CodeSpotlight is an IntelliJ IDEA plugin that adds a configurable animated visual focus around selected code. It is intended to make the code being discussed easier to spot in tutorials, recordings, lessons and presentations; it overlays the editor rather than changing source files. Its feature descriptions and compatibility details below come from a third-party product overview, so check the live Marketplace listing for current availability before installing.
What CodeSpotlight does
CodeSpotlight draws animated visual focus around a selected block of code, including multi-line selections. The product overview says the normal selection and editing behavior remain intact and that the plugin does not modify source files. These are product descriptions, not independently verified test results.
Developer Karan Sahani described the motivation on Product Hunt this way: “When someone is explaining code, the viewer doesn’t always know exactly where to look.” The plugin is aimed at making the selected code more visually prominent while someone explains it; no measured improvement in comprehension or presentation outcomes is established.
Its intended users include programming video creators, tutors, instructors, course creators, livestreamers and technical presenters. The overview also names code demonstrations, reviews, recordings and everyday editing as possible uses.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute#1 Best Overall
How do I set up CodeSpotlight?
- Install the plugin. In IntelliJ IDEA, open Settings → Plugins → Marketplace, search for CodeSpotlight, select Install, and restart if prompted. JetBrains documents this general Marketplace workflow, but it does not establish that CodeSpotlight is currently listed or compatible with your IDE version. Check the JetBrains Marketplace listing for current details. If you have a downloaded plugin archive, JetBrains also supports installing a ZIP or JAR through Settings → Plugins → Install Plugin from Disk.
- Open the plugin settings. The product overview gives the path as Settings → Tools → Animated Selection (CodeSpotlight).
- Configure the effect. Enable animated selection, choose an animation mode and colors, then adjust the visual controls available for that mode.
- Return to the editor. Select the code you want to emphasize; the plugin is described as drawing its effect around the selection.
JetBrains’ general installation instructions are available in its IntelliJ IDEA plugin documentation.
Does CodeSpotlight change my source code or editor behavior?
According to the product overview, CodeSpotlight is a visual overlay: it does not edit source files, and the editor’s usual selection and editing behavior is preserved. The overview is the basis for that description; no hands-on test is available to independently confirm it.
What is included in Free and Pro?
The following comparison reflects the feature sets reported by the third-party product overview, not a verified current commercial listing.
| Feature | Free | Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Animation modes | Traveling Border, Pulse, Breathing Glow and Static Glow | Travel + Pulse, Energy Sweep, Aurora and Orbit, in addition to the reported Free modes |
| Colors | Built-in color presets | Custom primary and secondary colors |
| Motion and trail controls | Core appearance and animation controls; one moving light segment; standard trail controls | Additional moving-light segments and advanced trail controls |
| Saved presets | Up to two | Unlimited |
| Focus Mode | Not included in the reported Free feature set | Included |
The available evidence does not establish a current price, trial length, subscription commitment or billing terms, so it is not enough to compare the tiers’ cost or value.
Rank #3
Which IDEs support CodeSpotlight?
The product overview reports support for IntelliJ IDEA, Android Studio and 13 additional IntelliJ-based products. It also reports version 1.0.1, released September 21, 2026. These are overview-reported details, not independently confirmed current compatibility information. Plugin support can change; check the live Marketplace listing for the supported products and versions before relying on them.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
