Zed

Fast, open-source code editor written in Rust with built-in collaboration

AI Coding & DevelopmentFree planOverseas★★★★☆ 4.0

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What is Zed?

Zed is a code editor written from scratch in Rust, built for responsiveness on large files and low input latency, using GPU-accelerated rendering instead of a web view. It includes real-time collaboration where a colleague can join your buffer and edit alongside you, agentic AI features that read project context and apply changes, and a plugin system. It is open source with a business model built around team features, and it targets developers who find modern editors sluggish and heavy. Native builds cover macOS and Linux, with Windows support maturing.

Last updated: 2026-09-20. This site only provides an index; for exact features, pricing, and licensing, see the official website.

Key features

Native editor with GPU-accelerated rendering and low input latency
Real-time multiplayer editing with shared cursors and follow mode
Built-in AI agent panel with awareness of project context
Language server support for completion, diagnostics and refactoring
Open-source core with a plugin and theme ecosystem
Vim mode plus extensive keybinding customisation

Pros & cons

Strengths

Noticeably responsive when working with very large files
Multiplayer editing is built in rather than added as a plugin
Open source with an unusually active development pace

Watch out for

Windows support is less mature than macOS and Linux builds
Extension ecosystem is smaller than the one VS Code offers
Some advanced team and hosted AI features need a paid plan

Best for & use cases

performance-focused developers, pair programming, large files and open-source contributors

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FAQ

Why is it faster than other editors?

It is written in Rust and renders through the GPU rather than a browser layer, which removes a great deal of overhead. The difference is most obvious on large files and in long editing sessions.

Can I use my VS Code extensions?

A compatibility layer covers a subset of extensions rather than all of them. Check whether the specific extensions your workflow depends on are supported before switching over full time.

Is collaboration free?

Basic collaboration is available, with team-oriented capabilities on paid plans. For occasional pairing, the free experience is usually enough to judge whether it fits your habits.