IntelliJ IDEA vs PyCharm
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
The capable and ergonomic Java IDE.
The verdict
Both IntelliJ IDEA and PyCharm are credible code editors tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
IntelliJ IDEA — The capable and ergonomic Java IDE.
PyCharm — The Python IDE for professional developers.
IntelliJ IDEA vs PyCharm: side by side
| Dimension | IntelliJ IDEA | PyCharm |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Free – $16.90/mo | Free – $12.90/mo |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Pricing model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Best for | Developers, Java Teams | Python Developers |
| Platforms | Windows, Mac, Linux | Windows, Mac, Linux |
| Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.7/5 |
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
PyCharm key facts
- Vendor
- JetBrains
- Pricing
- Freemium — Free – $12.90/mo
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Windows, Mac, Linux
- Best for
- Python Developers
- Editor rating
- 4.7 / 5
- Founded
- 2010
- Headquarters
- Prague, Czechia
Frequently asked questions
Is IntelliJ IDEA better than PyCharm?
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 IntelliJ IDEA or PyCharm cheaper?
IntelliJ IDEA is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free – $16.90/mo. IntelliJ IDEA starts at free – $16.90/mo; PyCharm starts at free – $12.90/mo.
Can IntelliJ IDEA replace PyCharm?
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.