Learn CODEPEN with Real Code Examples

CodePen provides a web-based editor with live preview of front-end code.

Supports HTML, CSS, and JavaScript along with preprocessors like Sass, LESS, and TypeScript.

Enables embedding of external libraries and frameworks via CDN.

Facilitates sharing of interactive code examples and demos.

Serves as a community platform for developers to showcase, fork, and collaborate on front-end projects.

Code editor with syntax highlighting and autocomplete

Instant rendering of changes in preview pane

Pen for individual projects, Projects for multi-file apps

Ability to fork, remix, and explore other users’ Pens

Asset hosting for images, fonts, and other resources

Pen - single-page front-end project

Project - multi-file front-end project (Pro feature)

Editor panels - HTML, CSS, and JavaScript

Preview pane - live rendering of code

Settings - configure libraries, preprocessors, and meta info

Single Pen (HTML/CSS/JS) or multi-file Project

Optionally include assets like images and fonts

External library references via Settings panel

Preview pane automatically reflects code changes

Collaborative or public sharing options available

Create a new Pen or Project

Write code in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript panels

Add external libraries or frameworks via Settings

Preview live changes in the rendering panel

Save, share, or embed your project online

Beginner: simple HTML/CSS layouts

Intermediate: interactive JavaScript components

Advanced: multi-file web app prototypes

Expert: animations, API integrations, and libraries

Portfolio designers: showcase interactive UI work

CodePen vs JSFiddle -> CodePen: modern UI, community; JSFiddle: simple quick testing

CodePen vs Replit -> CodePen: front-end focus; Replit: full IDE for multiple languages

CodePen vs Glitch -> CodePen: front-end prototyping; Glitch: full-stack apps

CodePen vs StackBlitz -> CodePen: small demos; StackBlitz: full project emulation

CodePen vs Figma -> CodePen: code-based; Figma: design/prototyping visually

2012 - CodePen founded

2013 - Early community sharing features

2015 - Added Projects for multi-file apps

2016 - Introduced asset hosting and preprocessors

2018 - Improved editor UI and performance

2020 - Enhanced collaboration and embedding options

2022 - Expanded community challenges and Pro features

2025 - Continuous updates to editor, collaboration, and performance

Pen - single-page front-end project

Project - multi-file front-end workspace

Collab Mode - real-time collaboration

Asset Hosting - images, fonts, etc.

CDN - external library hosting