Set up an editor
You can build apps with Flutter using any text editor combined with Flutter’s command-line tools. However, we recommend using one of our editor plugins for an even better experience. These plugins provide you with code completion, syntax highlighting, widget editing assists, run & debug support, and more.
Use the following steps to add an editor plugin for VS Code, Android Studio, IntelliJ, or Emacs. If you want to use a different editor, that’s OK, skip ahead to the next step: Test drive.
Install VS Code
VS Code is a lightweight editor with complete Flutter app execution and debug support.
- VS Code, latest stable version
Install the Flutter and Dart plugins
- Start VS Code.
- Invoke View > Command Palette….
- Type “install”, and select Extensions: Install Extensions.
- Type “flutter” in the extensions search field, select Flutter in the list, and click Install. This also installs the required Dart plugin.
Validate your setup with the Flutter Doctor
- Invoke View > Command Palette….
- Type “doctor”, and select the Flutter: Run Flutter Doctor.
- Review the output in the OUTPUT pane for any issues. Make sure to select Flutter from the dropdown in the different Output Options.
Install Android Studio
Android Studio offers a complete, integrated IDE experience for Flutter.
- Android Studio, version 2020.3.1 (Arctic Fox) or later
Alternatively, you can also use IntelliJ:
- IntelliJ IDEA Community, version 2021.2 or later
- IntelliJ IDEA Ultimate, version 2021.2 or later
Install the Flutter and Dart plugins
The installation instructions vary by platform.
Mac
Use the following instructions for macos:
- Start Android Studio.
- Open plugin preferences (Preferences > Plugins as of v3.6.3.0 or later).
- Select the Flutter plugin and click Install.
- Click Yes when prompted to install the Dart plugin.
- Click Restart when prompted.
Linux or Windows
Use the following instructions for Linux or Windows:
- Open plugin preferences (File > Settings > Plugins).
- Select Marketplace, select the Flutter plugin and click Install.
Install Emacs
Emacs is a lightweight editor with support for Flutter and Dart.
- Emacs, latest stable version
Install the lsp-dart package
For information on how to install and use the package, see the lsp-dart documentation.