Focused on building "Windows Store" apps (the tiled apps introduced with Windows 8).
The most defining characteristic of the Express editions, and specifically the 2013 variant, was its modularity. Unlike the "monolithic" Professional edition, which allowed a developer to build a C# web app in the morning and a C++ desktop application in the afternoon, Visual Studio Express 2013 was split into distinct, purpose-built flavors. There was "Express for Web," tailored for ASP.NET and web development; "Express for Windows," designed strictly for Windows Store (WinRT) applications; and perhaps the most beloved, "Express for Windows Desktop." This segmentation was a double-edged sword. It forced a developer to install multiple versions to access the full spectrum of languages, creating a cluttered start menu. However, it also resulted in lightweight environments that booted faster and felt less overwhelming than their premium counterparts. For a student learning C# or a hobbyist building a WPF app, Express for Windows Desktop was a sanctuary—stripped of the server explorers and database diagrams they would never use. vs express 2013
: Targeted at creating classic Win32, C#, and VB.NET desktop applications. Focused on building "Windows Store" apps (the tiled
Supporting older .NET 4.5.x projects that require a specific environment. There was "Express for Web," tailored for ASP
Visual Studio Express 2013 is a powerful, free IDE that provides a comprehensive platform for Windows, web, and mobile application development. While it has some limitations compared to the full version of Visual Studio, it still offers a rich set of features and tools that make it an attractive option for hobbyists, students, and small-scale developers. If you're looking for a free, easy-to-use IDE for your development needs, Visual Studio Express 2013 is definitely worth considering.
: Specifically designed for building Windows 8.1 "Store" apps (now UWP). Core Guide: Getting Started