Top 10+ Alternatives for Android Studio in 2025
Top 10+ Android Studio Alternatives in 2025
Android Studio has remained the gold standard for Android app development for years. But it’s not the only way to bring your app ideas to life. Whether you’re looking for something faster, need a lightweight environment, or prefer different tools, there are many great Android Studio alternatives in 2025. Here’s a look at the top options, each with its unique features ready to help you code smarter and quicker.
1. Eclipse IDE
Eclipse was once the go-to IDE for Android development before Android Studio took over. It’s still a versatile and customizable alternative, thanks to its robust plugin ecosystem.
- Wide range of plugins for Java, C++, and more
- Open-source and free to use
- Supports Android development with ADT plugin
2. IntelliJ IDEA Community Edition
If you enjoy Android Studio’s interface, you’ll like IntelliJ IDEA since Android Studio is based on it. The Community Edition supports Java, Kotlin, and plenty of other languages.
- Lightweight compared to Android Studio
- Smart code completion and refactoring
- Support for multiple JVM and non-JVM languages
3. Visual Studio Code
Visual Studio Code is a popular lightweight source-code editor that, with the right extensions, becomes a solid alternative for Android development, especially for hybrid and cross-platform apps.
- Fast and light on resources
- Excellent extension marketplace (Flutter, React Native, Cordova, etc.)
- Easy integration with Git and other tools
4. Xamarin
Xamarin is ideal if you want to develop Android and iOS apps using C#. It simplifies building apps for both platforms with a shared codebase.
- Write apps in C# and .NET
- Cross-platform development (Android, iOS, Windows)
- Large community and solid documentation
5. React Native
React Native lets you build mobile apps using JavaScript and React. It enables quick development with a massive assortment of ready-to-use modules.
- Single codebase for both Android and iOS
- Hot reloading for fast testing
- Large community and extensive libraries
6. Flutter
Flutter, backed by Google, has exploded in popularity for its speed and the ability to create beautiful apps. It uses Dart and is great for building cross-platform applications.
- Single codebase for Android, iOS, web, and desktop
- Fast development with hot reload
- Rich widget library for customizable UIs
7. Cordova (Apache Cordova)
Apache Cordova allows you to write Android apps using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. It’s perfect for web developers transitioning to mobile.
- Supports plugins for native device functionality
- Cross-platform app development
- Open-source with a strong developer base
8. PhoneGap (Open Source Distribution)
PhoneGap, based on the Cordova project, simplifies creating Android and iOS applications using web technologies. It’s a good starting point for web developers.
- Build using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
- Cloud-based and desktop app support
- Rich plugin architecture
9. NetBeans IDE
NetBeans might be best known for Java development, but it’s highly customizable and can be used for Android development with the right plugins.
- Open-source and free
- Great project management and code-editing tools
- Supports multiple programming languages
10. AIDE (Android IDE)
AIDE is a unique alternative because it lets you build Android apps directly on your Android device, making coding on-the-go possible.
- Code, test, and build right on your phone or tablet
- Java, C++, and Android SDK support
- Integrated debugger and UI designer
11. Kodular
Kodular is a drag-and-drop app builder suited for beginners or anyone wanting to prototype quickly without advanced coding.
- Visual programming—no coding required
- Wide range of built-in components
- Export real Android apps
12. Thunkable
Thunkable follows a similar drag-and-drop approach but is more geared toward both Android and iOS app development, making it a flexible alternative for non-coders.
- No-code, visual programming
- Export to both Android and iOS
- Active community and tons of templates
Conclusion
Each of these Android Studio alternatives brings something unique to the table. Whether you’re a seasoned coder or just starting, you’ll find an environment here that fits your workflow. Try a few out and see which one clicks—you might just find a better, faster, or more fun way to build your next Android app in 2025!
