JRebel is a Java development tool that allows developers to skip redeploys during development. It makes the code and resource changes instantly...
Best Spring Boot DevTools Alternatives ranked by AI · updated Aug 2026
Spring Boot DevTools provides automatic application restarts, LiveReload, and development-time configuration for Spring Boot projects. It is intended for Spring developers who prioritize fast feedback over JVM-wide structural redefinition.
Top 6 Spring Boot DevTools alternatives
IntelliJ IDEA is a powerful Java integrated development environment (IDE) for software developers. It provides advanced coding assistance, intelligent code analysis, and...
Starting at $149/year for individual use
Eclipse is a popular open-source integrated development environment (IDE) that supports multiple programming languages. It offers a wide range of features and...
4
Dcevm
DCEVM Project
DCEVM is a modified Java Virtual Machine that supports extended runtime class redefinition during development. It is intended for Java developers who...
Pros
- Supports structural class changes beyond standard JVM HotSwap
- Free and open source
- Works at the JVM level across many Java frameworks
Cons
- Requires compatible JVM builds and setup
- Less polished than commercial agents such as JRebel
- Compatibility varies across Java versions and frameworks
HotswapAgent is a Java agent that enables hotswapping of class and resource changes in a running JVM.
Pros
- Free to use
- Supports hotswapping of class and resource changes
Cons
- May have compatibility issues with certain setups
- Requires additional setup compared to JRebel
6
Apache NetBeans
Apache Software Foundation
Apache NetBeans is a free, open-source IDE with Java and JavaFX development support. It suits developers who want project management, code editing,...
Pros
- Free and open source with strong Java support
- Includes project, build, debugging, and refactoring tools
- Lighter setup than many commercial Java IDEs
Cons
- Its visual JavaFX design workflow is less central than Scene Builder's
- JavaFX tooling can require additional configuration
- Fewer third-party plugins than IntelliJ IDEA
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