Github Codespaces vs. Gitpod: Choosing the Best Online Code Editor @okikio_dev
Gitpod and GitHub Codespaces are both Visual Studio Code based online code editors, with attached Linux dev environment servers, for running terminal tasks; in simple terms, both are cloud-based code editors, and are free* to use. Okiki Ojo writes for k.:
The main reason I searched for (Gitpod) alternatives was that at that point in time I was attempting to use a Chromebook for all my work. When I found Gitpod I liked the general user experience it was similar to VS Code but had some extra additions that made more sense in an online environment, such as the ability to open small previews of websites while developing, etc… Plus, online editors were the only way to code on a Chromebook (this has now changed. Chrome OS now supports Linux as a subsystem), so, 🤷♂️.
The article goes in-depth on comparisons including pricing, use and collaboration. The conclusion:
Both services are amazing, as they bring a consistent and reliable VS Code experience to devs via the web. However, they are not the perfect solution for everyone, as they each have their ups and downs.
I have stated my personal experience with both services, and I would recommend using the one that you feel is best for you. Personally, I switch between both services rather often, however, I prefer GitHub Codespaces. I find it to be the best option for me as it syncs my settings, supports local VS Code, and has great integration with GitHub and VS Code extensions (I am even able to use GitHub Copilot in GitHub Codespaces).
Note: I actually used GitHub Codespaces together with GitHub Copilot to write this article. Trust me when I say it’s an excellent writing companion, it’s almost like the Gmail autocomplete, but better, since it also recognizes code syntax, and can apply them rather effectively.
For a more neutral and objective comparison between both services, I suggest reading through Nader Dabit’s article on FreeCodeCamp comparing the two.
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