List of the Top 4 Software Documentation Tools for Redocly in 2026

Visual Studio Code (VS Code) is an advanced, open-source AI-integrated development environment (IDE) built for productivity, creativity, and collaboration. Designed by Microsoft, it unites code editing, debugging, version control, and AI automation in a single cross-platform workspace. Developers can code in nearly any language—including JavaScript, TypeScript, Python, C++, C#, Java, PHP, and more—using built-in tools or specialized extensions. Its AI features, such as Agent Mode and Next Edit Suggestions, transform VS Code into an autonomous assistant capable of reading entire codebases, suggesting edits, and resolving compile or test issues automatically. With MCP (Model Context Protocol) and multi-model support, developers can use AI models like Claude Sonnet, GPT-4, or Gemini—or connect their own keys via OpenRouter or Azure OpenAI. Deep GitHub integration, remote development, and cloud portability make collaboration effortless across global teams. VS Code’s extensive marketplace offers tens of thousands of extensions—from Docker to Jupyter and Stripe—empowering developers to build and deploy in any environment. Custom profiles, themes, and settings sync allow for a personalized workspace across devices. Its integrated terminal, local history, and debugging tools ensure smooth workflows from prototype to production. Whether building enterprise software, web apps, or AI agents, VS Code redefines what a modern coding experience should feel like: intelligent, fast, and universally accessible.

GitHub remains the foremost platform for developers around the world, celebrated for its robust security, impressive scalability, and strong community engagement. By becoming part of the vast network of millions of developers and organizations, you can play a role in creating the software that propels society forward. Engage and collaborate with some of the most innovative communities while taking advantage of our exceptional tools, support, and services. If you are managing multiple contributors, consider utilizing our complimentary GitHub Team for Open Source feature. Furthermore, GitHub Sponsors is designed to help finance your initiatives and projects effectively. We are excited to bring back The Pack, a program that offers students and educators free access to top-notch developer tools throughout the academic year and beyond. In addition, if you are affiliated with a recognized nonprofit, association, or a 501(c)(3) organization, we provide a discounted Organization account to help further your mission. Through these initiatives, GitHub continues to empower a diverse range of users in their software development endeavors, fostering a more inclusive tech community. With ongoing support and resources, GitHub is dedicated to enhancing the development experience for everyone involved.

Boost the productivity of API development for individuals, groups, and large corporations with the comprehensive suite of tools offered by Swagger, both in its open-source and professional versions. Learn how Swagger can facilitate the efficient design and documentation of APIs on an extensive scale. The power of Swagger's tools is anchored in the OpenAPI Specification, which is recognized as the standard for crafting RESTful APIs in the industry. A variety of tools are available to create, edit, and distribute OpenAPI definitions among various stakeholders. To provide extensive support for OpenAPI workflows, SwaggerHub stands out as a scalable platform solution. Countless API developers, teams, and organizations have gained significant advantages from using Swagger's tools to build outstanding APIs. When utilizing Swagger, you are equipped with the most powerful and user-friendly tools that maximize the capabilities of the OpenAPI Specification, ensuring a smooth development process adaptable to changing requirements. This adaptability not only enhances current workflows but also prepares teams for future challenges in API development.

Offer developers a unified platform that encompasses all their essentials, such as your API documentation, instructional materials, example code, and a variety of additional resources. They can directly interact with your API through the documentation and track real-time logs to discern which functions operate effectively and which ones may require enhancements. With a strong desire to delve deeper and experiment, developers are provided with a Try It playground that encourages practical exploration. Moreover, auto-generated code snippets allow for swift integration, and shareable links for each API request make it easier to troubleshoot or ask for assistance. ReadMe hubs can be tailored to be either public or private, providing you with the control to regulate access as needed. When developers access your hub, you gain crucial insights into their actions, such as the guides they have explored or the moment they initiated their first API request. In addition, you can offer customized resources like API keys specifically designed for them. Ensuring that documentation remains current is vital, and with ReadMe, any team member can swiftly make updates. This not only simplifies the modification process but also reduces the burden on engineering teams while ensuring developers always have the latest information at their fingertips. Ultimately, this cultivates a productive ecosystem where developers can excel and innovate, free from unnecessary obstacles, and fosters a sense of community around shared knowledge and resources.