Visual Studio Code integrates Jupyter functionality directly into Microsoft's popular code editor, offering a familiar environment for developers who want to work with notebooks alongside their regular coding. Deepnote provides a specialized AI-powered data workspace built specifically for data science collaboration and analysis.

Development environment

VSCode provides a lightweight, integrated experience within the VSCode ecosystem. Users benefit from VSCode's extensive extension marketplace, debugging capabilities, and familiar interface. The platform excels in its code-first approach, making it particularly appealing for developers who regularly switch between notebook and traditional coding.

Deepnote offers a more specialized environment designed specifically for data science workflows. Its cloud-native architecture includes real-time collaboration, integrated version control, and advanced AI-assisted coding features. The platform provides a comprehensive workspace that goes beyond basic notebook functionality.

Key features

VSCode:

• Seamless integration with VSCode's debugging tools and extensions
• Local development environment with full Git integration
• Support for multiple programming languages
• Custom notebook extensions capability
• Integrated terminal access

Deepnote distinguishes itself with:

• Real-time collaboration capabilities
• Cloud-based infrastructure with no local setup required
• Extensive data source integrations
• Advanced AI-assisted coding
• Built-in version control and team management

Collaboration and sharing

VSCode relies on traditional version control systems and external sharing methods. While it supports Live Share for real-time collaboration, the experience is primarily designed for individual development with occasional collaboration.

Deepnote excels in team environments with built-in real-time collaboration, sophisticated permission management, and seamless sharing capabilities. The platform enables multiple team members to work simultaneously on the same notebook while maintaining version control and project organization.

Data connectivity

VSCode connects to data sources through local configurations and extensions, requiring manual setup of database connections and dependencies.

Deepnote provides native integrations with major data sources including BigQuery, Snowflake, and various database systems, offering a more streamlined approach to data connectivity with built-in authentication and management tools. 5

Target users

VSCode is ideal for:

• Developers who primarily work in VSCode
• Users who need strong local development capabilities
• Teams with existing VSCode-based workflows
• Projects requiring extensive debugging capabilities

Deepnote is better suited for:

• Data science teams requiring real-time collaboration
• Organizations needing cloud-based workspace solutions
• Projects involving multiple stakeholders
• Teams working with various data sources and integrations

Pricing structure

VSCode is free and open-source, with costs potentially arising from commercial extensions or enterprise features.

Deepnote offers a freemium model with a generous free tier and paid plans for teams and enterprises, including advanced features and increased computational resources. 3

Conclusion

The choice between VSCode and Deepnote largely depends on your workflow and team requirements. VSCode provides a powerful local development environment integrated with a familiar IDE, making it perfect for developers who prioritize a code-first approach. Deepnote offers a more specialized, collaborative platform ideal for data science teams requiring robust cloud-based features and real-time collaboration capabilities.