What it does
IntelliJ IDEA is a desktop IDE for Java and Kotlin development. It combines a code editor with project navigation, inspections, run and debug workflows, and integrations for common JVM development tasks. JetBrains now describes a unified product: core functionality remains free, while an Ultimate subscription adds advanced tooling after a 30-day trial.
Install IntelliJ IDEA for Windows, macOS, or Linux, open a Java or Kotlin project, and let the IDE index its source before navigating between definitions and usages. JetBrains highlights code understanding, inspections, and debugging; these are most useful when the project’s build files and dependencies are available. Use a run configuration that matches the project rather than assuming an empty folder is ready to execute.
JetBrains has replaced the former separate Community and Ultimate downloads with one IntelliJ IDEA product. The installation guide says core functionality remains free and Ultimate adds advanced tooling, with a 30-day trial. That lets a developer start without a purchase and decide whether the advanced framework and database tools justify a subscription for the work at hand.
Strengths
- The unified IDE supports Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Core functionality remains free, with an Ultimate subscription for additional tooling.
- The product page highlights Java and Kotlin development, code understanding, and debugging.
Watch out for
- Advanced tooling is subscription-based after the documented 30-day Ultimate trial.
- Project build files and dependencies still need to be present for the IDE to understand a project fully.
Best for
- Developing and debugging Java or Kotlin applications
- Working in a JVM project that benefits from code navigation and inspections
Sources
- IntelliJ IDEA | JetBrains (Oct 25, 2026)
- Install IntelliJ IDEA | IntelliJ IDEA Documentation (Oct 25, 2026)