UndoTree & RewindCode
UndoTree and RewindCode are two distinct VSCode extensions that reimagine the way developers work with undo and redo operations. While they share a core philosophy, they are built to address different levels of user needs, with UndoTree serving as a foundational tool and RewindCode as its more advanced counterpart.
The Problem with Linear Undo
The traditional undo/redo system in most editors is a simple, linear stack. Once you undo a change and then make a new one, all your previous “future” work is lost forever. This can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you’re experimenting with different ideas, comparing approaches, or simply trying to restore a specific snippet without losing all the work you’ve done since.
The motivation behind these tools was to create a workflow that is non-destructive and exploratory. Developers should be able to jump between past and present without losing any changes. Undo should feel less like a panic button and more like a session-level version control system that works fluidly as you code.
UndoTree: The Minimal, Foundational Tool
UndoTree is designed for developers who want a better undo/redo system without the added complexity of advanced features. It’s built for simplicity and speed, making it perfect for small projects, rapid prototyping, or for anyone who just wants the comfort of knowing they won’t accidentally lose code.
Key Features:
- Non-linear Undo/Redo: Navigate changes using a tree structure instead of a linear stack.
- Quick Save Points: Mark a specific state and continue coding without overwriting your history.
- Reset Tree: Clear your entire history and start fresh.
- Keyboard-First Workflow: Fast keybindings for all core operations.
UndoTree is a stable, production-ready solution that delivers a more robust and forgiving workflow right out of the box.
RewindCode: The Full-Fledged Productivity Suite
RewindCode is the logical next step, building on the tree-based concept and expanding it into a complete session-level version control experience. It’s intended for professional workflows, larger projects, and deep debugging sessions where a more powerful history management system is needed.
Advanced Features (Beyond UndoTree):
- Selective Undo/Redo: Pick a specific code block and restore only its past versions without affecting the rest of the file.
- Function Version Retrieval: Easily view every version of the selected functions across all branches, giving you complete visibility into their evolution.
- Configuration : Ability to configure accoring to your needs .
RewindCode aims to blur the line between in-editor history and lightweight version control. It gives you the power of Git-like navigation and control without ever leaving your coding session, making it a powerful tool for serious development.
Development Philosophy
Both extensions are written in TypeScript and leverage the VSCode Extension API. The codebase for UndoTree is intentionally minimal and easy to maintain, while RewindCode adopts a modular architecture to allow for feature growth without compromising performance.
The goal is not just to improve a function, but to fundamentally change the way developers think about editing history—turning it from a linear undo stack into a creative, explorative tool.
Status and Installation
UndoTree: Stable, production-ready, especially for JavaScript and TypeScript.
RewindCode: In active development with a growing feature set. Fully supports JavaScript and TypeScript, with other languages in a testing phase.
Closing Thoughts
Whether you want the simplicity of UndoTree or the power of RewindCode, these tools are designed to make your coding process more flexible, forgiving, and creative. Undo is no longer just a way to go backward—it’s a way to explore and refine your ideas without the fear of losing your progress.