Compare VSCodium vs. Vim

The source code for Microsoft's Visual Studio Code (VSCode) is available as open source under the MIT license, yet the downloadable version of the product is subject to a different license that is not considered free and open-source software (FLOSS) and includes telemetry features. To provide an alternative, the VSCodium project was created, allowing users to avoid the hassle of downloading and building from the source code by offering pre-built binaries. This project utilizes specialized build scripts that fetch Microsoft's VSCode repository, execute the necessary build commands, and subsequently upload the finished binaries to GitHub releases, all of which are licensed under the MIT license and have telemetry features disabled. For users on Mac OS X Mojave, if you encounter the message “App can’t be opened because Apple cannot check it for malicious software” when you first try to open VSCodium, you can simply right-click the application and select Open, which should only be necessary the first time you launch it on that operating system. Additionally, comprehensive documentation is available for anyone looking to transition from Visual Studio Code, as well as for addressing various issues that may arise during use of VSCodium. This ensures users have access to all the guidance they need for a smooth experience.

Vim is a versatile and highly customizable text editor designed for efficient text creation and modification. It is commonly included as "vi" on most UNIX systems and is also available on Apple OS X. Known for its stability, Vim is under continuous development to enhance its features further. The editor supports multi-level persistence, boasts an extensive plugin ecosystem, and accommodates a wide range of programming languages and file formats, along with a powerful search and replace functionality, making it a valuable tool that can integrate with numerous external applications. The Vim online platform serves as a hub for the community, where users can share useful tips and tools related to Vim. Additionally, Vim includes a scripting language that facilitates the creation of plugins, enabling IDE-like functionalities, syntax highlighting, colorization, and other advanced capabilities. These scripts can be easily uploaded and managed through Vim online, providing a seamless experience for users. Originally named Vi IMitation, Vim has evolved so significantly that the name change to Vi IMproved was deemed necessary. In essence, Vim incorporates nearly all of the commands from the traditional Unix program "Vi," while also offering a host of enhancements. This powerful editor is ideal for both novice and experienced users seeking a reliable text editing solution.