Our verdict: PhpStorm understands PHP projects more deeply than any editor with plugins: type inference, refactoring, framework-aware navigation and a debugger that can set up Xdebug for you. It also covers JavaScript, TypeScript and databases, so one IDE handles a whole web project. There is no free version after the 30-day trial, and VS Code with PHP extensions is a free if less capable option.
About PhpStorm
PhpStorm is JetBrains' IntelliJ-based IDE for PHP. Its editor offers completion, type inference, instant error detection and refactorings for plain PHP, and adds coding assistance, code generation and navigation for Laravel, Symfony and WordPress. The debugger can configure and validate Xdebug, including remote debugging over SSH and profiling, and built-in test support covers PHPUnit, Pest, Behat, Codeception and phpspec with coverage.
From WebStorm it inherits support for JavaScript, TypeScript and other frontend technologies, and it includes database tools for MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB and SQLite. The 30-day trial includes all features; after it ends you need a paid license. The individual subscription on the official pricing page costs €109 for the first year, €87 for the second and €65 from the third, and students and teachers can apply for free educational licenses.
What it does well
- PHP code insight. Completion, type inference, inspections and refactoring for PHP code.
- Framework support. Navigation and code generation for Laravel, Symfony and WordPress.
- Xdebug debugger. Sets up and validates Xdebug, with remote debugging and profiling.
- Testing tools. Runs PHPUnit, Pest, Behat, Codeception and phpspec with coverage.
- Frontend and databases. JavaScript, TypeScript and SQL tools for MySQL, PostgreSQL and more.
Who it is for
Good fit
Professional PHP and Laravel, Symfony or WordPress developers who work on large codebases.
Look elsewhere
Hobbyists who do not want a subscription, people who only edit a few PHP files, and low-RAM PCs.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Deep understanding of PHP and its frameworks
- Guided Xdebug setup
- Frontend and database tools included
- Strong test runner with coverage
Cons
- Stops working after the 30-day trial without a paid license
- No free non-commercial license, unlike WebStorm or Rider
- Uses a lot of RAM and indexes large projects slowly
How to install PhpStorm
Install PHP separately, for example through XAMPP or Laragon, and point PhpStorm to the php.exe interpreter under Settings > PHP. Download the Windows installer from jetbrains.com or use the JetBrains Toolbox App for updates. The 30-day trial starts on first launch; activate a license under Help > Register when it ends.
Questions about PhpStorm
Is PhpStorm free?
No. PhpStorm has a free 30-day trial with all features. After that you need a subscription: €109 for the first year for individuals on the official pricing page. Students and teachers can apply for free educational licenses.
Does PhpStorm include PHP?
No. Install PHP yourself, for example with XAMPP or Laragon, then select the interpreter in PhpStorm's settings.
Is there a free alternative to PhpStorm?
Visual Studio Code with PHP extensions is free, but its refactoring and framework support are less complete.
