Comparison

BASIC Programming Compiler vs pocket BASIC

Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.

Head to head
About

BASIC Programming Compiler

Learn and test code snippets in BASIC on your iOS device. This app features a source code editor with syntax highlighting, a custom keyboard for easy input, and the ability to compile and run your programs. It utilizes the FreeBASIC compiler for a powerful coding experience.

Highlights
  • Compile and run BASIC programs
  • View program output and errors
  • Select and run code chunks
  • Custom keyboard for easy input
  • Advanced source code editor
  • Open, save, import, and share files
  • Language reference included
Features
Read full description

Write BASIC code directly on your iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch! This app is ideal for learning and testing code snippets! BASIC (Beginner's All-purpose Symbolic Instruction Code) is a family of general-purpose, high-level programming languages whose design philosophy emphasizes ease of use. This app uses the free/open source (GPL) FreeBASIC compiler (https://www.freebasic.net) as backend. FreeBASIC is a high-level programming language supporting procedural, object-orientated and meta-programming paradigms, with a syntax compatible to Microsoft QuickBASIC. Features: - Compile and run your program - View program output or detailed error - Select and run chunk of codes - Custom keyboard for easy input of frequently used characters - Optimized for connecting with external physical/bluetooth keyboard - Advanced source code editor with syntax highlighting and line numbers - Open, save, import and share bas files. - Language reference - Install packages Limitations: - Internet connection is required for compilation - Maximum program running time is 20s - Some file system, network and graphics functions may be limited - Only 1 file can be run at a time - This is a batch compiler; interactive programs are not supported. If your program provides an input prompt, enter the input in the Input tab prior to compilation. See the Reference tab in the app for code examples

About

pocket BASIC

Features
Read full description

Pocket BASIC brings back the simplicity and charm of classic BASIC, reimagined for modern iOS and macOS devices. Write code, perform calculations, and visualize functions instantly — all in one lightweight environment. Why Pocket BASIC? - Instant coding - Write and run BASIC programs in seconds — no compilation, no friction. - Clean and focused interface - Designed for clarity, with an integrated editor, console, and tools. - Perfect for learning and experimenting - Great for understanding programming fundamentals or building small utilities. - Works offline. No internet connection required. Your programs stay on your device. Features - Full BASIC interpreter inspired by classic systems - Built-in editor with immediate execution - Console, calculator, and simple graphics modes - Powerful scientific calculator for quick calculations and everyday use - Function graphing with interactive visualization - Import/export programs easily - QR code support for sharing code - Integration with iOS Shortcuts (run scripts directly) - Lightweight and fast Who is it for? - Beginners learning programming - Developers who love retro computing - Students - Anyone who wants quick, practical scripts on their device A modern take on a classic Pocket BASIC is not just nostalgia — it’s a practical tool for today. From simple calculations to small utilities, it’s like having a tiny programmable assistant in your pocket.

Screenshots

BASIC Programming Compiler4 screens
pocket BASIC4 screens

Verdict

The call

The clearest difference is in-app purchases: pocket BASIC at none against BASIC Programming Compiler's 1. pocket BASIC also leads on ads (none vs shown). BASIC Programming Compiler's advantage is iOS requirement (12.0 vs 15.6). On price, update cadence and device support there is nothing between them.

Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS

CostPrice · In-app purchases · Ads · Monetization

Both are free to download. BASIC Programming Compiler sells 1 one-off in-app purchase. pocket BASIC asks for nothing beyond the download.

UpkeepUpdate frequency

BASIC Programming Compiler ships an update every 5 weeks, pocket BASIC monthly. The most recent releases landed on September 25, 2026 and October 10, 2026 respectively.

Scorecard3 real differences · 7 level
BASIC Programming Compiler versus pocket BASIC: the parameters behind the verdict, then further details
ParameterBASIC Programming Compilerpocket BASIC
PriceFreeFree
Rating3.1 (7 ratings) — better—
Positive reviews0.0% of reviews—
Number of ratings7 — better—
Update frequencyEvery 5 weeksMonthly — better
AdsYesNo — better
In-app purchasesYesNo — better
MonetizationFree with in-app purchases—
DevicesiPhone, iPad, iPodiPhone, iPad, iPod, Mac — better
Requires iOS12.0 — better15.6
Further details — not scored
Size19 MB2 MB
Age rating4+4+
DeveloperKetan AppaLeonardo Del Nonno

In-app purchases

1 purchases

BASIC Programming Compiler

One-time1
  • Upgrade$2.99
None

pocket BASIC

No in-app purchases

Questions

Is BASIC Programming Compiler free?
BASIC Programming Compiler is free to download, with in-app purchases available.
Is pocket BASIC free?
pocket BASIC is free to download, with no in-app purchases.
Do BASIC Programming Compiler or pocket BASIC have ads?
BASIC Programming Compiler shows ads; pocket BASIC does not.
Which is updated more often, BASIC Programming Compiler or pocket BASIC?
BASIC Programming Compiler ships an update every 5 weeks, and pocket BASIC monthly. Most recently, BASIC Programming Compiler was updated on September 25, 2026 and pocket BASIC on October 10, 2026.

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