When it comes to coding, having the right tool is crucial. Two popular choices are Visual Studio Code (VS Code) and its open-source alternative, VSCodium. While both offer similar functionality, they have distinct differences that can impact your development experience.
The main difference lies in their build process and licensing. VS Code is built using a proprietary binary, which includes custom configurations and telemetry mechanisms. On the other hand, VSCodium is an open-source option that compiles the same code without these proprietary additions. This means VSCodium provides a truly open-source experience throughout its development.
Another significant difference is how each handles data collection and privacy. The official VS Code version has telemetry turned on by default, while VSCodium removes this tracking mechanism altogether. If you prioritize your data’s security, VSCodium might be the better choice.
However, one area where VS Code excels is its extension ecosystem. VSCodium lacks seamless access to Microsoft’s Extension Marketplace, which can limit its compatibility with certain tools and plugins. To make up for this, VSCodium relies on the Open VSX Registry, an open-source alternative that hosts a large collection of popular extensions.
Ultimately, choosing between VS Code and VSCodium depends on your priorities and needs. If you value convenience and are willing to accept some limitations, VS Code might be the better choice. But if you prioritize openness and data security, VSCodium could be the way to go.
Source: https://www.howtogeek.com/vs-code-vs-vs-codium-how-different-is-the-open-source-version