VEXcode vs Wonder Workshop Blockly

VEXcode is coding software for VEX robotics, with versions listed for VEX 123, GO, AIM, IQ, EXP, V5, CTE, and AIR. It uses a consistent interface across VEX platforms and supports drag-and-drop Blocks, Switch Blocks for moving toward Python, and text-based Python and C++. VEXcode VR runs in a browser without installation and offers curriculum and activities, which teachers can edit in Google Docs. It requires no student accounts, and each license includes access for an educator’s students at school and at home. VR Free costs nothing and includes Blocks, 15 basic-graphics playgrounds, curriculum, activities, and online resources. Enhanced costs $199 a year; Premium costs $499 a year. The separate VEX VS Code Extension supports C++ and Python on Windows and Mac, with project, documentation, firmware, and troubleshooting tools. It requires VS Code 1.66 or later. VEXcode runs across Android, iOS, macOS, web, and Windows.

Wonder Workshop Blockly is a visual programming app that lets children create programs for the Dash robot using coding challenges, puzzles, and creative projects. Its drag-and-drop interface introduces sequencing, loops, sensors, events, functions, variables, and conditionals, and the product is described as introducing coding to children as young as six. Blockly is available on iOS, Android, and Chrome. The Free Tier requires a physical Dash robot; a paid Make Wonder account adds Virtual Dash in Blockly on iOS and Chrome. Teachers with a Free Tier account or above can track student progress through Blockly Puzzles, including when students share devices. Blockly Pro is available on Chrome with a paid subscription and supports a transition from blocks to JavaScript while programming Dash. The apps do not require internet for use, but downloading requires internet, and Class Connect and web versions require an active connection. Listed paid plans include STEM Homeschool at $125 a year and STEM Classroom at $199 a year; the free tier is also listed.