Scrimba vs Codecademy: editable screencasts or a broader catalog?

Scrimba lets you pause a screencast and edit the code you're watching. Codecademy has a broader catalog, including subjects outside Scrimba's four career paths. I'd try the lesson format and read the relevant syllabus before choosing either Pro plan.

Both platforms include coding practice, and both limit some features to paid plans.

For backend development, I'd also put Boot.dev on the shortlist. Its path connects Python fundamentals to Go or TypeScript, SQL and HTTP servers through coding assignments and projects. That focused sequence is a reason to try its free demo chapters, particularly if you prefer working through problems after reading a lesson.

Scrims, course catalogs and career access

Coding along with a Scrimba lesson

Scrimba's pricing-page FAQ describes scrims as editable lessons that run in the browser. I'd use them if I liked watching an instructor work and experimenting with the same code (which I do). Pro includes frontend, full-stack, backend and AI engineer paths, plus challenges with feedback.

Freemium includes intro courses and scrims, with up to ten challenges and ten Explainers. Pro includes unlimited challenges but caps Explainers at one hundred per month. I really recommend trying the free sample before choosing a subscription.

Learning alongside the instructor is the reason I'd do Scrimba. Prataya singled out that format:

Scrimba is a unique platform that allows you to learn coding hands-on alongside the teacher on the same screen. I believe this is one of the best features I've ever encountered on any website!

Prataya on Trustpilot, February 2026

Looking beyond Scrimba's four career paths

Codecademy's catalog covers web development, computer science, data, cybersecurity and many programming languages. I'd look there if the subject I wanted wasn't in Scrimba's paths.

Its plan table lists projects, assessments and interview features, with access depending on the tier. Live bootcamps and coaching are separate offerings, so check which purchase gives you the help you want.

Career paths aren't included in Plus. If you want the Full-Stack Engineer or Computer Science path, compare Pro with Scrimba's plan.

For someone who wants repeated practice and doesn't mind a slower pace, Teo Rebull's mixed review gives a useful description:

From my experience, the courses are too slow, but I have to say that I like how much practice you get. It can definitelh improve in the variety of courses but it is a fun and immersive experience overall.

Teo Rebull on Trustpilot, February 2026

Career paths require Pro on both platforms

Scrimba's pricing page lists $294/year, presented as $24.50/month billed annually. It advertises a seven-day money-back guarantee and regional pricing.

Codecademy Pro lists $19.99/month billed annually or $39.99 billed monthly. Plus lists $14.99/month billed annually or $29.99 billed monthly, but excludes career paths. For a full career path, compare Scrimba Pro with Codecademy Pro.

Try an introductory scrim and a relevant free Codecademy course, then read each path's project requirements. Codecademy also advertises free trials for Plus and Pro.

For Python/Go backend work, Boot.dev's backend curriculum is another option. Continued interactive lessons require membership after demos, at $399/year billed yearly, with monthly billing also offered. Later lessons remain readable for free. Its listed paths don't include frontend development. For more choices, see Codecademy alternatives.

If you want to practice solving backend assignments with help when you're stuck, I'd try Boot.dev's demos. Bartosz Zelaznicki liked that Boots guided them without supplying the answer:

If you get stuck, Boots, the AI assistant is very helpful by guiding you towards the answer in a fun way without just straight giving the answer to you.

Bartosz Zelaznicki on Trustpilot, July 2026