PowerBASIC
PowerBASIC is a commercial programming language for developing Windows, Linux, macOS, and DOS applications. It provides a BASIC-like syntax that compiles to native code for high performance.
basic
windows
linux
macos
dos
PowerBASIC: Commercial Programming Language
A commercial programming language for developing Windows, Linux, macOS, and DOS applications with a BASIC-like syntax that compiles to native code for high performance.
What is PowerBASIC?
PowerBASIC is a commercial programming language designed for developing applications on Windows, Linux, macOS, and DOS platforms. First released in 1991 by Blaise Computing, PowerBASIC provides a BASIC-like syntax that compiles to native machine code for high performance.
Some key features of PowerBASIC include:
- Rapid application development environment for building GUI, console, and web apps
- BASIC-like syntax that is easy to learn
- Compiler generates fast native code (x86 and x64)
- Small executable sizes
- Built-in IDE and debugger
- Inline Assembly support
- COM/ActiveX support
- Database access via ADO, ODBC and DLLs
- Royalty-free deployment with generated apps
PowerBASIC is well-suited for a wide range of Windows application development including business, productivity, system administration, engineering, prototyping, and more. The easy syntax allows beginners to quickly build usable programs while the fast compiled execution speed is attractive for commercial projects.
PowerBASIC Features
Features
- Rapid application development environment
- Compile to native, optimized executables and DLLs
- Integrated debugger
- GUI designer and controls
- Database access and reporting tools
- File I/O, networking, serial, printing, and multimedia support
- Inline assembly language support
- Royalty-free runtime libraries
Pricing
- One-time Purchase
Pros
Very fast compile and execution speeds
Small executable sizes
Powerful language features
Backwards compatibility with older versions
Active user community and support
Cons
Windows-only (no cross-platform support)
Steep learning curve compared to other BASICs
Limited adoption outside niche user base
No major updates in recent years
Official Links
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