NetBeans Platform

Status: Production-ready, Mature

Java Version: 8+

Learning Curve: Steep

Last Release: Active

The NetBeans Platform is a full Rich Client Platform (RCP) for building modular desktop applications. NetBeans IDE itself is built on this platform, demonstrating its scalability for large, complex applications. The platform provides 100+ modules covering window management, auto-update systems, file system abstractions, wizards, property sheets, and more. It's Swing-based and includes the Matisse visual GUI builder for drag-and-drop interface design. If you're building complex, modular desktop applications that need plugin architectures and extensive built-in services, NetBeans Platform provides a comprehensive foundation.

Code Example

import org.openide.modules.ModuleInstall;
            import org.openide.windows.WindowManager;
            import javax.swing.JLabel;
            import java.awt.BorderLayout;
            
            public class HelloNetBeans extends ModuleInstall {
                @Override
                public void restored() {
                    WindowManager.getDefault().invokeWhenUIReady(() -> {
                        TopComponent tc = new TopComponent();
                        tc.setLayout(new BorderLayout());
                        tc.add(new JLabel("Hello, NetBeans Platform!"), BorderLayout.CENTER);
                        tc.setDisplayName("Hello Example");
                        tc.open();
                        tc.requestActive();
                    });
                }
            }