The best part? Many of the top Python IDEs are completely free. And to take your Python development to the next level, we’ll also introduce Keploy—a developer-first testing tool that helps you generate tests automatically and speed up backend development.
Let’s dive into the best free IDEs for Python in 2025, plus a powerful sidekick for your testing workflow.
What Makes a Great Python IDE?
A good Python IDE offers:
- Syntax highlighting & intelligent autocompletion
- Debugging and version control tools
- Virtual environment support
- Integrated terminal or shell
- Plugin ecosystem for extensions
- Compatibility with testing and CI tools
Now, let’s look at the top contenders.
1. Visual Studio Code (VS Code)
Overview:
VS Code is Microsoft’s free, open-source code editor with massive community support and robust Python capabilities via extensions.
Why Developers Love It:
- Python extension adds linting, formatting, and debugging
- Customizable with AI tools like GitHub Copilot or Codeium
- Integrated terminal and Git support
- Tons of extensions for Docker, Jupyter, and even Keploy
Best For:
Developers who want flexibility and cross-language support.
Tip:
VS Code + Keploy CLI lets you record API calls during local development and auto-generate test cases in your Flask, FastAPI, or Django projects.
2. PyCharm Community Edition
Overview:
JetBrains’ PyCharm is a purpose-built Python IDE with a free and open-source version that supports core Python development.
Key Features:
- Powerful refactoring tools
- Built-in terminal and virtual environment support
- Great for structured backend projects
- Smart debugging with breakpoints
Best For:
Intermediate to advanced Python developers focused on backend or API work.
Bonus Tip:
Combine PyCharm with Keploy to eliminate manual test writing and achieve up to 80% test coverage without lifting a finger.
3. Thonny
Overview:
A beginner-focused IDE that simplifies Python development with a clean UI and built-in Python support.
Why It’s Great:
- Simple setup, even for kids or non-programmers
- Easy-to-use debugger
- Pre-installed with Python
- Lightweight and fast
Best For:
First-time Python learners or educational environments.
4. JupyterLab
Overview:
JupyterLab is the go-to interface for data scientists. It allows you to run Python in notebook cells with real-time output, charts, and markdown support.
Why Developers Use It:
- Perfect for experiments and machine learning
- Supports rich media, graphs, and inline documentation
- Integrates easily with libraries like Pandas, Matplotlib, and TensorFlow
- Cloud-compatible with platforms like Google Colab
Best For:
Data science, research, and AI development.
5. Spyder
Overview:
Spyder is another data science IDE, popular in academia and scientific computing, often bundled with Anaconda.
Why It’s Great:
- MATLAB-like layout
- Built-in variable explorer
- Strong integration with NumPy, SciPy, and Matplotlib
- Good performance for matrix-heavy workloads
Best For:
Engineers, researchers, and students doing data analysis.
6. Replit (Online IDE)
Overview:
Replit is a cloud-based IDE where you can write and run Python from any browser. It’s ideal for quick coding and collaboration.
Why It’s Great:
- No installation required
- Works on mobile, tablet, or laptop
- Built-in hosting and deployment
- Great for beginners or lightweight scripting
Best For:
Hackers, hobbyists, and remote learners.
Bonus Tool: Keploy – Your AI Test Generator
While IDEs help you write code, Keploy helps you test it. It’s an open-source tool that automatically generates E2E test cases and mocks by recording real API traffic.
Why Use Keploy with Python?
- Record and replay HTTP calls to auto-generate test cases
- No need to write unit or integration tests manually
- Compatible with FastAPI, Flask, and Django
- Works with VS Code, JetBrains, and CLI
Best For:
Backend developers who want high test coverage without wasting time on writing test code.
Try It Out:
- GitHub: keploy/keploy
- Docs: Keploy Documentation
Final Thoughts
Here’s a quick summary of which IDE suits your use case:
| IDE | Best For | Platforms |
| VS Code | Versatile development & testing with Keploy | Cross-platform |
| PyCharm CE | Robust Python backend development | Windows, Mac, Linux |
| Thonny | Learning & education | Cross-platform |
| JupyterLab | Data science & AI | Browser |
| Spyder | Scientific research | Windows, Mac, Linux |
| Replit | Quick coding anywhere | Browser, mobile |
And if you're building APIs or working on backend systems, don’t forget to pair your favorite IDE with Keploy—your free testing assistant for Python projects.
In 2025, developing Python apps has never been easier or smarter. With the right IDE and tools like Keploy, you're not just writing code—you're building software that’s reliable, testable, and production-ready.
Read more on https://keploy.io/blog/community/top-5-best-ides-to-use-for-python-in-2024