Random string generator vs random code generator

As a founder of the codito.io - the random code generator and management platform - I often get asked the same question: why do we call it a "random code generator" instead of the more accurate, tech-sounding "random string generator"?

At its core, what the tool does is straightforward - it creates random sequences of letters, numbers, and sometimes symbols. Technically, those are strings of characters. But we deliberately chose "code" because it aligns far better with how people actually use the output.

Think about it: most users aren't generating these for programming exercises. They're creating promotional codes for e-commerce campaigns, unique lottery identifiers, serial numbers for software licenses, one-time access keys for apps, or redemption tokens for events. In all those real-world cases, everyone calls them "codes" - promo codes, voucher codes, activation codes. Calling our tool a "string generator" would feel disconnected from those practical applications and might even confuse non-technical users.

Another reason is perception. The word "code" implies something purposeful, secure, and exclusive. It carries a sense of value-like a secret key that unlocks something. "String," on the other hand, sounds generic and abstract, almost like loose text floating around. We want visitors to immediately grasp that this tool produces something useful and professional, not just random text.

We also considered search behavior. People searching for solutions type phrases like "generate promo code" or "random code maker", not "random string tool." Using "code" helps us meet users where they are.

Finally, it simply sounds better in marketing copy and feels more approachable. We're building for everyday users-marketers, small business owners, app developers - not just coders.

So, while "string" might be more precise in a computer science textbook, "code" speaks the language our audience already uses.