
Some older libraries or specialized boards perform more reliably on the Java-based 1.8 architecture.
It typically opens faster and uses fewer system resources than the Electron-based 2.0 version. Installation Guide Bring Your Projects to Life with Arduino Software
While Arduino IDE 2.0 offers modern features like autocomplete and a built-in debugger, the 1.8 series remains popular for several reasons:
The Arduino IDE 1.8 (specifically version ) is officially classified as the "Legacy IDE." While a newer version exists, many developers still choose to download 1.8 for its legendary stability, lower system requirements, and full support for older hardware. Official Download Links for Arduino 1.8.19
The ZIP version allows you to create a "portable" folder, keeping all your libraries and settings in one place, which is perfect for working across different computers.
You can find all official legacy versions on the Arduino Software page under the "Legacy IDE (1.8.19)" section.
It is a mature platform with fewer bugs than the complete rewrite seen in 2.0.
Linux 64 bits and Linux ARM (32/64 bit) versions for Raspberry Pi users. Why Download 1.8 Over 2.0?