Plugins guide

Best PyCharm plugins for Windows — install & manage guide 2026

PyCharm plugins extend the IDE with new language support, themes and tools. Install them via Settings → Plugins → Marketplace. The best free plugins for Python development: Rainbow Brackets, GitToolBox, Key Promoter X and IdeaVim.

Best PyCharm plugins for Windows 2026

PluginWhat it doesFree
Rainbow BracketsColorises matching brackets — makes nested code readableYes
GitToolBoxAdds inline Git blame, auto-fetch and branch info in status barYes
Key Promoter XShows keyboard shortcut tip when you use mouseYes
IdeaVimVim key bindings inside PyCharmYes
.env files supportSyntax highlighting for .env filesYes
Makefile LanguageSyntax support for MakefilesYes
CSV EditorSpreadsheet-style editor for CSV filesYes
DockerDocker integration (Community, limited)Yes
GitHub CopilotAI code completion from GitHubPaid (subscription)
TabnineAI code completion alternativeFree tier

How to install plugins in PyCharm on Windows

  • 1

    Open Plugins settings

    File → Settings (Ctrl+Alt+S) → Plugins → click the Marketplace tab.

  • 2

    Search and install

    Type the plugin name in the search box. Click Install on the result. PyCharm may ask to restart.

Plugin questions

PyCharm plugin not working after install

Most plugins require a PyCharm restart. If still not working: File → Invalidate Caches → Invalidate and Restart. If the plugin conflicts with another, try disabling other plugins one by one to find the conflict.

Which AI plugin is best for PyCharm?

In 2026, the main options are GitHub Copilot (best quality, requires GitHub subscription), Tabnine (good free tier), and JetBrains AI (built into recent versions). For most developers, GitHub Copilot gives the best completion quality.

Slow after installing plugins?

Speed up PyCharm — disable unused plugins.

Speed up guide