C/C++ may not be the most popular programming language anymore. But, it is still one of the top ten programming languages loved in the industry, as per recent GitHub stats.
While you can choose to go by the books and run C/C++ programs locally on your computer using IDE for programmers, some online C compilers make it easier.
Not just limited to the ease of use without needing to set up anything, there are a few more benefits of coding using an online C compiler.
Here, we shall highlight the potential advantages that you get with online C/C++ compilers and list some of the best ones available.
Benefits of Running Code in the Browser
Since most of the software is available on the cloud, using an online code editor to run C/C++ code makes sense.
Here are a few reasons that you should consider using an online C/C++ compiler:
- No set up required.
- Access it from any platform, anywhere.
- Ability to collaborate (depends on the service you use).
- Back up your code to the cloud directly.
- Perfect for learning to code.
There are several online compilers available that let you run C/C++ code. Some of the best ones include:
OnlineGDB C Compiler
OnlineGDB compiler is a platform that supports multiple programming languages, including C/C++.
The web portal offers a clean UI and is easy to use. You need not create an account to type in code and run it.
The online compiler lets you beautify the code, share it via a link, and save it (account needed).
You get to tweak the theme (dark theme supported) and enable the autocomplete feature to write the code. Moreover, you can also add extra compiler flags to help you debug.
If you already have code with you, upload it to the portal in the correct format and run it to get the output.
Tutorialspoint Compiler
Tutorialspoint is one of the popular online compilers/tools related to programming languages. C/C++ online compiler is just one of the offerings.
You need to create an account to share the code that you run through the compiler.
It does not support sharing the code via links (without signing in), but it offers a much cleaner interface than many other online compilers.
Unlike some others, you get the ability to fork a code using a single click. There are several other options available for you to explore.
Geekflare’s Online C Compiler
We at Geekflare have also created an online compiler for the benefit of those who want to learn to code. Our online C compiler requires no signup or installation and instantly compiles and executes your programs.
Geekflare’s compiler also allows you to execute programs in other languages such as Java, Python, Javascript, C++, and more. Just click the drop-down list on the top right corner to change your programming language!
Replit
Replit is a full-fledged online compiler that supports several programming languages, optional premium features, and a separate team offering.
While you can use it for free to learn and explore, this can be used professionally if you opt for the premium plan.
Unlike other options, you will need to sign up for the service to get the full experience. Without an account, it offers limited features.
In addition to all the basic features, you can check the version history of your code, set up a database, and collaborate/interact using comments.
You will also find several projects available as a community showcase, which you can explore and fork for your projects.
Rextester
Rextester is a simple C/C++ compiler that does not offer many features but lets you run and debug the code.
It does support collaboration but is only limited to patrons who support the project. You get the option to switch between dark/light theme and a vertical/horizontal layout.
myCompiler
myComplier is yet another straightforward online C/C++ compiler to run programs.
It has limited options, and you can save your work by signing up to the portal.
OneCompiler
OneCompiler is a fantastic platform that lets you run code supporting a wide range of programming languages.
It features a clean user interface to give you a good experience running programs. It lets you switch between a dark theme and a light theme.
In addition to that, you will find several tutorials, posts, and coding challenges that help you learn while you use it.
It also has a useful syntax help section right below the editor to quickly address some common concepts to help you learn. You can choose to sign up, but you do not need an account to use the compiler.
CodeChef
CodeChef is a popular online IDE that is often used to organize coding contests and challenges.
You may not get the option to collaborate or save your code. But, it is a good fit if you want to run some code or take up challenges/contests.
It offers many keyboard shortcuts to take advantage of a few tweaks that you can perform when writing code in its editor.
This is a good option for learning because you can practice exercises based on difficulty/expertise, which should keep things interesting for you.
Code on Mobile
Online Compiler – Code on Mobile allows you to run code on the go via mobile devices.
It is worth noting that this is only available for Android smartphones. You also get an auto-save feature with it.
Techiedelight
Techiedelight is another useful online C/C++ compiler that lets you upload/download your code.
You can also choose to share the code with someone else to collaborate without creating an account.
It also lets you embed the source code on any other website to share it with the public.
Conclusion
An online compiler’s ease of use and flexibility lets a beginner quickly practice and learn C/C++ programming.
And online-specific features like having a backup of your code and collaborating with a link are some of the things that even professionals will appreciate.
Choosing an online C compiler to run your code has its advantages. Pick one and get started with your coding adventure.
Next, you might also want to check out some of the best online Python compilers or some AI-powered code completion tools if you are curious.