The previous page noted the strengths and weaknesses of Visual Studio Code for Education for CircuitPython coding. This page contrasts VS Code for EDU with other online editors available as of the time this guide was written.

code.circuitpython.org

code.circuitpython.org is an online browser-based editor provided by Adafruit, the principal developer of CircuitPython. It has additional capabilities not found in VS Code for EDU:

1. Connecting to a board via Bluetooth, WiFi, or USB
2. Knowledge of the board it's connected to
3. A serial terminal that takes the output and displays it to the programmer
4. Great syntax highlighting
5. Knowledge of CircuitPython functions

code.circuitpython.org does not have cloud storage for code. This isn't as handy as VS Code but a log-in is not needed for code.circuitpython.org.

The CircuitPython Online Editor

The CircuitPython Online Editor by River Wang is a capable online editor specifically for CircuitPython. Highlights:

1. Connecting to a board via USB (only)
2. It has knowledge of the board it's connected to
3. A serial terminal that takes the output and displays it to the programmer
4. Decent syntax highlighting

ViperIDE

ViperIDE is the newest editor available, from a developer in Ukraine. It originally was a MicroPython only editor but the developer states it may be used with CircuitPython also. 

Highlights:

1. Connecting to a board via USB or Bluetooth
2. It has a serial terminal that takes the board output and displays it to the programmer
3. Great syntax highlighting

Summary and Recommendation

code.circuitpython.org provides the strongest set of features for the CircuitPython programmer for an online environment (contrasted with Mu for downloadable editors).

VS Code for EDU has the cloud storage and security features some may like.

If strong board integration, access to any type of CircuitPython board, and cloud storage is needed, it is suggested to use code.circuitpython.org and save code on VS Code for EDU or your favorite cloud storage such as DropBox, Google Drive, etc.

If you are ok with VS Code for EDU's lack of CircuitPython specific features, then the backing by Microsoft and cloud storage are very handy.