Code editor will have a distinctive color.
• Color your Visual Studio Code editor uniquely when you are in a Live Share session as a Guest or a Host.

5. Snippets

Snippets is the best VS Code extension for improving your productivity in the long run. Snippets provide a collection of various extensions for the commonly used programming languages. The React Snippet is the most commonly used extension nowadays.

Below are the key features of Snippets, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• Works out of the box with zero configuration.
• Detects programming language Automatically from the current editor window.
• Makes it easier to enter repeating codes.

6. CSS Peek

CSS Peek has been helpful to front-end developers in improvising the way development requirements are handled. You can manage pull requests in your IDE and perform code reviews with complete source-tree context. This allows you to navigate directly to the right CSS code if you know the class or ID name.

Below are the key features of CSS Peek, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• You can go through the CSS definition and symbol in the workspace with just a few simple clicks.
• The symbol provider option is also provided.
• You are flexible to comment on any line.

7. Prettier

Prettier extension is all about spending less time formatting your code so that you can focus entirely on delivering your coding requirements. This is what this extension helps to achieve. The formatting issues are automatically fixed in your code, such as double quotes or semicolons issues encountered repeatedly.

It is a formatter that helps to keep the code styling consistent. It also gives you the flexibility to configure the settings according to your requirements and save them using shortcuts so that you can revisit the settings when needed.

Below are the key features of Prettier, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• You can easily install this extension without too many hassles.
• It ensures that every code adheres to a uniform style and removes all original styling.
• Prettier uses your code and recreates it from scratch while considering many lines.

8. Relative Path

It is always challenging to locate or get the relative path to any file in your workspace. This is no more a problem with the Relative Path as VS Code extension. It also allows you to write import statements. Instead of searching for the file location, you only need the file name; this extension does the rest by providing the relative path from the current location to that target file.

Below are the key features of Relative Path, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• Improve search performance when you switch to a file from a different folder.
• Simply Press Ctrl+Shift+H (Mac: Cmd+Shift+H) and start typing the file you want.

9. vscode-icons

vscode-icons allow you to create descriptive icons to categorize between files and folders easily. This extension helps to make code more visually appealing so that it is easier for teams to work in close collaboration. This means you can always come back after some time and concentrate on your code with undivided attention, resulting in a great end-user experience.

Below are the key features of vscode-icons, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• The extension allows you to change how the icons look or even what icons are associated with each extension.
• Automatically determine the kind of project you have active in your workspace and switch the icons accordingly.
• Custom Configuration.

10. GitLens

GitLens taps into the full power of Git, offering developers an enhanced experience within Visual Studio Code. It simplifies managing multiple versions of your code, which is especially helpful when working with complex project requirements.

By integrating Git functionality directly into VS Code, GitLens allows you to easily visualize your code’s history. This makes it easier to understand who made changes, why those changes were made, and when they occurred. Additionally, you can explore the evolution of the codebase, giving you deeper insight into its development.

Below are the key features of GitLens, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• Highly customized extension where you can turn off a particular setting if not needed.
• Current line blame annotation is displayed at the end of the line.
• Status bar blame annotation showing the commit and author detail.

11. Import Cost

The Import Cost extension comes in handy when you are trying to handle size requirements related to your import package. It shows the estimated size of the imported package, shown inline in the editor. This allows the developers to avoid potential issues or problems as they can easily track the size of added dependencies.

Below are the key features of Import Cost, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• Default importing capabilities.
• Entire content importing.
• Selective importing.
• Submodule importing.

12. Markdown All in One

Markdown All in One enhances the Markdown capabilities with Visual Studio Code. VS Code provides Markdown support out of the box. Markdown is commonly used across different technical domains, and this extension is crucial in improving overall productivity and speed.

Below are the key features of Markdown All in One, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• Provide easy-to-use shortcuts for altering text and adding things.
• Auto-preview of the content.
• Syntax autocomplete.
• Easier to add lists and bullets to the code.

13. JavaScript Code Snippets

JavaScript (ES6) code snippets are useful for the VS Code Editor. Both JavaScript and TypeScript are supported. To install this extension, you can launch the Command Palette and install the JavaScript (ES6) code snippets to use them going forward.

Other code snippets for flavors, such as Angular, are readily available in the market. You can use JavaScript code snippets to improve the overall developer experience in the long run.

Below are the key features of JavaScript Code Snippets, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• Finding a particular object in a collection of objects is simple.
• Looping through the keys and values of an object.
• You can assign keys to an object with the same name.

14. GraphQL

The GraphQL extension has grown in popularity and implementation in the last few years.

This is suggested by the fact that over half a million downloads were done in the VS Code marketplace, which shows the immense potential this extension has to offer the developer ecosystem. This plugin is supported by the GraphQL foundation, which means that the support and latest implementation are handled perfectly.

Below are the key features of GraphQL, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• Helps to enhance the overall developer experience.
• Perform schema validation.
• Support graphql-config files with one or multiple projects.
• Syntax highlighting.
• Autocomplete suggestions.

15. Tabnine

Tabnine is a unique AI-powered code completion extension that helps to increase overall productivity. Tabnine’s free version is ideal for junior developers working alone in a big team. Tabnine Pro is an advanced version that offers advanced AI code completion for professional developers. You can install Tabnine directly from the VS Code Marketplace.

Below are the key features of Tabnine, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• Uses Machine Learning technology which is the future going forward.
• Provides support with all the languages.
• It helps to improve work productivity which has a great business impact in the long run.

16. TODO Highlight

When you work with real-world scenarios, there are times when you write TODO or fixes within your code that you need to address. But those were not handled as it is not uniquely highlighted in the code itself.

The TODO Highlight extension is trying to solve this. It helps to make your TODOs stand out so that you can identify and address them at your convenience.
You can toggle the highlights and can list all the highlighted annotations. This reminds the user that things still need to be done before the code is pushed to the production environment.

Below are the key features of TODO Highlight, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• Support for different color themes for easier identification of TODOs
• You can customize the keywords (TODO, FIXME) based on your requirements
• The annotations that are listed can be displayed in a separate file.

17. Regex Previewer

Managing and writing regular expressions has been a problem for many software developers who work with complex projects. It becomes much more confusing to get things right the first time. This is why this plugin has recently gained a lot of acceptance from the developer community.

The Regex Previewer is about making your regular expressions perfect by providing a side document matching the regex expression. The extension offers multiple examples of writing a regex for different use cases.

Below are the key features of Regex Previewer, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• The side-by-side document can be turned on or off based on your flexibility.
• You can also add global and multiline options for evaluating with the side document.

18. Bookmarks

The Bookmarks extension enhances navigation in VS Code by allowing you to add, manage, and jump between bookmarks in your code. This makes it easier to track important lines, revisit key sections, and switch between locations quickly—especially useful in large files or while debugging.

Below are the key features of Bookmarks, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• Virtual Workspace support.
• Technical support for any queries or questions.
• Dedicated sidebar.
• Mark or unmark positions in the code.
• Mark positions and give them a name in the code for easier identification.

19. Auto Rename Tag

This extension is especially useful when working with deeply nested components or complex HTML/JSX structures. With Auto Rename Tag, updating the opening tag will automatically rename the corresponding closing tag, helping you save time and avoid errors. It’s available on the VS Code Marketplace.

Below are the key features of Auto Rename Tag, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• Helps reduce development efforts significantly.
• Well suited for projects where a lot of opening and closing tags are involved.
• Performs the same functionality as Visual Studio IDE.

20.GitHub Copilot

GitHub Copilot is an invaluable VS Code extension revolutionizing code development. Seamlessly integrated, Copilot intelligently generates code suggestions as you type, leveraging machine learning to comprehend context and provide instant snippets.

Below are the key features of GitHub Copilot, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• Swift Code Generation: GitHub Copilot accelerates coding with its swift generation of accurate, context-aware code snippets.
• Diverse Language Support: Copilot supports a wide array of programming languages, making it versatile for developers working on various projects.
• Enhanced Productivity: By automating coding tasks, Copilot streamlines the development process, allowing developers to focus on higher-level problem-solving.

21.ChatGPT Helper

ChatGPT Helper is a powerful VS Code extension that allows developers to seamlessly interact with OpenAI’s GPT-3.5 or GPT-4 models directly within the editor. It enables you to debug, explain, or ask questions about your code without switching contexts. All you need is an OpenAI API key—no ChatGPT Plus subscription required.

Below are the key features of ChatGPT, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• Ask GPT-3.5 or GPT-4 why selected code isn’t working.
• Get code explanations by selecting code and triggering the explain command.
• Ask free-form questions via the Command Palette.
• Works with GPT-3.5 and GPT-4 using your OpenAI API key.
• No ChatGPT Plus subscription required.
• Responses appear in a new tab for easy review.

22.Docker

Docker, a game-changing VS Code extension, simplifies package management with precision. Analogous to Import Cost, Docker’s streamlined interface estimates the space utilization of your containerized applications right in the editor.

This intuitive feature ensures developers stay within size constraints, preventing unforeseen issues. Docker excels with default, content, selective, and submodule importing, promoting seamless integration.

Below are the key features of Docker, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• Docker optimizes your workflow, encapsulating applications for consistency across environments.
• Inline size estimations empower developers to gauge resource requirements, fostering proactive decision-making.
• From base images to specific components, Docker’s importing capabilities cater to diverse development needs.
• Docker supports collaborative coding by encapsulating dependencies, ensuring a consistent environment for teams.

23.Excel Viewer

Excel Viewer for VS Code – a crucial tool simplifying data analysis. This extension allows seamless viewing of Excel files within the editor, streamlining the workflow for developers. Easily navigate through sheets and cells, enhancing code comprehension and debugging. The “Excel Viewer” extension supports various Excel features, ensuring accurate representation of data directly in your coding environment.

Below are the key features of Excel Viewer, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• Seamlessly integrates with VS Code, eliminating the need for external applications.
• Instantly reflects changes made to the Excel file, facilitating dynamic data analysis.
• Simplifies collaboration by allowing developers to view and manipulate Excel data directly within the coding environment.

24.Git History

Git History extension proves invaluable for developers by seamlessly integrating with VS Code. It offers a streamlined view of a project’s Git history, facilitating efficient code navigation. This extension provides a comprehensive overview of commit details, file changes, and commit messages directly within the editor.

Below are the key features of Git History, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• Git History simplifies the visualization of commit evolution, aiding developers in understanding project progression effortlessly.
• Swiftly move between commits and branches, enhancing the overall coding experience.
• Obtain vital information such as commit messages and file changes directly within the VS Code interface, promoting a more informed development process.

25.Settings Sync

Settings Sync is a must-have VS Code extension for streamlined development. This invaluable tool facilitates seamless synchronization of your VS Code settings across multiple devices, ensuring a consistent and efficient coding experience. With its user-friendly interface, Settings Sync simplifies the process of replicating preferences, keybindings, and extensions, saving precious time and effort.

Below are the key features of Settings Sync, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• Simplify your workspace setup by effortlessly replicating settings on various devices.
• Seamlessly integrate with version control systems, safeguarding your configurations for collaborative projects.
• Instantly recreate your personalized environment, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity.

26.Code Runner

Code Runner is an indispensable VS Code extension designed for seamless code execution within the editor. Boasting default importing capabilities, it enables the execution of code with efficiency and ease. This extension supports entire content importing, allowing developers to run complete code files effortlessly. Additionally, “Code Runner” facilitates selective importing, enabling users to execute specific portions of code for targeted testing. Its submodule importing feature further enhances functionality, providing a comprehensive testing environment.

A few compelling reasons why “Code Runner” stands out among VS Code extensions include its user-friendly interface, swift code execution, and versatile testing options. This extension streamlines the coding process, making it an essential tool for developers seeking a powerful and efficient coding experience.

Below are the key features of Code Runner, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• Run code snippets or entire files directly within the editor.
• Supports multiple programming languages like Python, JavaScript, C++, and more.
• Execute selected code for targeted testing and debugging.
• Customize output settings and environment variables.
• Quick and easy keyboard shortcuts for faster execution.
• Displays output in an integrated VS Code terminal or output window.
• Lightweight and fast, with minimal setup required.

27. Polacode

Polacode is a must-have VS Code extension that elevates your code presentation. This tool captures your code snippets with a sleek, customizable aesthetic, resembling a screenshot but tailored for code sharing.

With Polacode, you can effortlessly showcase your code’s elegance in a visually appealing manner, making it ideal for presentations, documentation, or social media posts. Its simplicity and versatility make it a favorite among developers.

Below are the key features of Polacode, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• Polacode adds a professional touch to your code snapshots, enhancing their visual appeal.
• The extension allows for customization, letting you choose themes and tweak settings to suit your preferred style.
• Polacode simplifies the sharing of code snippets across various platforms, fostering effective communication within the developer community.

28. Code Spell Checker

Code Spell Checker is an essential VS Code extension that enhances your coding experience. Seamlessly integrated into the editor, it diligently checks and corrects spelling errors, ensuring clean and error-free code. This extension is invaluable for developers striving for precision, as it helps catch typographical mistakes that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Below are the key features of Code Spell Checker, one of the best VS Code extensions:

• Ensures your code is free from spelling errors, enhancing code readability.
• Provides context-aware suggestions for technical terms and programming jargon.
• Allows users to add custom terms or exclude certain words, tailoring the spell-checking experience to individual preferences.

Conclusion

We explored some of the best VS Code extensions set to make a significant impact in 2025. With a wide range of options available, choosing the right extension depends heavily on your specific needs and development workflow.

Before deciding, it’s important to consider key factors like productivity, developer experience, collaboration tools, feature set, language-specific support, and how well the extension handles formatting and debugging. The choice ultimately depends on what aligns best with your organization’s goals and objectives.

Among the available options, the LambdaTest VS Code extension stands out for how quickly it has reshaped the developer ecosystem. Still, the best choice is the one that integrates smoothly into your daily workflow and enhances the way you build, test, and collaborate.