8 Best Free C++ IDE Compiler For Windows (2025)

Bjarne Stroustrup came up with the idea. C++ is an object-oriented programming language. It uses the Simula67 programming language in addition to the C programming language. Writing C++ programs is made easier with the help of several Integrated Development Environments (IDEs), which provide prepared code templates.

Integrated development environments allow you to speed up the application programming process. We have compiled a list of some of the best free IDEs for C++ available for Windows. These tools handle the formatting and indentation of the code automatically.

Also Read- Best Antivirus Software For Windows 11

List of Best Free C++ IDE Compiler For Windows 11/10

They started from scratch and used to require a lot of time and effort for developers. That’s because software development is a multi-step process. Each step necessitated the installation of several software programs. The developer found it challenging to keep up with the changes.

Because these essential software products can be combined or integrated using IDEs (Integrated Development Environments), the development process becomes more efficient and expeditious. It has made software development much easier and faster. If you’re a C++ developer, here are some free IDEs you can use. In general, they have a few features.

1. Visual Studio Code – Free C++ IDE

Visual Studio Code is the most used open-source code editor used today. Microsoft developed it. Windows, Linux, and macOS are all supported operating systems.

If you search for the Microsoft C/C++ extension for C++ in the extensions area, you should have no trouble finding it. In addition, code snippets can be executed by using a different extension known as “code runner.”

2. CodeBlocks

The integrated development environment (IDE) is free in C, C++, and Fortran. It is made to meet the needs of customers with the highest expectations. It can be configured in any way imaginable and is highly adaptable.

It already has all of the necessary functionality built in. This integrated development environment (IDE) delivers a similar look and feel across many platforms.

This integrated development environment (IDE) was designed with support for plugins in mind to improve the overall user experience. As an illustration, plugins currently provide tools for assembling and debugging code. The capability can be added by writing some code or installing a plugin.

3. Eclipse

Eclipse served as the foundation for this project. Eclipse is a prevalent integrated development environment (IDE) for C and C++. It provides help for project development and has an administered framework. In addition, tools are available for working with source code. These functions include folding, grading, and macro definition browsers.

The interface designed for users is excellent. It makes rearranging components as simple as dragging and dropping them into place. It is possible to run it on various operating systems, including Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux.

4. Vim

This integrated development environment (IDE) features a consistent undo tree on multiple levels. This lightweight, integrated development environment (IDE) has a text editor with high configurability.

It is possible to write and modify virtually any text rapidly using it. Most Unix-based operating systems and Apple OS X include it under the name “vi.” The IDE in question is quite reliable. It is constantly being worked on to improve it.

A complete framework allows for the installation of plugins. The plugins offer support for various additional programming languages and file types and are compatible with a wide range of other tools.

In addition, it is compatible with all programming languages, which makes it an efficient tool for rapid coding. Searching and exchanging can also be done here.

5. CodeLite

The CodeLite IDE is open source and free to download and use. It is compatible with Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux. C, C++, PHP, and JavaScript are supported programming languages. Backend Node.js developers will appreciate the IDE’s focus on their needs.

For your convenience, you can undo or retry the operation. Editing functions such as toggling to full-screen mode, hiding and showing whitespace are also available.

Bookmarks can also be made and debugging operations can be performed quickly. In addition, you can configure the parameters to display line numbers. The program also includes an auto-complete feature.

As a result of this, the software saves files with fewer lines. Hotkeys can be assigned, and bookmarks can be personalized. Additionally, the fonts and colors of the background can be modified.

6. Clion

It is a powerful cross-platform C++ and C++ IDE that is well-versed in the relevant codes. It also provides the latest versions of Boost, libc++, and other C++ standards.

It takes care of the mundane tasks so you can focus on the important ones. One of its most important features is the ability to rename symbols. Refactoring processes must also generate the proper modifications in all of the code.

Remote debugging and integration with native programs are possible. The integrated debugger uses GDB/LLDB as the backend to analyze and resolve issues. It examines the disassembly view in the absence of sources.

A stack frame can also be used to simultaneously analyze all variables in a specific function. This feature lets you see the variables’ values immediately in the editor while debugging your code. It can also decipher the meaning behind some particularly convoluted formulas.

7. Qt Creator

The Qt Creator is also an excellent IDE. As a C++ developer, it is the fastest, simplest, and most enjoyable. This cross-platform IDE comes with a top-notch C++ code editor.

Also included are a GUI designer, form designer, navigation tools, and more. Developers are a big fan of APIs and libraries. Using them is a cinch because they’re simple, feature-rich, and thoroughly documented.

These technologies allow simultaneous creation of an application and a user interface. As a result, they may be used on a wide range of mobile devices and desktop computers. The best feature is the snappy and easy-to-use user interface.

In addition, it comes with a complete complement of tools. Programmers can use the code editor with syntax highlighting and autocomplete. Additionally, it provides visual debugging and profiling tools to aid in constructing user interfaces.

8. Dev C++

This IDE supports C++ and C++ languages. It uses the Mingw port of GCC as a compiler. Consoles and graphical user interfaces (GUIs) are examples of local executables. Dev-C++ can also be run on Cygwin.

Basic programming features, rather than advanced ones, are prominent in this application. You may start using it right away because it’s easy to install. This product’s simplicity is one of its best characteristics. It’s simple to use, and all the options are arranged logically.

The utility supports a wide range of commonly used source file formats. It can also handle header files in DEV format. Resource scripts, such as RC files, are another option. You can store your projects in the usual way.