As a JavaScript developer, you’re probably in VS Code every day to write code, identify issues, and handle all the other tasks necessary to keep your projects running smoothly. With the right extensions, VS Code evolves from a simple code editor into a productivity powerhouse – and many of them are completely free. 

Whether you’re debugging, formatting code, or managing dependencies, there’s an extension to make your life easier. But with so many options available, how do you know which ones to choose?

We’ve curated a list of the top 10 VS Code extensions that every JavaScript developer should have in their toolkit with links to download them on the VS Code Marketplace. Let’s dive in!

1. Prettier

Prettier is a popular code formatter that automates the process of maintaining a consistent code style across your project. By enforcing a uniform format, Prettier helps reduce the time spent on code reviews and makes it easy for team members to read and understand each other’s code. 

With support for JavaScript, TypeScript, CSS, HTML, and more, Prettier ensures that any and all of your codebases remain clean and organized.

• Key Features:
  • Automatic code formatting
  • Supports multiple languages
  • Integrates seamlessly with VS Code

Marketplace – Prettier

2. ESLint

ESLint helps identify and fix problems in your code, enforcing coding standards to prevent errors. This handy extension provides live linting, which means it checks your code as you write, highlighting issues and suggesting fixes on the fly.

• Key Features:
  • Live linting with error highlighting
  • Customizable rules to match your coding style
  • Integration with Prettier for consistent formatting

Marketplace – ESLint

3. GitLens

GitLens helps you visualize code authorship with Git blame annotations, navigate and explore Git repositories, and understand the history and evolution of a codebase.

If you or your team works with Git, GitLens is an excellent tool for understanding project history, onboarding, sprint planning, branch management, and more. 

• Key Features:
  • Visualize code authorship with Git blame
  • Enhanced repository navigation
  • Rich insights into code history and changes

Marketplace – GitLens

4. IntelliCode

IntelliCode is an AI-powered upgrade to VS Code’s built-in IntelliSense, providing smarter code completions by understanding your coding patterns. This extension can speed up your coding processes by predicting what you’re likely to type next, making your workflow smoother and more efficient.

• Key Features:
  • AI-driven code completions
  • Context-aware suggestions
  • Supports multiple languages and frameworks

Marketplace – IntelliCode

5. REST Client

REST Client is a handy tool for testing APIs without leaving your editor. It allows you to send HTTP requests and view responses directly in VS Code, making it a super helpful extension for web developers working with web services and APIs. 

• Key Features:
  • Send HTTP requests and view responses
  • Supports RESTful APIs
  • Easily save and manage requests within VS Code

Marketplace – REST Client

6. npm IntelliSense

npm IntelliSense speeds up your development process by providing auto-completion for npm modules in import or require statements. This can save you time and reduce errors by making sure you always get the correct module names and paths.

• Key Features:
  • Auto-completion for npm modules
  • Reduces typos and errors in import statements
  • Supports ES6 and CommonJS modules

Marketplace – npm IntelliSense

7. Live Server

Live Server launches a local development server with a live reload feature for static and dynamic pages. This means your browser automatically refreshes whenever you save changes to your files, speeding up your development processes and allowing you to see updates in real time.

• Key Features:
  • Local development server with live reload
  • Supports static and dynamic pages
  • Easy setup and configuration

Marketplace – Live Server

8. Node.js Modules Intellisense

Node.js Modules Intellisense enhances your coding experience by providing auto-completion for Node.js modules. This extension helps you write code faster by offering intelligent suggestions as you type, ensuring you always include the right modules and functions in your project.

• Key Features:
  • Auto-completion for Node.js modules
  • Speeds up coding with intelligent suggestions
  • Supports a wide range of Node.js packages

Marketplace – Node.js Modules Intellisense

9. JavaScript (ES6) Code Snippets

JavaScript (ES6) Code Snippets provides a collection of useful snippets for ES6 syntax, helping you write code faster with ready-to-use templates. This extension is particularly helpful for repetitive tasks, ensuring consistency and reducing the likelihood of errors.

• Key Features:
  • Wide range of ES6 snippets
  • Improves coding speed and accuracy
  • Easy to use and customize

Marketplace – JavaScript (ES6) Code Snippets

10. Path Intellisense

Path Intellisense is an incredibly useful extension for JavaScript developers working on large projects. It autocompletes filenames and paths as you type, making it easier to include files and modules without errors. This extension can help you save time and reduce the likelihood of broken links or incorrect file paths in your code.

• Key Features:
  • Auto-completion for file paths and module imports
  • Supports a wide range of file types
  • Improves accuracy and reduces errors

Marketplace – Path Intellisense

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I install VS Code extensions? 

To install VS Code extensions, open VS Code, click on the Extensions icon in the Activity Bar on the side and start browsing the Marketplace. You can search for specific extensions, read reviews, and click “Install” to add them to your setup.

What are the best VS Code extensions for JavaScript? 

Ultimately, the best VS Code extensions for your JavaScript workflows depend on the size and scope of your project. However, some highly-ranked VS Code extensions for JavaScript include Prettier for code formatting, ESLint for identifying and fixing problems, GitLens for enhanced Git capabilities, and Live Server for a live reload feature. 

Can I use VS Code as an online compiler for JavaScript? 

Yes, VS Code can be used as an online compiler for JavaScript, with extensions like REST Client for testing APIs and npm IntelliSense for managing packages. 

Final Thoughts

From automating code formatting with Prettier to enhancing your Git capabilities with GitLens, each of these VS Code extensions offer unique benefits that make JavaScript development smoother and more efficient. By leveraging these tools, you can focus on writing great code and leave the repetitive tasks to the extensions!

Dive into additional JavaScript VS Code extensions on the VS Code Marketplace and discover even more ways to enhance your coding experience.