Zed
Lightning-fast, multiplayer code editor from Atom creators with built-in AI assistance, collaborative editing, and native performance
Overview
Zed is a next-generation code editor built from the ground up in Rust for maximum performance and responsiveness. Created by the original authors of Atom and Tree-sitter, Zed combines lightning-fast speed with innovative multiplayer collaboration features that allow multiple developers to edit the same codebase in real-time. The editor includes built-in AI assistance powered by multiple language models, intelligent code completion, and seamless integration with modern development workflows. Zed's native architecture delivers instant startup times and smooth performance even on large codebases, while its collaborative features enable true pair programming without the lag.
The Verdict
Who Should Use Zed?
Best For
- Teams practicing pair programming and collaborative code reviews in real-time
- Developers frustrated with slow IDE performance who prioritize speed and responsiveness
- Open-source enthusiasts wanting a modern, transparent code editor
- Remote teams needing seamless multiplayer editing without screen sharing lag
- Developers on macOS and Linux seeking native performance and battery efficiency
Not Ideal For
- Windows users (support is experimental as of 2026)
- Teams requiring extensive IDE features like advanced debugging or profiling
- Developers deeply invested in VS Code extension ecosystem
What's Great
- Exceptionally fast performance with instant startup and smooth scrolling on large files
- Innovative multiplayer features enable true real-time collaborative coding
- Open-source with transparent development and active community
- Built-in AI assistance with support for multiple LLM providers
- Native performance yields better battery life compared to Electron-based editors
Watch Out For
- Smaller extension ecosystem compared to VS Code or mature IDEs
- Windows support still experimental, not production-ready for all users
- Newer product means fewer resources, tutorials, and community solutions
Pricing
View all features & details
Key Features
- Real-time multiplayer editing and collaboration
- Built-in AI code assistance (multiple LLM providers)
- Lightning-fast performance (Rust-native)
- Vim mode and keyboard-first workflow
- Git integration and version control
- LSP support for language intelligence
Platforms
- macOS (fully supported)
- Linux (fully supported)
- Windows (experimental)
How It Compares
| Feature | Zed | VS Code | Cursor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Performance | Native Rust, instant startup | Electron, slower | Electron-based |
| Multiplayer | Built-in real-time | Live Share extension | No native support |
| Pricing | Free + $20/mo Pro | Free | $20/mo |
| Best For | Speed & collaboration | Extension ecosystem | AI-first workflow |