DataCamp vs Codecademy
The two learn-by-doing platforms for technical skills, the data specialist against the all-round coding school.
DataCamp
Learn data and AI by actually doing it.
Codecademy
Learn to code with your hands on the keyboard.
| Feature | DataCamp | Codecademy |
|---|---|---|
| Our score | 4.4 / 5 | 4.2 / 5 |
| Price | From €13.25/mo | From €19.99/mo |
| Free plan | ||
| Best for | Learning data and AI | Learning to code |
| Category | Tech & data | Tech & data |
| Provider | DataCamp Inc. | Codecademy (Skillsoft) |
| Visit DataCamp | Visit Codecademy |
Our verdict
Pick based on your destination. DataCamp is purpose-built for data and AI: Python, R, SQL, and machine learning, with career tracks that map to real data jobs. Codecademy covers a much broader range of programming, from web development to mobile apps, and is the friendlier general place to learn to code.
Want to work with data? DataCamp. Want to become a developer? Codecademy.
“Learning by coding directly in the browser works surprisingly well. Short exercises, instant feedback. For data and AI we found this more effective than any video course.”Editorial team, on DataCamp
“The most pleasant place to start coding. You write your own code from minute one. The free plan is a fine start, and the career paths add structure.”Editorial team, on Codecademy
Frequently asked questions
DataCamp or Codecademy: which should I learn on?
Let the destination decide. DataCamp is built for data and AI: Python, R, SQL and machine learning, with career tracks that map onto real data jobs. Codecademy covers far more ground, from web development to mobile apps, and is the friendlier place to learn programming in general. Heading into data, DataCamp. Becoming a developer, Codecademy.
Which costs more, DataCamp or Codecademy?
Codecademy. Its Pro plan is $239.88 a year, or $19.99 a month billed annually, against $159 a year for DataCamp Premium, which works out at $13.25 a month. Prices last checked June 2026. Both are annual rates, and DataCamp notes that paying month to month costs considerably more, so budget for the full year.
Can I learn anything for free on either platform?
Yes, but the free tiers differ in usefulness. Codecademy's free plan gives you real basic courses and interactive practice, enough to find out whether coding suits you, with no certificates. DataCamp's free tier unlocks the first chapter of every course, which is a good way to test the browser exercises rather than a way to finish anything.
Both teach Python. Does it matter which one I use?
It matters for where you end up. On DataCamp you learn Python through data work, with short exercises and instant feedback, feeding into tracks aimed at data roles. On Codecademy you learn Python as one language among many, inside career paths pointing at developer jobs like web developer. Same language, different destination.