Block-BasedText-BasedBrowser-BasedFree

Code.org Labs

Code.org is a free, browser-based platform developed by a nonprofit dedicated to expanding access to K–12 computer science education. It provides a suite of interactive coding labs, each designed to meet learners at their skill level — from block-based coding for kindergarteners through text-based programming in JavaScript, Python, HTML/CSS, and Java for high schoolers.

Last updated 2026-06-02

Code.org App Lab interface showing a drag-and-drop UI builder alongside a JavaScript code editor

Try Code.org Labs

GradeElementary, Middle School, High School

CostFree

PlatformWeb

Coding TypeBlock-Based, Text-Based, Dual-Modality

HardwareNot required

Versions

Labs & Versions

8 labs — tap a card for grade band, year, and what sets it apart

8 labs

Sprite Lab

K–52019

Block-based

Designed as the primary creative tool for CS Fundamentals courses. Learners add sprite characters, set behaviors, and define interactions. More accessible than Game Lab — no draw loop management.

Game Lab

6–82017

Block-based or JavaScript

Block-to-text transition lab with a built-in Piskel sprite editor. Learners can switch between block and text modes at any time.

App Lab

9–122015

Block-based or JavaScript

Closest to real software development on the platform. Includes Design Mode (drag-and-drop UI builder) and Code Mode. Used in the AP CS Principles curriculum.

Web Lab

6–122017

HTML / CSS only

The only lab with no block-based option. Learners write actual HTML/CSS from the start. Split-pane editor with live preview and multi-page file tree.

Music Lab

3–122024

Block-based + AI beat generator

Only lab with audio-primary feedback. Learners hear their code in real time as music. Includes an AI beat generator. Similar in concept to EarSketch.

Dance Party

K–122018

Block-based

Most accessible lab — designed for zero-experience learners of any age. Learners choreograph characters dancing to music. Most commonly used for Hour of AI events.

Python Lab

6–122024

Python (text-based)

Runs real Python in the browser without installation. Described by Code.org as a 'learner-friendly IDE that runs real Python code.' Newest major lab on the platform.

Artist Lab

K–52013-2014

Block-based

The original Code.org lab. Learners create drawings and animations with a turtle graphics-style interface. No longer actively supported.

How it Works

Motivation

Each lab is designed to let learners produce a real, shareable output quickly — a game, an app, a website, a music track, or an animation. The creative framing of each lab connects coding to domains learners already care about. The Hour of AI campaign brings in seasonal, culturally relevant themes to engage learners who might not otherwise seek out CS content.

How it Works

Artifact Creation

Every lab produces a shareable artifact. Sprite Lab and Game Lab output animations and games. App Lab outputs functional multi-screen apps. Web Lab outputs multi-page websites. Music Lab outputs playable music tracks. Dance Party outputs choreographed animated scenes. Python Lab outputs programs with console and/or canvas output. All projects can be shared via link directly from the platform.

How it Works

Support for Coding

Block-based labs prevent syntax errors entirely — invalid code combinations are not physically connectable. Error messages are displayed inline in all labs. The block-to-text transition in Game Lab and App Lab makes the shift to text-based coding gradual rather than abrupt. Learners can switch between modes and see their code represented both ways.

How it Works

Device Requirements

Per Code.org's published technical requirements (code.org/en-US/about/it-requirements):

Spec	Details
Minimum screen resolution	1024 x 728 pixels
Recommended devices	Desktop, Laptop, or Chromebook
Browsers	Chrome 109+, Safari 16.6+, Edge 128+, Firefox 115+
Platforms	macOS 10.15+, Windows 10+, iOS 16+, Android 8+, ChromeOS

CS Discoveries, CS Principles, CS A: NOT compatible with tablets — full keyboard and mouse required
K–5 courses and Hour of AI: work on most modern tablets without external keyboard

How it Works

AI Empowerment

Code.org integrates AI literacy across the platform in two ways. (1) Music Lab includes an AI beat generator that uses machine learning to suggest rhythmic patterns — an embedded AI feature learners interact with directly. (2) The CSAI course and Hour of AI activities explicitly teach AI concepts. All other labs (Sprite Lab, Game Lab, App Lab, Web Lab, Dance Party, Python Lab) do not contain AI features and can be used independently. Teachers who want to avoid AI should note that Music Lab contains an AI feature and the Hour of AI has replaced the Hour of Code as the flagship annual activity.

How it Works

Platform Features

Key features and technical capabilities:

Entirely free — no subscriptions or in-app purchases
Browser-based — works on any internet-connected device; no downloads required
Optional learner accounts — learners can create accounts to save and share work
Teacher dashboard — create class sections, assign courses, monitor progress, and leave feedback
LMS integration — syncs with Google Classroom and other major platforms via one-click roster sync and SSO
Multilingual support — many labs available in 30+ languages
Accessibility features — screen reader support and read-aloud for blocks in select labs
Hour of AI (formerly Hour of Code) — annual one-hour standalone tutorials; now includes AI literacy framing
Standards-aligned — all curriculum mapped to CSTA K–12 CS Standards and major state standards

Code.org Labs

Labs & Versions

Motivation

Artifact Creation

Support for Coding

Device Requirements

AI Empowerment

Platform Features

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