The 5 best apps for learning to code
Learning to code has never been easier than it is today – thanks to numerous learning apps that make knowledge available anytime, anywhere. Whether you're a beginner or advanced, the right tools can be crucial to reaching your goal faster. In this article, we compare the most popular apps for learning to code, such as Codecademy, Programming Hub, DataCamp, SoloLearn, and Mimo, to help you choose the right app.
1. DataCamp - become a data scientist in between
DataCamp is a leading online learning platform specializing in data science, programming, and analytics. With the DataCamp App, you learn important skills such as Python, R, SQL, and Machine Learning through interactive courses and practical exercises. The app has over 1 million downloads in the Google Play Store and is rated 4.3 stars.As a user, you can choose from over 500 courses and set your own learning pace. DataCamp relies on a practice-oriented approach: you code directly in the app and receive immediate feedback on your code.
Which programming languages does DataCamp offer?
- Python, R, SQL, Java, Julia, Scala, C/C++
- JavaScript, Swift, Go, MATLAB, SAS, and more
DataCamp offers courses and certifications for several programming languages, especially Python, R, and SQL. The focus is on data analysis and data science. Python is offered, for example, in various courses such as "Introduction to Python for Data Analysis," while R is represented as a statistical programming tool with courses on the basics of R programming.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✓Practical exercises and quizzes | ✗no discussion forums for users |
| ✓broad course offering for data science and programming | ✗limited options for downloading content |
| ✓various difficulty levels and well-structured lessons | ✗occasionally uneven difficulty level within courses |
| ✓motivating progress system | ✗tips not always helpful |
2. Programming Hub - the all-rounder
With Programming Hub you can complete interactive lessons and test your knowledge with the built-in compiler directly in the app. Programming Hub is available for both Android and iOS. The app requires Android 9 or higher and has a file size of less than approx. 10 megabytes.
Which programming languages does Programming Hub offer?
- Java, Python, C++, JavaScript, HTML
- CSS, Swift, Kotlin, PHP, C
- SQL, Ruby, VB.NET, C#, R, and more
Overall, Programming Hub offers courses and examples for over 35 programming languages. This comprehensive selection allows you to further your education in various areas of software development, from web development to mobile apps to data analysis and system languages.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✓clear user interface | ✗Limited depth on advanced topics |
| ✓large selection of programming languages | ✗paid Pro version for full functionality |
| ✓interactive and easy-to-understand courses | ✗may not be sufficient for starting an IT career without additional practice |
| ✓good introduction to the basics | |
| ✓helpful code examples | |
| ✓playful learning approach | |
| ✓regular updates |
3. Codecademy: the well-known platform
Codecademy is the ideal platform if you want to learn programming. Codecademy can be used in the app and on the website. Over 85 million people have already chosen Codecademy. With the mobile app Codecademy Go you can deepen your knowledge on the go, whether on the way to work or in a quiet moment at home.In the Play Store, Codecademy Go has an average rating of 4.7 stars. The platform offers both free and paid courses. Even with the free version, you can learn solid basics, while the premium option gives you access to in-depth content and projects.
Which programming languages does Codecademy offer?
- Python, JavaScript, HTML & CSS, SQL, Java
- C++, C#, C, PHP, R, IT
- AI, Web development, Data science, Cloud computing, Cybersecurity
Codecademy offers numerous programming languages. In addition, there are structured career paths such as Full-Stack Engineer, Back-End Engineer, iOS Developer, Front-End Engineer, Computer Science, and Data Scientist. Here you not only learn the technical fundamentals but also receive targeted guidance to succeed in your desired career field.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✓Interactive learning environment | ✗App is a bit buggy |
| ✓wide range of programming languages | ✗relatively high cost for premium content |
| ✓structured learning paths | ✗App is not in German |
| ✓active community for support | |
| ✓clear user interface | |
| ✓ability to edit code in the browser |
4. Sololearn - app with an active community
Sololearn is a popular app for learning programming languages that lets you learn anytime, anywhere. With over 20 courses, the app covers a wide range of programming languages and technologies. The app not only offers learning materials but also a social platform where you can connect with millions of other programmers, share code, and ask questions.With Sololearn you can program and create code directly on your smartphone, thanks to an integrated mobile compiler. The app is free to use, but also offers a Pro version with additional features such as ad-free learning and unlimited exercises.
Which programming languages does Sololearn offer?
- Generative AI, Machine Learning, C, CSS, C++, C#
- HTML, Java, JavaScript, Python, and more
Sololearn offers a variety of programming languages ranging from beginner to advanced levels. In addition to programming languages, SoloLearn also offers courses on related technologies and frameworks such as Generative AI, Angular, jQuery, and Node.js, to give you a comprehensive insight into the IT world.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✓active community | ✗Spam in the community |
| ✓Code compiler | ✗App explains more basics |
| ✓free basic version available | ✗Limited hearts (usage) for the free version |
| ✓Certificates | |
| ✓AI support in the Pro version |
5. Mimo: the popular app for learning programming
With over 25 million users worldwide, Mimo has established itself as a popular app for learning to code. You can learn a variety of programming languages such as Python, JavaScript, TypeScript, HTML, and SQL. Additionally, Mimo uses gamified features like streaks and leaderboards to boost your motivation.
Mimo can be used on the web and in the app. With a rating of 4.8 stars in the Apple App Store (November 2024), user satisfaction is evident. The app offers both a free version and a paid Pro version with advanced features.Which programming languages does Mimo offer?
- HTML, CSS, JavaScript, TypeScript, Swift
- React, SQL, Node.js, Python (AI development)
In addition to individual programming languages, Mimo also offers learning paths such as Full-Stack Developer, Python AI Developer, Back-End Developer and Front-End Developer.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✓Content in German | ✗Limited number of hearts (5) in the free version |
| ✓Gamified features | ✗Long wait time for heart restoration (over 2 hours per heart) |
| ✓Lovely design |
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