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Editor Comparison: Which One To Use

Different editors for different needs. Learn when to use which.

Here's the thing: Use the right editor for the job. Don't force one editor for everything.

The Editors​

nano: Simple and Quick​

Use when:

  • Quick edits
  • Simple changes
  • Learning Linux
  • Don't need power

My take: nano is simple. Use it for quick edits. Don't overthink it.

vim: Powerful and Universal​

Use when:

  • Editing on servers
  • Need power
  • Comfortable with it
  • Complex edits

My take: vim is powerful. Learn it. Use it on servers. It's everywhere.

GUI Editors: VS Code, etc.​

Use when:

  • Local development
  • Need features
  • Comfortable with GUI
  • Not on servers

My take: GUI editors are fine for local work. But learn vim for servers.

Comparison​

FeaturenanovimGUI Editors
Learning CurveEasySteepEasy
Available EverywhereUsuallyAlwaysRarely
PowerLowHighHigh
SpeedSlowFastMedium
Remote EditingYesYesNo

My take: Each has strengths. Use what fits the situation.

My Recommendation​

For beginners: Start with nano. Learn basics. Then learn vim.

For servers: Learn vim. It's always there. It's powerful.

For local work: Use GUI editors. They're easier. More features.

My take: Learn both nano and vim. Use GUI for local. Use vim for servers.

Common Patterns​

Quick Config Edit​

nano /etc/nginx/nginx.conf

Server Editing​

vim /etc/nginx/nginx.conf

Local Development​

code project/

What's Next?​

Now that you understand editors, you can choose the right one. Or review Text Editors to learn vim.

Personal note: I used to use only GUI editors. Then I had to edit on servers. I learned vim. Now I use vim on servers, GUI for local. Use the right tool for the job.