# Encode vs Mad Func

The clearest difference is ads: Mad Func at none against Encode's shown. Mad Func also leads on update cadence (every 3 days vs every 2 weeks) and rating (5.0 vs 4.8). Encode's advantage is ratings volume (6.4K vs 1) and iOS requirement (15.0 vs 18.0). On price, in-app purchases, monetization model and device support there is nothing between them.

Both are free to download. Encode sells 2 in-app purchases, starting at $9.99 per month and Mad Func sells 1 in-app purchase, starting at $2.99 per 7 days. Whichever you choose, the download price is not the number that matters.

Mad Func holds the better App Store score, 5.0 against 4.8. That said, the two scores are not equally well evidenced: Encode has 6.4K ratings behind it against 1, so its average is the more settled of the two.

Encode ships an update every 2 weeks, Mad Func every 3 days. The most recent releases landed on September 24, 2026 and June 3, 2026 respectively.

## The numbers

| Metric | Encode | Mad Func |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | [4.8 (6.4K ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/encode-learn-to-code/id1198851756/reviews) | **[5.0 (1 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/mad-func/id6747051739/reviews)** |
| Number of ratings | **6.4K** | 1 |
| Positive reviews | 88.7% of reviews | — |
| In-app purchases | Yes | Yes |
| Ads | Yes | **No** |
| Update frequency | Every 2 weeks | **Every 3 days** |
| Monetization | Free with in-app purchases | Free with in-app purchases |
| Size | 86 MB | 28 MB |
| Requires iOS | **15.0** | 18.0 |
| Devices | **iPhone, iPad, iPod** | iPhone, iPad |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | [Upskew Pty. Ltd.](https://appshunter.io/developer/1198851755) | [Gina De La Rosa](https://appshunter.io/developer/1315362641) |

## What reviewers say

### Encode

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/encode-learn-to-code/id1198851756)

Learn to code with interactive, bite-sized lessons designed for busy schedules. Master popular languages like Python, JavaScript, and SQL through hands-on exercises and challenges. Ideal for beginners, this app makes coding accessible and fun, offering certificates upon completion.

**Highlights:** Bite-sized interactive lessons, Hands-on coding exercises, Learn Python, JavaScript, HTML/CSS, SQL, Built-in code playground, Daily motivation streaks and hearts, Certificates of completion

**Features:** Vision Pro support

**In-app purchases (2)**

| Purchase | Price | Billing |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Encode Plus (Monthly) | $9.99 | per month |
| Encode Plus (Annual) | $39.99 | per year |

**What reviewers like**

- 👍 Easy to learn and understand
- 🚀 Bite-sized, digestible lessons
- 💡 Engaging and game-like approach
- 🆓 Mostly free with no ads
- 👌 Smooth and intuitive interface

**What reviewers complain about**

- 🕰️ Long wait times after mistakes
- 💰 Restricts content behind paywall
- 🐛 Occasional bugs and glitches
- 🤔 Lacks depth for more advanced learners

**Reported bugs**

- Incorrect grammar/spelling in some lessons
- Inability to input answers in certain lessons
- Lesson content not always matching what's asked

**Requested features**

- Add more coding languages like C++, C#, and Lua
- Implement progress sync across devices
- Provide more interactive coding exercises
- Include audio/voice guidance for lessons


### Mad Func

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/mad-func/id6747051739)

Learn algorithms and coding concepts through interactive, gamified challenges. Solve puzzles by arranging code blocks, debug issues, and tackle system design problems. Track your progress and prepare for interviews or strengthen your computer science fundamentals.

**Highlights:** Gamified algorithm puzzles, Interactive debugging, System design challenges, Multi-language support, Progress tracking dashboard, Weekly new challenges

**In-app purchases (1)**

| Purchase | Price | Billing |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Mad Func Pro | $2.99 | per 7 days |


## Frequently asked questions

### Is Encode free?

Encode is free to download, with in-app purchases available.

### Is Mad Func free?

Mad Func is free to download, with in-app purchases available.

### Which has better reviews, Encode or Mad Func?

Mad Func is rated higher. Encode averages 4.8 out of 5 from 6.4K ratings, while Mad Func averages 5.0 from 1 ratings.

### Do Encode or Mad Func have ads?

Encode shows ads; Mad Func does not.

### Which is updated more often, Encode or Mad Func?

Encode ships an update every 2 weeks, and Mad Func every 3 days. Most recently, Encode was updated on September 24, 2026 and Mad Func on June 3, 2026.

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*Compared by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/) from daily US App Store data. Review summaries are generated from verbatim App Store reviews.*