What it does
NCrunch is an IDE extension and test runner for .NET developers. It automatically processes a solution's existing tests in the background, showing pass or fail markers and code coverage in the editor while developers work. It also collects performance metrics and runtime data from tests. NCrunch is aimed at teams that want test feedback during implementation rather than waiting for a separate full test command after each change.
NCrunch works with an existing .NET solution and test suite; it is not a test authoring language. Install the extension matching the IDE version, open a solution, explicitly enable NCrunch for it, and step through its setup wizard. The purchase page lists a US$159 Named User license and a US$289 Company Seat, with one year of updates included; the license remains usable after that year. The quick-start guide recommends beginning with a small, well-tested solution so its background processing is easy to understand. As code changes, the extension runs affected tests and places results and coverage indicators next to the source.
A practical example is changing a validation rule and watching the unit tests for invalid input rerun while you edit. If the change alters behavior, the affected test result and coverage markers can direct attention to the relevant code. The same runner can support integration tests, but NCrunch's documentation warns that those tests may be slow, have external side effects, or conflict when run concurrently; shared databases and files need an isolation plan.
NCrunch supports Visual Studio and JetBrains Rider, with the current download page labeling Rider support as Windows-only beta. The product offers a 30-day evaluation. This is useful continuous feedback for .NET work, but not a substitute for a broader CI matrix or a standalone cross-platform runner.
Strengths
- Runs existing unit tests continuously and surfaces results inside supported IDEs.
- Shows code coverage and per-line performance information alongside code.
- Can run integration tests as well as unit tests when the solution is configured for the concurrent runner.
Watch out for
- NCrunch depends on Visual Studio or Rider, with the current Rider support marked Windows-only beta.
- Integration tests can be slow, affect external resources, or conflict under concurrency, so they need deliberate configuration and isolation.
Best for
- .NET developers who want continuous unit-test feedback inside an IDE
- Test-driven development where coverage and test impact should be visible while editing
- Teams that can isolate external resources used by integration tests
Sources
- NCrunch (Oct 25, 2026)
- Quick Start Guide | NCrunch Documentation (Oct 25, 2026)
- Integration Testing | NCrunch Documentation (Oct 25, 2026)
- NCrunch Purchase and License Options (Oct 25, 2026)
- NCrunch Download (Oct 25, 2026)