Will using vim as a web dev is really more faster than using vscode?
9/3/2025 06:27pm
**Using Vim as a web developer can be faster than using Visual Studio Code (VSCode) depending on individual preferences and workflow**, but it ultimately comes down to personal adaptation and efficiency.
1. **Vim's Speed and Efficiency**:
- Vim is known for its speed and efficiency in navigating file structures and editing files.
- It allows users to record macros, which can streamline repetitive tasks.
- Vim's lightweight nature and ability to run in a terminal make it a favorite among developers who work over SSH on remote servers.
2. **VSCode's Features and Workflows**:
- VSCode offers excellent support for multiple programming languages and includes features like syntax highlighting, code completion, and language-specific tools, which can enhance productivity for web developers working with various languages.
- Its extensive plugin ecosystem and customizable interface cater to a wide range of developer needs.
- VSCode's Git integration, debugging tools, and extension marketplace make it a powerful choice for developers who value those features.
3. **Personal Adaptation and Efficiency**:
- The speed advantage of Vim can be significant for developers who are highly proficient and comfortable with its keyboard shortcuts and mapping system.
- However, VSCode's features and versatility can be more beneficial for developers who work with multiple languages or require extensive tooling and integration.
- The choice between the two often comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the developer's workflow.
4. **Real-world Examples**:
- Developers who have been using Vim for a long time, like Hendrik Lammers, find it efficient and enjoyable to use, but acknowledge its flaws and the potential for wasted time in configuration.
- Sean Warman, in his Medium article, argues that Vim is still better for its lightness, speed, portability, and configurability, especially in remote server environments.
- On the other hand, developers who switch between editors or try both find that VSCode's plugin ecosystem and ease of use can be more appealing, especially for its portability and seamless integration with cloud services like GitHub Codespaces.
In conclusion, whether Vim is faster than VSCode for web development depends on the individual developer's skills, the specific requirements of their work, and their personal preferences. Both editors have their strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between them often comes down to a matter of personal adaptation and efficiency.