Core Features
Native AI Assistant
Built directly into the editor — no extension overhead:
- Inline Completions: Ghost text suggestions as you type
- AI Chat Panel:
Cmd+Enteropens context-aware conversation - Inline Transform: Select code, describe changes, apply instantly
- Multi-file Edits: AI can edit across multiple files in one operation
GPU-Accelerated Rendering
Written in Rust with GPU rendering via Metal (macOS) and Vulkan (Linux):
| Metric | Zed | VS Code |
|---|---|---|
| Startup time | 150ms | 2-4s |
| Input latency | <1ms | 10-50ms |
| Large file scroll | 120fps | 30-60fps |
| Memory (10 files) | 80MB | 400MB+ |
Multiplayer Editing
Real-time collaboration built into the editor:
1. Share your workspace: Cmd+Shift+P → "Share Project"
2. Teammates join with a link
3. See cursors, selections, and edits in real-time
4. Built-in voice chatModel Configuration
{
"assistant": {
"default_model": {
"provider": "anthropic",
"model": "claude-sonnet-4-20250514"
},
"inline_alternatives": [
{"provider": "ollama", "model": "codestral"}
]
}
}Language Intelligence
Built-in Tree-sitter parsing and LSP support for 40+ languages. No extensions needed for syntax highlighting, code navigation, or refactoring.
Key Stats
- 55,000+ GitHub stars
- Written in Rust, GPU-accelerated
- <1ms input latency
- Native AI assistant (no extensions)
- Real-time multiplayer editing
FAQ
Q: What is Zed? A: Zed is a high-performance code editor written in Rust with native AI integration, GPU-accelerated rendering, and real-time multiplayer editing.
Q: Is Zed free? A: Yes, Zed is free and open-source under GPL/AGPL license. AI features use your own API keys.
Q: Can Zed replace VS Code? A: For many developers, yes. Zed supports extensions, LSP, Tree-sitter, and most VS Code keybindings. It is significantly faster but has a smaller extension ecosystem.