Side by side
PhpStorm vs Rapid PHP Editor
Both stand on php ides. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free trial LinuxMacWindows
Choose PhpStorm if PHP work calls for integrated coding assistance, framework support, debugging, testing, databases, and remote development. The main reason to look elsewhere is its paid model if you need a generally available free plan; students, teachers, and qualifying projects may have free-license eligibility.
Visit PhpStorm
Paid Windows
Rapid PHP Editor combines everyday editing tools with PHP debugging, remote publishing, and previews. Check the license type and Windows version requirements before choosing it.
Visit Rapid PHP EditorThe facts
| PhpStorm | Rapid PHP Editor | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | A free trial | No |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Rapid PHP 2025 Personal: $59.95, paid once |
| Plans published | 2 | 3 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | jetbrains.com | rapidphpeditor.com |
| On php ides | #17 of 23 | #21 of 23 |
PhpStorm: what it does well
- Works on Linux, macOS, and Windows.
- Built-in support for Laravel, Blade, Symfony, and WordPress.
- Xdebug debugger includes conditional breakpoints and step-through execution.
- Supports PHPUnit and Pest, test generation, and code coverage views.
- Offers remote interpreters through SSH, Docker, Vagrant, and WSL.
What to know first
- There is no general free plan.
- The trial lasts 30 days.
- Pricing for the individual and organization plans is not established here.
Rapid PHP Editor: what it does well
- Supports PHP, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
- Includes a real-time PHP syntax checker and xDebug debugger.
- Publishes changed remote files with one click.
- AI assistant credits cover 100+ prompts per license.
- Purchases include major-version updates and email support.
What to know first
- Available for Windows only.
- No free-plan feature set or trial duration is specified.
- Current version supports Windows 10 and 11; older systems need a legacy download.
- Personal license is limited to non-commercial use.
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