Dataquest vs DataCamp 2021

I’ve previously done extensive reviews on both DataCamp and Dataquest, but I still often get asked which I’d recommend.

Let’s look at how they compare and which one might be best for you. 

For more in-depth reviews of these platforms, check out my full DataCamp Review and Dataquest Review when you're finished with this Dataquest vs DataCamp comparison.

We’ll look at their curriculum - including what programming languages are covered and the overall setup. We’ll also talk about their learning styles, cost, and community / support. 

Then, based on my 15 years of analytics experience, I’ll tell you whether I recommend either platform.

Review Background

I spent time using both DataCamp and Dataquest on subscriptions purchased with my own money. This review is my opinion based on my own experience using the product. Some links may be affiliate links.

This Dataquest vs DataCamp comparison will take a high level view so that it doesn’t end up being overly long. 

DataCamp vs Dataquest

Both Dataquest and DataCamp are online platforms for learning data science and analytics.

Both tools do this mostly through teaching you programming languages.

As their names indicate, the focus is on working with data so if you’re just wanting to learn how to code in general, there are better platform options like Codecademy.

Languages

Dataquest focuses their programs on R and Python.

These are 2 of the most popular languages for data analysis right now. 

DataCamp focuses on R, Python, and SQL so they offer more variety in their training. 

Both platforms have supplemental training in other languages and tools, but it’s much more limited than their core offerings.

Curriculum

Dataquest offers dozens of courses as well as projects and practice.

While you can take these individually in any order you choose, the structure of Dataquest highlights their Career Paths. 

DataCamp offers hundreds of courses as well as projects and assessments.

While you can take these individually in any order you choose, the main structure of DataCamp is based on their Career and Skills Tracks. 

These platforms are very similar in their structure.

The length of courses offered by both platforms varies, but overall career tracks are similar in training time. 

Projects

Once you’ve learned different skills within DataCamp or Dataquest, you can move into projects.

These projects give you the opportunity to practice the skills you’ve built in the courses.

Both platforms offer many different projects that let you try out your skills with guided support.

I’d like to see more projects that push you to figure out and end goal and not walk you through every step of the way, but I also acknowledge this would be difficult to offer automated support since there’s usually multiple approaches that can work to get to the same goal.

Learning Style

As with most other areas, there isn’t much difference in learning styles for Dataquest vs DataCamp. 

Both platforms are based around teaching and practicing.

On DataCamp, this teaching is delivered via video while Dataquest opts for fully written instruction.

Which is better?

It really just depends which you prefer. The content itself is similar in both.

Once you’ve gone through the instructions, you jump into exercises where you’ll go through samples and then practice the skill covered in the lesson.

Code Feedback

With both platforms, you get feedback right away on your code.

This is great for those that are just learning. You can also get hints and solutions if you’re struggling with answers.

Here’s where one of the major differences lies. 

I noticed when I was running or submitting code in Dataquest that it always seemed to take a few seconds to respond even on really simple things.

It’s not a big inconvenience, but it got worse further through the courses and wasn’t present at all in DataCamp.

I ran many test scenarios to confirm it was the platform and not another factor. Based on many other reviews I’ve read, this is a very common issue with Dataquest affecting many - but not all - users.

Cost

Both DataCamp and Dataquest have 3 pricing levels with some free trial options. 

To get full access to the DataCamp platform, you’ll pay $399 for the year, though they often run specials with significant discounts.

To get full access to the Dataquest platform, you’ll pay $49/month. Dataquest also runs periodic sales that discount this price.

Support & Community

Support is similar on both DataCamp and Dataquest. 

All of the paid DataCamp plans give you access to a Slack community where you can ask questions, discuss what you’re working on, and help others. The premium plan also offers priority support.

Dataquest gives you access to a support community on every level of plan. You’ll also have the career community access on the premium plans.

Overall Dataquest vs DataCamp Review

When it comes to Dataquest vs DataCamp, I personally choose DataCamp and recommend it to others. 

Since there are so many similarities, it comes down to the details.

DataCamp consistently works faster than Dataquest and offers more for the money. 

They also more frequently run sales, bringing the cost down below that of Dataquest.

I’d recommend signing up for a free trial before purchasing so you can see how you like the platform for yourself.