kitio.aiVisual Studio Code vs XAML.io
A side-by-side look at pricing plans, free tiers, features, pros and cons, updated for 2026. Visual Studio Code is completely free, while XAML.io is freemium.
At a glance
Best for
Pricing model
Starting price
Free plan
Made by
Based in
Rating
Key features
- AI agents that plan and code
- Model selection
- MCP support
- Extension marketplace
- Integrated terminal and debugger
- Web version
- AI app generation
- C# and XAML code editor
- Drag-and-drop visual designer
- Web and desktop publishing
- Visual Studio project export
| Feature | Visual Studio Code | XAML.io |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Free open-source editor with built-in AI agents for coding | Build .NET apps in the browser with AI, C#/XAML code or a visual designer |
| Category | Coding | Coding |
| Pricing model | Free | Freemium |
| Starting price | Free | See pricing page |
| Free plan | Yes, fully free | Yes |
| Made by | Microsoft | Userware |
| Based in | United States | – |
| Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Key features |
|
|
Pricing compared
Visual Studio Code is completely free, while XAML.io is freemium.
Free plan
Cheapest paid plan
Top plan
Free trial
Prices in USD, checked Oct 29, 2026 or later. Plans change often, so confirm on each tool's site before you buy.
Pros and cons
Visual Studio Code
- Free and open source
- Huge extension ecosystem
- Runs on all major desktop systems
- Heavier than lightweight editors
- AI features may need separate model access
- Extensions vary in quality
XAML.io
- Runs entirely in the browser
- Standard projects open in Visual Studio
- Mix AI, code and visual editing
- Limited to the .NET and XAML stack
- Homepage gives few details on limits
- Paid plan details unclear
Which one should you choose?
Choose Visual Studio Code if you want:
- Free and open source
- Huge extension ecosystem
- Runs on all major desktop systems
Watch out: heavier than lightweight editors.
Choose XAML.io if you want:
- Runs entirely in the browser
- Standard projects open in Visual Studio
- Mix AI, code and visual editing
Watch out: limited to the .net and xaml stack.
Visual Studio Code vs XAML.io FAQ
What is the difference between Visual Studio Code and XAML.io?
Visual Studio Code: Free open-source editor with built-in AI agents for coding. XAML.io: Build .NET apps in the browser with AI, C#/XAML code or a visual designer. Both are coding tools.
Is Visual Studio Code or XAML.io cheaper?
Visual Studio Code is completely free, while XAML.io is freemium.
Do Visual Studio Code and XAML.io have free plans?
Visual Studio Code: Yes, fully free. XAML.io: Yes.
Who makes Visual Studio Code?
Visual Studio Code is made by Microsoft, based in United States.
Who makes XAML.io?
XAML.io is made by Userware.
Which should I choose, Visual Studio Code or XAML.io?
Choose Visual Studio Code if you value free and open source and huge extension ecosystem. Choose XAML.io if you value runs entirely in the browser and standard projects open in visual studio.