Grasshopper is a free coding app from Google's Area 120 incubator that teaches JavaScript fundamentals through bite-sized puzzles and quizzes. Designed for complete beginners, it uses visual code puzzles that gradually introduce programming concepts without requiring any prior knowledge. Grasshopper focuses specifically on JavaScript, making it a focused introductory tool.
Grasshopper is the most accessible entry point to coding, being completely free with Google's brand backing. It competes with Mimo and SoloLearn for mobile learners, but its narrow JavaScript focus and limited depth position it more as a gateway to coding than a comprehensive education platform. Many users graduate to Codecademy or freeCodeCamp after Grasshopper.
Covers multiple languages with career paths. Stronger gamification and production quality. Paid subscription but significantly broader scope than Grasshopper's JavaScript-only curriculum.
Many programming languages with community features and a mobile code editor. More languages and depth than Grasshopper, with freemium pricing and peer learning features.
Free, gamified Swift programming from Apple. Similar beginner-friendly approach but for Swift/iOS development. Apple ecosystem integration and path to real app development.
Grasshopper's Google backing and completely free model remove all barriers to trying coding. This positions it as the default recommendation for absolute beginners, though Google's commitment to maintaining the project long-term is uncertain.
Grasshopper functions as a gateway to coding rather than a comprehensive platform. Users who complete Grasshopper naturally seek deeper learning, potentially benefiting Google's broader education and developer ecosystem.
Grasshopper's JavaScript-only focus limits its appeal for users interested in Python, data science, or mobile development. This narrow scope keeps the product simple but caps its addressable market compared to multi-language competitors.
Grasshopper competes with Mimo (gamified multi-language), SoloLearn (community coding), and Swift Playgrounds (Apple's coding app). Grasshopper's free pricing and Google backing make it the most accessible option.
Grasshopper is an excellent starting point for absolute beginners. It teaches JavaScript fundamentals through approachable puzzles. For deeper learning beyond basics, users should progress to platforms like Codecademy or freeCodeCamp.
Yes, Grasshopper is completely free with no ads, subscriptions, or in-app purchases. It is developed by Google's Area 120 incubator as a free educational resource for learning JavaScript.