VSCodium – Free/Libre Open Source Software Binaries of VS Code (vscodium.com)

Article summary

VSCodium is a community-driven, freely-licensed binary distribution of Microsoft's Visual Studio Code (VS Code) editor. The project exists because Microsoft's VS Code contains telemetry and tracking, which is not present in the open-source version. VSCodium provides a way to download and install the open-source version of VS Code without having to build it from source. The project offers various installation methods, including package managers and a flatpak option.

Main themes

• VSCodium and VS Code
• Proprietary vs Open-Source Software
• Telemetry and Security
• Remote Development and SSH
• Freedom and Independence in Software Choice
• Convenience vs Control in Workflow Management

What commenters say

• Some users find the remote SSH extension in VS Code to be indispensable and are hesitant to switch to VSCodium, which does not support it.
• The use of proprietary software, such as Microsoft's VS Code, can lead to dependence on corporate interests and potential workflow disruptions.
• The telemetry in VS Code can be turned off and is not a significant concern for some users, who prioritize the convenience and functionality of the editor.
• Others argue that the security risks associated with proprietary software, including potential hidden backdoors, outweigh any benefits.
• The availability of alternative, open-source solutions, such as Code-Server, can mitigate the need for proprietary extensions like remote SSH.
• Some users prioritize the use of free and open-source software, even if it requires more effort to set up and use, in order to maintain independence from corporate interests.
• The trade-off between convenience and freedom from proprietary software is a key consideration for many users, with some willing to accept limitations in exchange for greater control over their workflow.