Coding can be daunting for beginners — but we're here to make it easier. Check out our list of top coding apps to get you started.
Tynker™
Tynker™ is a great way to dip your toes into coding if you’ve never tried before. While it’s marketed as a programming app for kids, adults can find plenty to learn here from creating apps, building games and learning coding languages like Python and JavaScript. The app uses a variety of games and puzzles to introduce coding concepts starting with simple, visually-based blocks and slowly working up to advanced coding language. What you get is a relaxed environment to learn the basics of coding with over 2000 interest-driven activities to prepare you with a solid foundation in coding.
Encode
If you’re interested in jumping straight into a programming language but don’t know where to start, then Encode might be the answer you’ve been looking for. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of information available which makes it hard for coding beginners to get started. Encode outshines other more traditional courses by breaking larger programming concepts down into small, easily digestible lessons and organises everything in a way that allows you to progress gradually and at your own pace. There are three types of lessons in the app: Python, a growingly popular programming language used in data science and other general coding activities; JavaScript, where you’ll learn how to make websites interactive; and web lessons where you’ll also learn HTML and CSS, the programming languages that make up a website in the web section of Encode.
Programming Hub
Recognised and backed by Google launchpad accelerator, Programming Hub redefines the way you learn coding by tearing down traditional teaching methods and rebuilding them, with the help of Google experts, into an innovative new way to learn to code. What you get with Programming Hub is over 5000 programs and code examples divided into 20 courses and also the fastest compiler in the world for over 20 languages, so you can have all your programming needs fulfilled in one place. The lessons are fun with tons of challenges and quizzes to keep you engaged. Programming Hub is for serious learners who want to pick up many coding languages including CSS, C Sharp, Python, Jquery, SQL, JavaScript and more.
Mimo
Mimo offers a wealth of learning for users who want to learn a wide variety of coding disciplines, but don’t have the time to sit down in a class room 20 hours a week. The lessons in Mimo are designed to be done in short bursts, so you can pick up the app in your daily routine whether your sitting on the train or waiting for an appointment. The app also introduces gamification in its lessons by giving users the ability to score points and collect badges as they work through their courses. While you only get 7 days to trial their premium version before you need to pay a subscription, the app provides a fun and innovative way to enjoy coding, even if you have a busy schedule, and in an affordable way. With over 23 different courses to choose from, including HTML, CSS, Python, JavaScript, C#, C++, Swift and more, Mimo is definitely worth a try for any serious coder.
Khan Academy
While not strictly just a coding app, Khan Academy is available on both iOS and Android and can be an incredible resource for beginner programmers looking for more in-depth courses specific to their areas of interest. With over 6000 videos related to the fundamentals of computer science, Khan Academy has free video tutorials on just about any coding disciplines including major languages such as HTML, Python and JavaScript. You can also find other courses related to coding like front end web design, animation and more. Khan Academy is great if you’re into video learning and have the time sit down and study, even if it’s just half an hour a day.