StackBlitz vs Windsurf: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between StackBlitz and Windsurf comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
StackBlitz
Instant dev environments in the browser
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 8.5/10)
- • StackBlitz is a browser-based IDE for web development
- • It provides instant dev environments powered by WebContainers
Windsurf
The AI-native code editor
Best for you if:
- • An AI-native IDE with an agentic AI (Cascade) for deep codebase understanding and real-time assistance.
- • Offers generative code, live previews, and intelligent refactoring to streamline development workflows.
| At a Glance |  StackBlitz |  Windsurf |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | IDE & Code Editors | IDE & Code Editors |
Rating | 86/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | StackBlitz | Windsurf |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | IDE & Code EditorsHosting & Deployment | IDE & Code EditorsCode Review |
How StackBlitz and Windsurf Compare
StackBlitz
Instant dev environments in the browser
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Windsurf
The AI-native code editor
Free tier available · 85/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: StackBlitz
Want the highest-rated option?
StackBlitz: 86/100. Windsurf: 85/100.
Go with: StackBlitz
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: StackBlitz
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are ide & code editors tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
StackBlitz scores higher: 86/100 vs 85/100.
Key Takeaways
StackBlitz
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 85
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Windsurf
The Bottom Line
StackBlitz (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is StackBlitz or Windsurf better?
StackBlitz scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are StackBlitz and Windsurf used for?
StackBlitz: Instant dev environments in the browser. Windsurf: The AI-native code editor.
What does StackBlitz cost vs Windsurf?
StackBlitz is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Windsurf is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.