Side by side
Alice vs MIT App Inventor
Both stand on coding learning software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxMacWindows
Alice offers a free way to explore programming concepts through visual, project-based work. Learners and educators should consider its desktop-only availability and the distinct learning focus of Alice 2 and Alice 3.
Visit Alice
Free plan Open source AndroidAPIExtension+6
MIT App Inventor offers a free browser-based way to design and program mobile apps with blocks. Its main platform limit is that packaged apps can currently be built and installed only for Android.
Visit MIT App InventorThe facts
| Alice | MIT App Inventor | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Yes |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Android, API, Extension, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 2 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | alice.org | appinventor.mit.edu |
| On coding learning software | #2 of 42 | #1 of 42 |
Alice: what it does well
- Free software for Linux, macOS, and Windows
- Creates animations, interactive stories, and simple games
- Teaches foundational and object-oriented programming concepts
- Includes supplemental teaching materials
- Supports project-based learning
What to know first
- No mobile apps
- A 2023 post noted Alice 2 compatibility issues with macOS 13 Ventura
MIT App Inventor: what it does well
- Free web-based app creation platform.
- Designer and Blocks Editor separate app tasks.
- Companion app supports Wi-Fi testing on iOS and Android.
- Projects can be shared and remixed.
- Creators own their apps.
What to know first
- A Google account is required to log in.
- Packaged app building and installation is Android-only.
- MIT notes it cannot assume legal liability for users’ privacy.
Alternatives to Alice Alternatives to MIT App Inventor The whole list