Side by side
Scratch vs ScratchJr
Both stand on coding education platforms. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidMacWeb+1
Scratch offers a free way to create and share interactive projects, with offline app use and extensions for hardware or web services. Optional memberships add content and merchandise benefits for a listed donation.
Visit Scratch
Free plan AndroidiPhoneMac+1
ScratchJr combines block-based programming with tools for making expressive projects, and it is free. Check device compatibility and the privacy details before use, especially on virtual-container devices.
Visit ScratchJrThe facts
| Scratch | ScratchJr | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, Mac, Web, Windows | Android, iPhone, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Annual Membership: $35 a year | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 3 | 1 |
| Maker | Scratch | Not published |
| Website | scratch.mit.edu | scratchjr.org |
| On coding education platforms | #8 of 49 | #12 of 49 |
Scratch: what it does well
- Free platform for creating and sharing projects.
- Supports project-based learning.
- App can be used offline.
- Extensions connect projects to hardware or web services.
- Available in more than 40 languages.
What to know first
- Offline projects are not accessible by Scratch.
- App download information specifies supported operating systems and versions.
- Scratch says no security system is impenetrable.
ScratchJr: what it does well
- Free app for iPads, Android tablets, and Chromebooks.
- Blocks let children animate characters and build stories.
- Projects can include voices, sounds, and photos.
- Teacher-led activities and a free resource database are available.
- Projects are stored locally on the device.
What to know first
- Designed for iPads and Android tablets, with other devices limited.
- Virtual-container devices may limit project importing and exporting.
- The app collects device and country-level IP information.
Alternatives to Scratch Alternatives to ScratchJr The whole list