Lightweight VS: rethinking Visual Studio default experience

An extension that simplifies the default layout by surfacing the tools developers use most. Visual Studio has grown over decades to support a wide range of languages, frameworks, and development scenarios. While that flexibility is one of its greatest strengths, many developers interact with only a fraction of the available functionality. Lightweight VS explores a different approach. By rethinking what is visible by default, this extension aims to create a cleaner starting point that reflects how developers work today, while keeping additional functionality available when needed. Install Lightweight VS to try an alternative experience and help shape the future of Visual Studio.

A focused top-level menu

Lightweight VS prioritizes commonly used workflows and reduces the number of options shown by default.

A more intentional main toolbar

Frequently used commands are surfaced by default, helping developers access common actions without navigating a crowded command surface. Your original toolbar state can be restored at any time.

A focused workspace

Tool windows and layouts better support common development tasks and AI-workflows while reducing visual noise.

Experimental by design

Lightweight VS is an exploration, not a replacement for Visual Studio. As the project evolves, concepts may change based on research findings, feedback, and validation with developers. Your feedback is important to keep evolving the experience.