Top 10 VS Code Extensions Every Web Developer Should Use in 2026

If you’re a web developer in 2026, having the right VS Code extensions can save hours of work and make coding more efficient. VS Code is already one of the most popular code editors, but its true power comes from extensions that boost productivity, catch errors, and simplify workflows. In this article, we’ll cover the top 10 VS Code extensions every web developer should have installed this year.

1. Prettier – Code Formatter

Prettier is a must-have for any developer. It automatically formats your code according to your preferred style. This keeps your code consistent and readable across teams.

Key Features:

Formats JavaScript, TypeScript, CSS, HTML, JSON, and more

Supports auto-format on save

Works seamlessly with ESLint

{
"editor.formatOnSave": true
}

VS Code Marketplace Link: Prettier

1. ESLint

ESLint helps you catch JavaScript and TypeScript errors in real-time. Combine it with Prettier for a clean and error-free codebase.

Benefits:

Lint's code while typing

Supports custom rules

Reduces bugs before runtime

{
"eslint.enable": true,
"eslint.autoFixOnSave": true
}

1. Live Server

Live Server is perfect for front-end developers. It launches a local development server with hot reload, so you can instantly see changes in the browser.

Use Case:

Rapid testing of HTML, CSS, and JS changes

Supports live reload for multiple files

1. GitLens

GitLens supercharges Git integration in VS Code. View commit history, authors, and line-by-line changes without leaving the editor.

Key Features:

Inline Git blame annotations

Detailed file and repository history

Works with GitHub and GitLab

1. Bracket Pair Colourizer 2

This extension colours matching brackets, making nested code easier to read. Perfect for JSX, React components, and complex functions.

Tip: Turn on rainbow colours for better readability of deeply nested code.

1. Path Intellisense

Path Intellisense autocompletes file paths in your project. No more typing long relative paths or guessing folder structure.

Example:
Typing import Header from './co will suggest ./components/Header.js automatically.

1. REST Client

REST Client lets you test APIs directly from VS Code without Postman. Send GET, POST, and PUT requests and view responses inline.

GET https://api.example.com/users
Content-Type: application/json

Perfect for: Backend developers, full-stack developers, and API testing.

1. IntelliCode

IntelliCode provides AI-powered code suggestions based on best practices from thousands of open-source projects.

Benefits:

Predicts next code lines

Reduces boilerplate coding

Supports Python, JavaScript, TypeScript, Java, and more

1. Auto Rename Tag

When editing HTML or JSX, Auto Rename Tag automatically renames the matching tag when you change the opening or closing tag.

Example:
Changing

to will automatically update to .

1. Code Spell Checker

This simple extension catches spelling mistakes in your comments, strings, and documentation. Small but crucial for professional-quality code.

Bonus Tip – Organize Your Extensions

Too many extensions can slow VS Code down. Use the “Extension Profiles” feature to enable only what you need for specific projects.

Conclusion

VS Code extensions are more than just add-ons—they’re productivity boosters. Installing the right extensions can save time, reduce errors, and make coding more enjoyable.

💡 Practical Takeaway: Start with Prettier, ESLint, and Live Server, then add the others gradually. Your workflow will thank you.

Which VS Code extension do you swear by? Comment below and let the community know!