Zed

Overview

Zed is a next-generation, open-source code editor engineered for modern developers. Leveraging the power of Rust, Zed provides a fast, responsive, and intuitive coding environment. Its GPU-accelerated interface ensures smooth performance, even with large codebases. Zed's real-time collaboration features allow developers to work together seamlessly, whether they're across the room or across the globe. Integrated AI assistance, powered by models like OpenAI and Anthropic, aids in code generation, transformation, and analysis, streamlining the development process.

Key Features

High-performance engine: Zed's architecture is optimized for speed and efficiency. By using Rust's memory safety and performance capabilities, Zed ensures that even large codebases are handled with ease. The editor starts instantly, loads files in a blink, and responds to your keystrokes on the next display refresh.
Real-time collaboration: Zed's collaborative features allow developers to work together seamlessly. You can chat with teammates, write notes together, and share your screen and project—all within the editor. This integrated approach eliminates the need for external communication tools, streamlining the development process.
AI integration: Zed integrates with AI models like OpenAI and Anthropic to provide intelligent code suggestions, refactoring, and analysis. The Assistant Panel functions as a fully operational text editor within the code editor itself, offering visibility and control over AI interactions. This seamless integration allows developers to harness the power of AI without disrupting their workflow.
Native git support: With built-in Git support, Zed allows you to perform Git operations such as staging, committing, pushing, and pulling directly within the editor. This native integration simplifies version control and enhances workflow efficiency.
Extensible architecture: Zed supports a wide range of extensions, including language servers, debuggers, and themes. This extensibility allows you to customize the editor to fit your specific development needs. Whether you're working with Python, JavaScript, or Rust, Zed's extensible architecture ensures a tailored coding environment.

Pros

Open-source: Zed is fully open-source, allowing for transparency, customization, and community contributions.
Cross-platform support: Available for macOS and Linux, with Windows support in development.
AI-powered features: Integrated AI assistance enhances coding efficiency and accuracy.
Real-time collaboration: Seamless collaboration tools facilitate teamwork and communication.
Extensive extensions: A rich ecosystem of extensions allows for tailored development environments.

Cons

Windows support: Currently in closed beta, with full support expected later in 2025.
Learning curve: Some advanced features may require time to master, especially for users new to Zed or similar editors.
Resource intensive: Optimal performance may require modern hardware, particularly for GPU acceleration.

Use Cases

Solo developers: Enhance productivity with AI-assisted coding, streamlined version control, and a responsive interface.
Development teams: Collaborate in real-time, share projects, and maintain consistent coding standards across the team.
Open source contributors: Leverage Zed's open-source nature to customize the editor and contribute to its development.
Educational institutions: Use Zed's collaborative features and AI tools to facilitate coding education and mentorship.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Zed completely free to use?

Yes! Zed’s tier is $0 forever and includes access to the powerful, GPU‑accelerated code editor, real‑time collaboration, and weekly updates. AI features are available via 50 hosted prompts/month and 2,000 edit predictions, plus unlimited prompts if you supply your own AI API keys.

What’s included in the Pro plan?

The Pro plan is $20/month. It includes everything in Personal, plus:

500 hosted prompts/month
Unlimited edit predictions
The ability to opt into usage-based billing once you exceed prompt limits
Community support

Is there a free trial for Pro?

Yes! Pro includes a 14-day free trial providing 150 hosted prompts (unlimited edit predictions) within that period. The trial ends when your prompts run out or two weeks elapse—whichever comes first.

What if I exceed the hosted prompt limit?

You can enable usage-based billing on Pro. After 500 prompts in a month, you’ll be billed per additional prompt (based on the AI model used), with charges processed either every $20 accrued or at the end of your billing cycle, whichever occurs first. You can also set a monthly spending cap.

Can I use Zed's AI features for free with my API keys?

Absolutely. Zed supports external AI providers such as OpenAI, Anthropic, Google AI, GitHub Copilot, Ollama, and many others. If you bring your keys, AI usage is free and unlimited, bypassing hosted prompt limits.

Can I use Zed without AI features?

Yes! You can use Zed as a blazing-fast, collaborative code editor without ever enabling AI features or a paid plan. Download and sign in to start coding—the core experience is free and fully functional.