CodeSandbox

CodeSandbox is a browser-based online integrated development environment (IDE) focused on frontend development, supporting real-time collaboration, rapid prototyping, and project sharing. Users can write, run, and debug code directly in the browser without local environment configuration. It supports major frontend frameworks such as React, Vue, and Angular, along with JavaScript and TypeScript. Since 2025, it has expanded to support Docker containers and Python backend development. As of 2025, its client is open-source while core services remain closed-source, with over 10 million global users.

Core Features

1. Real-time Preview & Hot Reload
   • Code changes sync instantly to the preview window with Hot Module Replacement (HMR), eliminating the need for page refreshes.
2. Multi-framework & Template Support
   • Built-in templates for 50+ frameworks including React, Vue, and Angular, enabling one-click creation of standardized project structures.
3. Collaboration & Sharing
   • Multi-user real-time editing with shared cursor positions, shareable links, embedding capabilities, and GitHub integration (e.g., PR previews).
4. Full-Stack Development Environment
   • Added Docker container and Python support in 2025, enabling end-to-end full-stack project development.
5. VS Code Experience
   • Integrates the Monaco editor with syntax highlighting, code suggestions, Vim mode, and theme customization.
6. Offline Development
   • PWA support allows continued editing without internet, with automatic sync upon reconnection.

Advantages

• Zero Configuration Setup: No need to install Node.js or dependencies; develop directly in the browser.
• High-Performance Builds: Browser-based lightweight bundler, faster than traditional Webpack.
• Ecosystem Integration: Deep integration with GitHub, npm, and VS Code plugins, supporting project import/export.
• Community-Driven: Open-source client code allows users to contribute templates and plugins.

Use Cases

• Rapid Prototyping: Build framework demos in minutes to test new libraries or APIs.
• Education & Demonstration: Embed editable code examples in tutorials or documentation for students/readers.
• Team Collaboration: Remote teams can debug code together with real-time discussions.
• Open Source Showcase: Share runnable code examples to lower user adoption barriers.

Supported Platforms

Open Source Information

• Client Open Source: GitHub Repository (MIT License).
• Server Closed Source: Core build and collaboration services are not open-source.