What is the best AI coding assistant for IntelliJ?
Common JetBrains options
JetBrains offers its own AI Assistant plugin that works inside IntelliJ IDEA and other JetBrains tools. GitHub Copilot also has a JetBrains plugin with code completion and chat features. Plugin availability and features can differ by IDE version and by subscription.
Check the supported languages, especially if you use less common frameworks. Test completion quality on a small file before committing to a plan. Quality often varies more by language than by brand name.
- JetBrains AI Assistant: built into JetBrains IDEs
- GitHub Copilot: JetBrains plugin available
- Check supported languages
- Try a free trial before paying
Setup tips
Install the plugin from the JetBrains marketplace, sign in, and restart the IDE. Some plugins need network access, and company firewalls can block them. Ask your IT team if the plugin fails to connect on a work machine. Many developers also check the plugin changelog to see how often the tool gets updated.
Keep your IDE and plugins updated, since AI features change often. An update can add or remove features, so review release notes when something stops working.
- Install from the JetBrains marketplace
- Sign in and restart the IDE
- Check firewall or proxy settings
- Keep the IDE and plugin updated
Common mistakes
- Installing multiple AI plugins that compete for suggestions.
- Assuming all features match the VS Code version.
- Forgetting to restart the IDE after installing.
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