30+ Essential WordPress Developer Tools for Your Projects in 2024

WordPress comes with power-packed customization capabilities right out of the box, however, to create a completely effective website, it’s frequently necessary to find more tools, plugins, and resources. Fortunately, there are a ton of third-party development tools and solutions available for expanding WordPress’s functionality and optimizing productivity. 

Whether it’s a personal blog or a large eCommerce site, these tools ensure the project is flexible and scalable.

And do you know? A lot of these tools are free, or have free versions available!

All you have to do is pick the best ones for your project. Today, we’ll highlight the advantages of obtaining WordPress development tools, the top tools available, and how to select the best WordPress development tools for your projects.

We’ll cover the full spectrum of WordPress developer tools, to help you make the right decision.   

Let’s get to it. 

Benefits of Using WordPress Development Tools 

1. Clean & organized code

Selecting the right WordPress development tools is crucial for fostering clean and organized code, which in turn enhances the efficiency and maintainability of the overall WordPress development process. It also leads to an overall improvement in the website’s quality and a reduced likelihood of bugs and errors. 

2. Collaboration Made Easy

Comprehensive collaboration is essential to the success of every project and is at its core. The WordPress developer toolkit includes version control systems and collaboration platforms that facilitate smooth collaboration between different developers. This promotes improved communication, code sharing, and more effective project management overall. It is especially useful for teams who work remotely or across multiple time zones.

3. Speed up the development process

WordPress development tools help to speed up the development process by providing libraries, frameworks, and other resources. To expedite the time to market and minimize development time and effort, these resources offer pre-built capabilities, design components, and templates.

4. Flexibility & customizations at the core

Every business is different, so flexibility and customizations are the need of the hour. The WordPress development toolkit includes a range of tools to enhance the customization and flexibility of the project. It assists in creating distinctive designs and features that are adapted to certain project specifications, making your websites stand out and satisfy the expectations of the client.

5. Improved Website Functionality

WordPress developer tools for performance optimization, such as caching plugins, enable you to easily improve the speed and responsiveness of your WordPress website. It assists you in lowering load times and streamlining server queries, all of which can enhance user experience (UX), boost search engine rankings, and increase brand awareness.

6. Enhanced Security

In these digital dynamics, where every website is exposed to security threats and bugs, security becomes very important. But WordPress development tools come to your rescue and offer security plugins and monitoring utilities. It supports the defence of your websites against malware attacks, common vulnerabilities, and unwanted access. Regular upgrades and security checks can help to ensure the website’s integrity.

7. Future-proofing and scalability

Scalability is a key consideration in the construction of any WordPress development tool. To guarantee that your website is future-proof and scalable – that is, that it can expand and change to meet evolving needs – you can select the appropriate developer tools. As the website develops, its future-proofing reduces the need for significant changes or complete revamping.

8. Constant Improvement on the go

Development tools are frequently updated and improved, introducing new capabilities and addressing concerns. These resources assist developers in keeping abreast of WordPress’s most recent developments. So they can ensure that their websites benefit from the most recent updates and continuous developments.

Best WordPress Developer Tools to Explore in 2024 

# WordPress Design Tools

1. MeasureIT

MeasureIt is a browser extension that shows you the width, height, and alignment of page items in pixels. Chrome users, on the other hand, may obtain the same feature via Dimensions, which enables you to measure the following elements: photos, input fields, buttons, videos, gifs, text, and icons. You can measure whatever you see in the browser.

2. FontPair

FontPair is a great tool for WordPress developers looking to identify the best font pairing for their projects. It’s easy to use and free of cost; simply type in a few words, and the FontPair algorithm will provide you with a list of beautiful font combinations that you can use in your work.

With FontPair, you no longer have to spend hours looking through Google Fonts or dealing with complicated license concerns. Just choose the font type you want, and FontPair will carefully choose a few premium fonts that are ideal for your project, saving you a ton of time in the process.

3. Theme Check 

Theme Check is an indispensable tool for any WordPress theme developer, regardless of years of experience. No matter how much experience you have, there are situations where it’s easy to overlook a small error that could cause issues down the road. The Theme Check plugin prevents these mistakes by checking everything to guarantee that your theme adheres to the most recent recommendations and best practices.

4. InVision Studio

InVision Studio is a screen design tool that allows designers to create interactive prototypes and animations for WordPress websites. It offers features like responsive design, animation tools, and collaboration features, making it ideal for creating engaging user experiences. 

5. Elementor

Elementor is a popular WordPress page builder plugin that helps WordPress designers create custom layouts and designs for WordPress websites using a visual drag-and-drop interface. It offers features like pre-designed templates, widgets, and responsive editing tools, making it a powerful tool for website design without coding.  

# General WordPress Development Tools

6. WP-CLI

WP-CLI is a command-line interface for administering WordPress installations. It can be used to carry out routine operations including setting up and maintaining WordPress, controlling themes and plugins, and producing and organizing content.

In addition to basic commands to administer WordPress installations, WP-CLI contains a variety of community-contributed commands for popular plugins and themes like WooCommerce, Jetpack, Yoast SEO, and many more. 

7. Notepad++

You get a fantastic text editor, syntax emphasizing, plugin maintenance, and much more with Notepad++. It has features unique to developers, like support for around 80 programming languages, auto-completion capabilities, tabbed and split windows, and a function list that lets you quickly inspect every function in a file at a glance.

Furthermore, Notepad++ is a great option if you are an experienced coder who works with HTML, Batch, and C++.

8. GenerateWP

GenerateWP is a very useful tool for WordPress experts looking for a quick and easy way to create website layouts. GenerateWP makes it simple and easy for users to generate the whole layout of their WordPress website by giving them a brief skeleton of the site. GenerateWP has a comprehensive range of features that allow users to employ shortcodes, taxonomies, custom post kinds, and a variety of other vital WordPress aspects.

9. FileZilla

FileZilla is an additional WordPress development tool that you have to take into account. With the help of this FTP client, you can easily establish a connection with the server hosting your website and modify the structure of your WordPress installation. This is also required to install some plugins and add-ons. 10. Postman

One of the greatest WordPress development tools of 2021 is Postman. It is a fantastic tool for any API developer looking for a robust, feature-rich solution for their API workflow. Postnam makes the process of developing an API easier to understand and facilitates teamwork, allowing you to produce better APIs more quickly. Postman has a great emphasis on testing and is very user-friendly.

10. InstaWP

InstaWP is an innovative and quick WordPress sandbox setup tool. With a single click, users can build a temporary WordPress site, whether from scratch or using one of the pre-designed templates. Users only need to click the “Try For Free” button to quickly set up a demo site and start using WordPress right away.

Users can choose any PHP or WordPress version they choose, and even customize the setup to suit their requirements.

11. Advanced Custom Fields  

Advanced Custom Fields is a WordPress plugin that lets you create custom fields on your site. It can be used to hold any kind of data that you want to display. You can use custom fields to store data about your pages, posts, and custom post kinds. Once a custom field has been defined, you may use template tags or shortcodes to show its value on your website.

12. Loops & Logic 

In situations where the theme or builder does not provide the necessary options, WordPress developers can utilize Loops & Logic to have complete control over how WordPress content is displayed on the front end of your website. With this plugin, you may use a simplified HTML-like syntax that is familiar to all front-end developers to create custom PHP themes and builder modules.

# IDEs (Integrated Development Environments)

13. WAMP 

WAMP, which stands for Windows, Apache, MySQL, and PHP, is a flexible environment for developing websites. You may use WordPress to build websites and online apps with this WAMP. Additionally, WAMP provides an easy-to-use interface for virtual host configuration, database management, and server activity monitoring. 

14. Visual Studio Code 

Visual Studio Code is a lightweight and flexible code editor that is especially useful for WordPress development. It provides necessary features like IntelliSense and syntax highlighting, which tremendously help developers create code for WordPress websites more quickly. This WordPress development tool works perfectly with version control systems. That means seamless collaboration between developers and clients on every project.

15. Sublime Text 

Sublime Text is a lightweight and customizable code editor. With this WordPress development tool, you may edit and write PHP code in a simple yet effective environment. It increases the readability and effectiveness of the code. Extensions allow developers to enhance and adapt their editing experience. Sublime text makes it simple for developers to find and alter code across big code bases. It works with Linux, macOS, and Windows and is cross-platform.

# Virtual Servers

16. Docker 

Docker is an open-source local WordPress development solution that allows you to construct self-contained and isolated environments. Docker creates and manages containers—lightweight, autonomous environments—using containerization technology. 

Additionally, Docker allows developers to quickly and simply set up a local development environment without the need to install and configure each component separately. Furthermore, it offers constant behaviour independent of the underlying infrastructure.

17. XAMPP

XAMPP is an open-source virtual server solution that allows developers to create local development environments with Apache, MySQL, PHP, and Perl. It provides a comprehensive stack for WordPress development and is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. XAMPP is widely used for its simplicity and versatility, making it suitable for developers of all skill levels.

18. Vagrant

Vagrant is a powerful tool for building and managing virtualized development environments. It allows developers to define development environments as code using configuration files, known as Vagrantfiles. With Vagrant, developers can easily replicate production environments on their local machines, ensuring consistency across development, staging, and production environments.

# Preprocessors

19. CodeKit

CodeKit is a versatile preprocessing tool that supports various preprocessors such as Sass, LESS, and Stylus. It offers features like automatic compilation, browser refreshing, and optimization of assets like CSS and JavaScript. CodeKit integrates seamlessly with WordPress development workflows, allowing developers to focus on writing clean and efficient code.

20. Prepros

Prepros is another popular preprocessing tool that simplifies the compilation of Sass, LESS, and other preprocessors. It provides live browser reloading, image optimization, and CSS auto prefixing, making it a valuable asset for WordPress developers seeking to streamline their development process. It includes advanced features like multi-device testing and error notifications, to improve the overall development experience.  

21. Webpack 

Webpack is a powerful module bundler that can also be used for preprocessing CSS with tools like Sass or LESS. While it requires a deeper understanding of configuration compared to other tools, Webpack offers advanced features like code splitting, tree shaking, and hot module replacement, making it a preferred choice for complex WordPress projects that require efficient asset management.

22. PostCSS

PostCSS is a versatile tool that can be used for both preprocessing CSS and applying transformations to CSS files. It supports a wide range of plugins for tasks like auto prefixing, minification, and even future CSS syntax features. WordPress developers can leverage PostCSS to enhance their CSS preprocessing workflow and optimize the performance of their WordPress themes and plugins.

# Browser Plugins & Extensions

23. Chrome DevTools

With this Chrome browser add-on, you can instantly alter any website. The kit also contains a debugger. When it comes to finding a web aid that will ensure your security and successfully enhance your development, Chrome DevTools are highly recommended.

You can identify and inspect all loaded scripts, alter the DOM in real time, and see how long it takes for elements to load with the Chrome DevTool package.

24. Lighthouse

Lighthouse is a powerful Chrome DevTools extension that helps with automated audits to improve the quality of web pages. It analyzes web pages based on diverse criteria, including performance, accessibility, SEO, and best practices, and generates detailed reports with actionable recommendations for optimization. Lighthouse is invaluable for ensuring that WordPress websites meet industry standards and provide an optimal user experience.

25. Web Developer Extension 

The Web Developer extension is available for both Chrome and Firefox browsers and offers a wide range of tools for web development. It includes features for manipulating HTML and CSS, debugging JavaScript, analyzing page structure, and testing website accessibility. The extension provides quick access to common development tasks and is highly customizable to suit individual workflow preferences.

# Testing & Debugging Tools

26. WP Umbrella

The most feature-rich WordPress monitoring plugin is WP Umbrella. With the aid of this plugin, you can keep track of and spot PHP issues, averting both security threats and subpar performance. This is the best way to diagnose PHP issues and ensure a seamless launch of web projects. It also keeps an eye on your website’s performance and uptime. 

It also provides every feature you might need (safe update, automated backup, etc.) to easily manage multiple WordPress sites.

27. Query Monitor

It is a free troubleshooting and development plugin for WordPress. Query Monitor allows you to debug database queries, PHP errors, hooks and actions, block editor blocks, enqueued scripts and stylesheets, HTTP API requests, and more. Query Monitor displays information in an understandable manner, such as aggregate database requests by plugin, theme, WordPress core, or function.

28. Uptime Robot

It is critical to ensure that your website is operational the great majority of the time (and that your hosting provider keeps its uptime guarantees). This is why having a tool like Uptime Robot, which keeps track of your site’s availability and notifies you when it goes down, is so important.

29. PHP Code Sniffer

PHP Code Sniffer is a must-have tool for WordPress developers working on complex projects that require many programming and scripting languages. When working on complex coding assignments, there is a greater chance of mistakes and problems. This robust tool improves code quality and expedites the development process by effectively detecting mixed code scripts and quickly alerting users to potential code issues.

# Productivity Tools

30. WP project manager 

Bigger projects need multiple sets of minds to complete, yet leading that team can be extremely difficult. With the use of WP Project Manager, a large team can communicate, work together, and overcome any obstacle.

It allows any user to list tasks, create to-do lists, and delete completed jobs. Additionally, this application maintains a log of both completed and unfinished tasks. Any user may list tasks, make to-do lists, and remove completed projects with the help of WordPress Project Manager. Additionally, this application maintains a log of both completed and unfinished tasks.

31. Toggll 

Toggl is an excellent time tracker as well. Toggl is designed to be quick and simple to use. You may use it on a Mac, Linux, Windows, iPhone, and Android device, and your time entries are synchronized in real time. Furthermore, Toggl is integrated with Trello, Asana, and other productivity apps that you love. Toggl has both a free and a paid plan; the cost of the paid plan is $9 per user per month. 

32. Atarim 

WordPress developers can utilize Atarim, a great application, to manage their workflows more effectively. The platform facilitates the management of client requests for developers. Clients can offer comments on site screenshots, allowing developers to understand their requirements and make changes more efficiently. It is even accessible in a free form and is hosted in the cloud. With Atarim, obtaining precise information from clients is more simpler and effective.

33. WP ERP

WP ERP is an enterprise resource planning plugin for WordPress that helps with end-to-end project management. It allows teams to create projects, assign tasks, track time, and generate reports, all within the WordPress dashboard. WP ERP integrates with other popular WordPress plugins like WooCommerce and BuddyPress, making it a comprehensive solution for managing WordPress-based businesses.

How to Choose the Best Set of WordPress Tools for Your Project?

To get the most out of the WordPress developer tools for your WordPress project, you need to select the best ones. Choosing the right and relevant tools can significantly impact the success and efficiency of your project. If you are looking for the ultimate guide to choose the best tools, then read out the following points. 

1. Project Scope and Requirements Analysis: The very step in choosing the right WordPress developer tools is accessing your requirements. Begin by conducting a comprehensive analysis of your project’s scope and requirements. Consider factors such as the complexity of the website, desired functionalities, anticipated traffic volume, and scalability needs. Understanding these aspects will help you make the right move. 

1. Market Research and Tool Evaluation: After analyzing your business requirements, you need to do market research to identify the available tools and technologies in the WordPress development landscape. 
2. Evaluate each tool based on its features, functionalities, user interface, compatibility with WordPress versions, and overall reputation within the developer community. Look for tools that align closely with your project requirements and are known for their reliability and effectiveness.
3. Compatibility and Integration Considerations: Another consideration that you need to consider while choosing a WordPress developer is that your selected tools can seamlessly integrate with WordPress and any other technologies or frameworks that are part of your development stack. Compatibility issues can lead to inefficiencies and roadblocks during the development process, so it’s essential to prioritize tools that are easily integratable and offer smooth integrations. 
4. Community Support and Documentation Quality: While choosing the tools for your WordPress project, you also need to look after the community support and documentation of that particular tool. It is quite important because a vibrant community can provide invaluable support, troubleshooting assistance, and access to helpful resources. Additionally, comprehensive documentation can expedite the learning curve and facilitate efficient utilization of the chosen tools. 
5. Cost Analysis and Licensing Considerations: Budget, costing, and licenses are some of the crucial considerations when choosing tools for your project. You need to consider the cost implications associated with each tool, including upfront fees, subscription models, or licensing terms. Determine whether the investment aligns with your budget constraints and long-term project goals. Additionally, assess any licensing restrictions or usage limitations that may impact your ability to utilize the tool effectively. 
6. Trial Period and User Feedback: Whenever possible, take advantage of trial periods or demo versions offered by tool providers to gain hands-on experience with the software. Solicit feedback from experienced developers or peers who have used similar tools in their projects. Their insights and recommendations can offer valuable perspectives and help you make informed decisions.
7. Security: Prioritize tools that adhere to stringent security standards and have a proven track record of reliability. Security vulnerabilities or instability in tools can compromise the integrity of your WordPress site and expose it to potential threats. Conduct thorough due diligence to ensure that the chosen tools prioritize security and reliability. 
8. Flexibility and Customization Options: In the end, don’t forget the flexibility and customizations. In this competitive environment, you need to look for tools that are highly flexible and adaptable to your business requirements. 

To Conclude 

Here’s a comprehensive list of the best 30+ WordPress developer tools that you should know about. You just need to make sure to understand your project requirements and get your hands on these popular WordPress developer tools. With a well-curated toolkit, developers can drastically enhance efficiency, streamline activities, and simplify their work lives while also keeping their clients satisfied.  

They can manage diverse aspects such as project management testing, virtual servers, designing, and coding, among other things. 

So, don’t hesitate to delve deeper into these tools and give them a try to unlock their full potential and elevate your WordPress development experience. If you are looking for assistance you should get in touch with our WordPress development experts, who can help you choose the right set of tools for your WordPress development projects.

Our skilled team of WordPress developers dives deep into the client’s requirements and provides comprehensive assistance accordingly. Feel free to connect with us…

FAQs

Girish Panchal

Technical Architect

A Technical Architect, proficient in WordPress, Drupal, Laravel, and DevOps tasks, crafts robust IT solutions with a blend of expertise and versatility in web development and infrastructure management.

Interact With Me