How to upgrade: Save and import settings when upgrading PyCharm

Question

How can settings be saved and imported when upgrading from PyCharm 2023 to PyCharm 2025?

Answer

Upgrading from PyCharm 2023 to PyCharm 2025 is straightforward, and settings can be preserved using one of the following methods:

1. Automatic Import During Installation:

   • When PyCharm 2025 is installed and launched for the first time, the IDE detects previous installations and prompts to import settings.
   • Settings can be imported from the previous PyCharm version or from a custom settings directory.

2. Manual Export and Import:

   • Export settings from PyCharm 2023:
     • Navigate to File | Manage IDE Settings | Export Settings.
     • Save the generated .zip file.
   • Import settings to PyCharm 2025:
     • Navigate to File | Manage IDE Settings | Import Settings.
     • Select the previously exported .zip file.

3. JetBrains Account Synchronization:

   • If signed in with a JetBrains Account and settings synchronization is enabled, settings will sync automatically after signing in to PyCharm 2025.

Additional Notes:

• It is not necessary to uninstall PyCharm 2023 before installing PyCharm 2025.
• It is recommended to install PyCharm 2025 first, verify that all functionality works as expected, and then remove the older version if desired.