Leaving Visual Studio? Here's everything you need
Compare 1 EU alternatives side-by-side. Find the right fit based on migration difficulty, pricing, and privacy features.
Your data may be subject to US surveillance laws
Visual Studio is headquartered in the US. Under the CLOUD Act and FISA Section 702, US authorities can access your data without your knowledge. Switch to an EU alternative to keep your data protected under GDPR.
All EU Alternatives at a Glance
| Alternative | Country | Pricing | Difficulty | Time Estimate | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
JetBrainsRecommended JetBrains is a cutting-edge software vendor specializing in the creation of intelligent development tools, including IntelliJ IDEA – the leading Java IDE, and the Kotlin programming language. | 🇪🇺EU | Subscription | Medium | 2-4 hours |
Our Top Picks
Best for Privacy
JetBrains is a cutting-edge software vendor specializing in the creation of intelligent development tools, including IntelliJ IDEA – the leading Java IDE, and the Kotlin programming language.
Certifications:
Migration difficulty data is being enriched for these alternatives.
Detailed Comparison of Each Alternative
JetBrains is a cutting-edge software vendor specializing in the creation of intelligent development tools, including IntelliJ IDEA – the leading Java IDE, and the Kotlin programming language.
Advantages
- GDPR compliance ensures data protection in the EU.
- IntelliJ IDEA excels in Java development with advanced refactoring.
- Kotlin support is native, enhancing development for Android apps.
- JetBrains offers open-source tools, fostering community collaboration.
Trade-offs
- Migration from Visual Studio can be time-consuming.
- JetBrains lacks built-in Azure cloud integration.
- Learning curve for IntelliJ IDEA's unique interface.
Before You Switch
Export your data from Visual Studio before you start the migration. This ensures you have a backup and makes the transition smoother.
General Data Export Steps
- 1Log into your Visual Studio account and navigate to Settings or Privacy.
- 2Look for "Download your data", "Export", or "Data portability" options.
- 3Select all data you want to export and choose a standard format (ZIP, CSV, JSON).
- 4Wait for the export to complete — large accounts may take hours or days.
- 5Download and verify the export before proceeding with migration.
Under GDPR Article 20, you have the right to data portability. Visual Studio is required to provide your data in a structured, commonly used format upon request.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best EU alternatives to Visual Studio?
There are 1 European alternatives to Visual Studio. JetBrains are among the top-rated options. All are GDPR-compliant and store your data in European data centers.
How long does it take to switch from Visual Studio?
Migration time varies by alternative. Most migrations can be completed in under an hour with our step-by-step guides. We provide detailed migration guides for each alternative.
Can I export my data from Visual Studio?
Yes, most services including Visual Studio allow you to export your data. Check the settings or privacy section of your Visual Studio account for data export options. GDPR also grants you the right to data portability.
Is switching from Visual Studio to an EU alternative safe?
Yes, switching is safe when done correctly. We recommend: 1) Export your data from Visual Studio first, 2) Set up the new EU service, 3) Import your data, 4) Run both services in parallel for a transition period, 5) Update any linked accounts or integrations, and 6) Cancel your Visual Studio subscription only after verifying everything works.
Why should I switch from Visual Studio to an EU alternative?
EU alternatives provide stronger privacy protection under GDPR, keep your data in European data centers, and are not subject to US surveillance laws like the CLOUD Act or FISA Section 702. By switching, you gain true data sovereignty and support European tech innovation.