Download Details
- Version
- 2026-09 (latest)
- File size
- 144 MB
- License
- Free
- Security scan
- VirusTotal: 35 of 35 engines say OK (0 flagged)
- SHA-256 checksum
d4e46c19a4353e9918e8760a80e2cfaf3573cacf74934ee93618c0a5c757532b- Developer
- Eclipse.org Foundation, Inc.Inc.
- Supported OS
- Windows 11, Windows 10
- Installers
- 64-bit (x64), ARM (Arm64), Offline
- Downloads
- 22397
- Rating
- 4.8 out of 5 · 86 reviews
- File name(s)
- eclipse-java-2026-09-R-win32-x86_64.zip, eclipse-java-2026-09-R-win32-aarch64.zip
Reviewed by Eman Sakr
Tested on Windows 11 and 10 · · How we review
Screenshots
Eclipse IDE suits Java developers, students and teams who want a free, customizable workbench and accept some setup. It covers 64-bit Windows 10 and 11, with an ARM build and a portable option.

The package system is the main draw: the same IDE becomes a Java, C/C++, PHP or web tool depending on the bundle you pick.

Skip it if you want a polished editor with zero configuration. The standout detail is the bundled Java runtime for the IDE itself, so a fresh PC can launch it right away.
What is Eclipse IDE?
Eclipse IDE is a desktop development environment from the Eclipse Foundation. It bundles an editor, compiler tooling, a debugger and project management in one window.
It started as a Java tool and now covers other languages through packages and plugins. The license is free and open source.
Packages for Java, C/C++, PHP and web work
Instead of one fixed download, Eclipse offers ready-made packages. Each one preloads the tools for a type of project, so you skip most of the plugin hunting.
The catch is choosing correctly on day one. If you pick the wrong package, you can still add the missing parts later through the Marketplace.
Tip: for plain Java apps, start with the Java Developers package. Pick the Enterprise Java and Web one only if you build server-side or web projects.
Workspaces and perspectives: how Eclipse organizes your projects
Every session works inside a workspace folder that holds your projects and settings. Perspectives rearrange the window for a task, such as coding or debugging.
This layout is flexible but takes a while to learn. Beginners often lose a view and need Window, then Perspective, then Reset to bring it back.
Plugins and the Marketplace: flexibility with upkeep
Almost everything in Eclipse is a plugin, and the Marketplace adds support for more languages, frameworks and tools.
The downside is upkeep. Plugins from different authors can conflict after an update, so add only what you need.
Debugging, Maven and Git inside one window
The Java package includes a debugger with breakpoints and variable inspection. It also includes Maven project support and Git integration.
That keeps the usual edit, build and commit cycle in a single place. The Git views feel busier than a dedicated Git client, though.
Why Eclipse IDE can feel slow on big workspaces
Large workspaces with many open projects and plugins can make the IDE lag, especially on low-memory PCs.
Tip: close projects you aren’t using, and raise the memory limit by editing the -Xmx line in eclipse.ini if the IDE struggles with large codebases.
Eclipse or IntelliJ IDEA for Java: where each one pulls ahead
Eclipse wins on being completely free, highly customizable and strong in mixed-language setups through plugins.
IntelliJ IDEA Community Edition usually feels smoother for Java code suggestions and refactoring. Trying both on a small project is the quickest way to decide.
Is Eclipse IDE safe to install?
The installer was checked with VirusTotal and came back clean.
Get it through the download button on this page, which links to the official Eclipse Foundation build.
Skip Eclipse IDE if you want a zero-setup editor
If you only edit a few scripts or want an editor that works instantly, a lighter tool will suit you better.
The IDE rewards people who will configure workspaces, packages and plugins to fit their projects.
Fixing common install problems
- “Java was started but returned exit code”: the IDE is pointing at a Java runtime that is too old or too new. Open
eclipse.iniand set the-vmline to a current JDK, or remove that line to use the bundled runtime. - IDE won’t start after an update: a newer release may need a newer Java. Install a current JDK and point
eclipse.inito it. - Installer stalls on the download step: restart it and check that your firewall or proxy allows it online. A slow mirror can also cause this, so waiting a few minutes often helps.
Pros & Cons
What we liked
- Free and open source
- Packages for Java, C++, PHP
- Huge plugin ecosystem
- Built-in debugger and Git tools
- Installer includes a Java runtime
What we didn't like
- Heavy on large workspaces
- Plugin conflicts can break updates
- Interface feels dated
Best Eclipse IDE Alternatives
-
Anaconda NavigatorA data science environment packed into a single installer.
-
Arduino IDEFree code editor for writing, compiling and uploading sketches to microcontroller boards.
-
Visual Studio 2019Free Microsoft IDE for C#, C++ and Python with a built-in debugger.
-
Visual Studio CodeA free, lightweight code editor with built-in debugging, extensions, and many more.
Conclusion
4.8out of 5 · 86 user ratings
Eclipse IDE is worth the setup if you build Java or mixed-language projects and want a free tool you can bend to your workflow. Students and teams on a budget get a complete environment without paying anything.
If you care most about smooth code suggestions and refactoring in Java, IntelliJ IDEA Community Edition is the free choice to try next.
For quick edits and many languages in a light editor, Visual Studio Code is simpler, and NetBeans is a calmer free option for straightforward Java and Maven projects.
FAQ
Is Eclipse IDE free to use for commercial projects?
Yes, the IDE is free and open source under the Eclipse Public License, so it costs nothing to use at work. Some third-party plugins may charge their own fees.
Do I need to install Java before Eclipse IDE?
No, the installer includes a Java runtime that runs the IDE itself. If you want to build apps against a specific JDK, install it and register it in the Eclipse preferences.
What does “Java was started but returned exit code” mean in Eclipse?
It means Eclipse is launching with an incompatible Java runtime. Edit the -vm line in eclipse.ini to point to a current JDK, or remove the line to use the bundled runtime.
Which Eclipse package should I pick for Java?
Choose Eclipse IDE for Java Developers for desktop and console apps. Pick the Enterprise Java and Web package only when you build server-side or web applications.
Can I run Eclipse IDE without a regular install?
Yes, a portable build is available. Extract it to a folder and start the IDE from there.
How do I update Eclipse IDE on Windows?
Open Help, then Check for Updates, and install what Eclipse finds. A new release arrives every quarter, so run the check regularly.
How can I make Eclipse IDE run faster on a large project?
Close projects you aren’t using and remove plugins you don’t need. You can also raise the memory limit through the -Xmx line in eclipse.ini.
Found a problem with this download? Report an outdated version, broken link, suspicious installer or incorrect information.


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