Ruby, like other high-level programming languages, has built a solid reputation in the industry. Tech experts from different parts of the globe use the programming language for web development and other projects. This deployment is made easier with an online Ruby compiler, code editors, interpreters, and integrated development environments.
The primary purpose of this article is to help you determine which online Ruby compiler is ideal for your projects. You will learn the differences between Ruby compilers and other similar tools, like online Ruby editors. You will also get a glimpse of the top five online Ruby compilers in the industry and what they offer.
What Is Ruby?
Ruby is a general-purpose, interpreted, high-level programming language that is commonly used with Rails. It is an object oriented language that can support several programming paradigms simultaneously. Since it was designed in 1995 by Yukihiro Matsumoto, Ruby has been known for the simplicity of its syntax.
As a general-purpose programming language, Ruby isn’t limited to web application development. Ruby can also be used for data analysis and software prototyping among other things. However, the most popular use of Ruby is the Ruby and Rails development framework, a full stack application development framework.
What Is an Online Ruby Compiler?
An online Ruby compiler is a web-based software designed specifically to convert Ruby into low-level, machine-readable language. Since Ruby is a human-readable language, it cannot be used to program software directly into a computer unless the file is compiled and interpreted.
While traditional Ruby compilers must be downloaded and installed, the online software can be used directly from your browser. A compiler is a handy tool that allows users to create complex web applications with a flexible language like Ruby.
How to Run Ruby Online: Compilers, Interpreters, Code Editors, and IDE
As a prospective Ruby developer, you need to know how to use compilers, interpreters, code editors, and integrated development environments (IDE). First, you need to understand how all these other tools are different from a compiler.
Online Ruby Compiler vs Online Ruby Interpreter
While a compiler is used to turn an entire Ruby source code into an assembly language, an interpreter changes one single line of code at a time. Ruby has words from the English language that makes it easier for programmers to understand.
Both the compiler and interpreter change this human-readable language to binary, which is made up of zeroes and ones. The way this process is done differs between compilers and interpreters and it also influences their productivity. Interpreters are more memory efficient than compilers.
Online Ruby Compiler vs Online Ruby Editor
A Ruby code editor is a text editor that allows the programmer to make changes directly on the source code. An online editor is designed to speed up the code writing and execution process by allowing the user to work through their browser.
There are typically two types of online Ruby editors. These are the stand-alone online editors and editors within an integrated development environment. Most programmers prefer the IDEs because it allows them to use other important Ruby tools.
Online Ruby Compiler vs Online Ruby IDE
A stand-alone Ruby compiler is limited to changing Ruby codes into assembly language, an IDE offers a virtual environment for developers to experiment or execute Ruby codes with ease. These IDEs were initially downloadable software that took up computer memory but there are online options now.
A typical IDE has a code compiler, code editor, code interpreter, and a community of developers. There are many other features that allow you to get everything you need from a single website.
Top 5 Online Ruby Compilers
| Online Ruby Compiler | Price | Functionality |
|---|---|---|
| Ideone | Free | Compiler |
| JDoodle | Varies | Compiler |
| OneCompiler | Free | Compiler with editor |
| paiza.IO Ruby Online | Free | Compiler with editor |
| Replit | Free/$7 monthly | IDE with compiler |
Now that you have seen a preview of the top five online compilers, the list below contains a description of each online tool. It also contains their key features that will help you determine which compiler is best for your projects.
Ideone
Ideone is a popular compiler that supports Ruby and about 60 other programming languages. It is easy to use and has a mobile-accessible website, making it the perfect option for newbies. All you have to do is visit Ideone.com, search for Ruby, paste your codes and wait a few seconds for the result. Your boilerplate code will be executed online when the code runner engine stops.
Ideone Features
- Includes a debugging tool.
- Allows you to execute your programs on a remote server thanks to the Sphere Engine technology.
- There are numerous samples on the database to guide you in case you have issues.
- Comes with a content management system (CMS).
JDoodle
JDoodle is one of the most popular and efficient compilers in the tech industry. Apart from Ruby, you can compile 75 other programming languages online through your browser. It has a basic version for individual programmers and an enterprise version for organizations. Note that JDoodle has other features beyond compiling codes because it is an integrated development environment.
JDoodle Features
- Features mobile apps for Android and iOS devices.
- Customizable themes allow you to change many parts of the compiler.
- The JDoodle API makes code execution even easier to integrate the compiler into websites seamlessly.
- Includes a code-sharing option available along with a code checker.
OneCompiler
This is a free open-source compiler that developers use to convert the Ruby source code to a machine-readable language. Apart from Ruby, you can compile about 50 other programming languages including Python, JavaScript, C, and Perl. OneCompiler is a cloud-based compiler so you can rest assured that your data would remain safe.
OneCompiler Features
- Encourages every programmer to learn from others, answer questions, and participate in pair programming.
- It is free despite the numerous features available.
- There is no need to install or download the compiler to enjoy the features.
- You can use OneCompiler to create a database for your projects.
paiza.IO Ruby Online
This Ruby compiler offered by paiza.IO is free for anyone interested in executing Ruby online, making it an accessible and simple option. The scalable paiza.IO code runner engine provides the perfect runtime environment for new and advanced developers. It supports over 20 languages other than Ruby.
paiza.IO Ruby Online Features
- Includes a paiza.IO API that can be used to integrate the compiler directly on your website.
- GitHub integration allows you to save all your codes automatically as you write them.
- You can upload files as many times as you want.
- You can view recent sample code snippets from the dashboard.
Replit
Replit is a multifunctional platform that can be used as an IDE, compiler, editor, or code interpreter. This means that you can write, edit, and deploy code directly from your browser in just a few clicks. The web browser can be used on Linux, Windows, and Apple macOS since it is cross-platform functional.
Replit Features
- Offers Ruby along with 50 other programming languages including Python.
- Integrates easily with GitHub.
- Replit is an excellent tool that allows you to build your applications in a single command line.
- You try pair programming with family friends or members of the community.
Which Online Ruby Compiler Should I Choose?
If you are looking for a compiler that can easily be integrated into your website or blog, paiza.IO and JDoodle might be ideal options. Online Ruby compilers offer more convenience than downloadable options and this is something you should consider when you are choosing a compiler.
OneCompiler would be an ideal option if you are looking for a secure compiler that also provides a database for your business. If you are a fresh graduate from a Ruby coding bootcamp in need of a simple and efficient compiler with a content management system, you should consider Ideone. Replit is a great option for automatic GitHub integration and pair programming.
Online Ruby Compiler FAQ
Sublime Text 4 is currently one of the best integrated development environments used for Ruby and Rails. It has an easy-to-use interface and a range of functions that developers rely on to execute code, especially for web development. There is an online and downloadable option of Sublime Text 3.
Yes, Python and Ruby are both general-purpose programming languages that can be used for web application development and data analysis. Ruby is also used for server-side scripting just like Python and the code syntax is easy to understand. However, it is easier to learn Python than it is to learn Ruby.
Ruby and JavaScript are both used for web development but JavaScript is far more popular than Ruby. However, Ruby has a stronger web framework than JavaScript even if they are both object-oriented programming languages. According to PayScale, professionals with Ruby skills have an average salary of $102,000, while professionals with JavaScript skills make $86,000 a year.
Yes, Ruby is hard to learn for someone who does not have prior knowledge of programming even if the code syntax is easy to remember. However, an existing programmer with knowledge of popular programming languages like C++ or Python can learn Ruby within a few days or weeks.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"
Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot
