Side by side
Microsoft Dev Box vs StackBlitz
Both stand on cloud development environments. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Paid AndroidiPhoneLinux+3
Dev Box offers configurable, centrally managed cloud workstations with identity, networking, Intune and cost controls. Its maintenance status and scheduled retirement are central considerations for any new deployment.
Visit Microsoft Dev Box
Free plan AndroidAPIExtension+3
StackBlitz centers on browser-based JavaScript development, with offline work and enterprise deployment options among its listed capabilities. Check browser requirements and account needs before relying on it for saved or collaborative work.
Visit StackBlitzThe facts
| Microsoft Dev Box | StackBlitz | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | No | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | No |
| Runs on | Android, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Web, Windows | Android, API, Extension, iPhone, Self-hosted, Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Pro: $25 per user a month |
| Plans published | 1 | 7 |
| Maker | Not published | StackBlitz |
| Website | devbox.microsoft.com | stackblitz.com |
| On cloud development environments | #21 of 27 | #17 of 27 |
Microsoft Dev Box: what it does well
- Self-service creation of multiple project-specific dev boxes
- Supports YAML and custom Azure image sources
- Autostop and hibernation help control costs
- Automatic Intune enrollment manages provisioned boxes
- Encrypted disks and Azure network choices
What to know first
- No free plan is listed
- Service is in maintenance mode
- Fully retires at 17:00 UTC on September 18, 2028
- Personal accounts and guest access are unsupported
StackBlitz: what it does well
- Runs Node.js development environments in a browser tab
- Lists offline work as a capability
- Viewing and editing projects does not require an account
- Enterprise offers self-hosting on bare metal or in a VPC
What to know first
- Saving or collaborating requires a GitHub account
- WebContainers need SharedArrayBuffer and cross-origin isolation
- Prices for listed plans are not provided
Alternatives to Microsoft Dev Box Alternatives to StackBlitz The whole list