Side by side

CodeHS vs Compiler Explorer

Both stand on code playground software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.

CodeHS

Free plan AndroidiPhoneWeb

CodeHS pairs a broad course catalog with a browser editor and classroom management tools. Teachers can start with a permanent free plan; individual learners pay $99 a month or $990 a year for All Access.

Visit CodeHS

Compiler Explorer

Free plan APISelf-hostedWeb

Compiler Explorer combines multi-language compilation views, execution controls, sharing, and API access in one free service. Check the Windows library limitation and AI data handling before using it for a particular workflow.

Visit Compiler Explorer

The facts

	CodeHS	Compiler Explorer
Free plan	Yes	Yes
Open source	Not published	Not published
Runs on	Android, iPhone, Web	API, Self-hosted, Web
Lowest paid plan	Individual Learner All Access (annual): $990 a year	Warm fuzzy glow: $1 a month
Plans published	9	4
Maker	Not published	Compiler Explorer
Website	codehs.com	godbolt.org
On code playground software	#1 of 58	#4 of 58

CodeHS: what it does well

Catalog offers more than 100 customizable courses.
Browser editor supports 10+ programming languages.
Classroom tools include autograders and code history.
Free teacher plan has no per-student fees.
Integrates with Google Classroom, Canvas, and Moodle.

What to know first

Free teacher plan does not include downloads.
Most integrations require a school license.
Individual learners receive no official grades or academic credit.

Compiler Explorer: what it does well

Supports 30+ programming languages
Shows assembly, LLVM IR, Rust MIR, and ASTs
Runs and links compiled code
Offers sharing and local-file saving
Provides REST API and self-hosting instructions

What to know first

Windows-based compilers do not support libraries
Claude Explain sends code to Anthropic
No free trial listed

Alternatives to CodeHS Alternatives to Compiler Explorer The whole list