Debugging Rust in 2026

Rust programming language is renowned for its safety, performance, and tooling. However, debugging remains a weak point for many developers. According to the Rust debugging survey 2026, 53.2% of Rust users do not use a debugger at all, while 81.3% prefer using prints for debugging. The setup process for a debugger is also reported to be challenging and not beginner-friendly, particularly when dealing with async and macro features.

The situation in 2026 is better than it was in 2021, when only 36% of users used a debugger. The increase in debugger usage to 46.8% demonstrates progress in this area.

In this report, we will explore the various techniques and tools available for debugging Rust programs, using the Graham scan algorithm as an example. This algorithm computes the convex hull of a set of points in a plane, which can be visualized as stretching a rubber band around a collection of nails.

One common way to debug Rust code is by using unit tests, prints, or dbg! statements. By adding these debugging statements and rerunning the failing test, developers can identify and fix issues. However, this iterative and time-consuming process is not ideal for larger projects.

For more efficient debugging, developers can use tools like rust-lldb or rust-gdb to set breakpoints, inspect variables, and step through the program. In the case of the Graham scan algorithm, a bug was discovered by inspecting the intermediate ordering of points based on their polar angle. Reversing the distance comparison fixed the ordering issue, and the program passed subsequent tests.

For a more user-friendly debugging experience, RustRover, a cross-platform IDE specifically designed for Rust, can be utilized. RustRover integrates Cargo projects, tests, code analysis, and debugging, making it a comprehensive solution for Rust developers. It provides a graphical interface for GDB and LLDB, streamlining the debugging process and offering features such as breakpoints, stepping, watches, and expression evaluation.

An interesting development in the debugging landscape is the integration of AI-assisted debugging tools. While these tools are not a replacement for traditional debuggers, they can help developers understand problems and suggest fixes more efficiently. With the release of RustRover 2026.3, the IDE's integrated MCP server enables AI-assisted debugging through agents like Codex and Claude Code.

By enabling the MCP server and connecting it to an AI agent, developers can automate the debugging process, setting breakpoints, stepping through the program, and evaluating runtime values.

In conclusion, debugging in Rust has evolved significantly over the years, with various techniques and tools available to suit different scenarios. Whether using traditional methods like prints and unit tests or more advanced tools like RustRover and AI-assisted debugging, developers have a range of options to choose from based on their specific needs and preferences.