How to choose a MicroController

Step 5 Thoughts about Software Tools

All of the microcontrollers mentioned here have some level of standard tools (at least an assembler) provided by the manufacturer. Most have "Integrated Development Environments" (IDE) that allow integrated use of an editor (that you won't like) with the assembler, some compilers, and a simulator (of perhaps limited value.) Some have significant additional support from the open source movement.

Tools from manufacturers aren't always great, but you appreciate them more after you've tried to use a microcontroller that doesn't have any such tools available...