Android Studio vs IntelliJ IDEA
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
The official Android IDE.
The capable and ergonomic Java IDE.
The verdict
Both Android Studio and IntelliJ IDEA are credible code editors tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Android Studio — The official Android IDE.
Choose IntelliJ IDEA if you'd rather have a higher overall rating (4.7/5). The capable and ergonomic Java IDE.
Android Studio vs IntelliJ IDEA: side by side
| Dimension | Android Studio | IntelliJ IDEA |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Free | Free – $16.90/mo |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Pricing model | Free | Freemium |
| Best for | Android Developers | Developers, Java Teams |
| Platforms | Windows, Mac, Linux | Windows, Mac, Linux |
| Rating | 4.3/5 | 4.7/5Winner |
Android Studio key facts
- Vendor
- Pricing
- Free — Free
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Windows, Mac, Linux
- Best for
- Android Developers
- Editor rating
- 4.3 / 5
- Founded
- 2013
- Headquarters
- Mountain View, CA, USA
IntelliJ IDEA key facts
- Vendor
- JetBrains
- Pricing
- Freemium — Free – $16.90/mo
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Windows, Mac, Linux
- Best for
- Developers, Java Teams
- Editor rating
- 4.7 / 5
- Founded
- 2001
- Headquarters
- Prague, Czechia
Frequently asked questions
Is Android Studio better than IntelliJ IDEA?
Neither is universally better — IntelliJ IDEA edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Android Studio or IntelliJ IDEA cheaper?
Android Studio is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free. Android Studio starts at free; IntelliJ IDEA starts at free – $16.90/mo.
Can Android Studio replace IntelliJ IDEA?
Yes for most teams — both are code editors tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.