EmbeddingGemma 2: an open, lightweight multimodal embedding model
deepmind.google·6d ago
AI Engineering
Hacker News·Aug 30·5 min read
Emacs vs. Vim 2026: 24.3% vs. 8% Usage, 20x Memory Gap
TL;DR
As of August 2026, GNU Emacs and Vim continue to dominate the text editor landscape, with Emacs at 24.3% usage and Vim at 8%. Both editors have integrated AI coding tools, but the choice between them hinges on workflow preferences and configuration time.
✦ Why It Matters
Evaluate your text editor choice based on your workflow needs and memory constraints.
Key Takeaways
- Consider Vim for faster startup and lower memory usage.
- Choose Emacs for a comprehensive integrated environment.
- Explore AI tools like GitHub Copilot for both editors.
- Invest time in configuration to maximize editor capabilities.
Full Summary
Vim and Emacs have been stalwarts in the text editor space for decades, each embodying distinct philosophies. Vim, a modal editor, focuses on efficient text manipulation, achieving rapid startup times and low memory usage, making it ideal for remote server editing.
In contrast, Emacs operates as a Lisp environment, allowing extensive customization and integration of various tools like email and task management within a single interface. Recent data shows Vim's popularity at 24.3% among developers, while Emacs lags at around 8%.
Both editors have adapted to modern needs, incorporating AI coding tools like GitHub Copilot. Ultimately, the choice between them hinges on user preferences for speed versus extensibility.