LearnDash stands out with its flexible pricing model and compatibility with all WordPress themes, perfect for established eLearning platforms seeking professional, customizable course creation. However, Tutor LMS appeals with its comprehensive free version and multilingual support, thereby serving broader demographics, making it ideal for startups and those catering to multilingual users.

Comparing LearnDash and Tutor LMS

Key Differences Between LearnDash and Tutor LMS

  • Price: LearnDash has no free version but offers 1 to 25 site licenses, with prices ranging from $199-$369. Tutor LMS offers both a feature-rich free model and premium plans, priced from $149-$999.
  • Language Support: Tutor LMS supports 27 languages, while LearnDash doesn’t mention multilingual support.
  • Industry Recognition: LearnDash is an established, award-winning e-learning solution used by renowned brands. Tutor LMS, with potential, is recognized and used by over 70,000 eLearning creators.
  • Integration: LearnDash integrates with numerous platforms including WooCommerce and Zapier. Tutor LMS’s integration capabilities have been reported as limited.
Comparison LearnDash Tutor LMS
Platform WordPress-based LMS WordPress LMS Plugin
Mobile Compatibility Yes Yes
Pricing Basic ($199), Plus ($229), Pro ($369) Free to $999 for Lifetime
Average User Rating 4.6 83%
Integrated Tools WooCommerce, EDD, Stripe, SamCart, Course Grid, Zapier PayPal, Stripe, WooCommerce, Elementor
Language Support English 27 Languages
Customization Options Mobile learning, personalized views Course builder, quiz creator
Range of Assessment Capabilities Automatic grading, grading scales Custom grading scales
Subscription Pricing Model Starting $159/year $149 to $299 per year, $399 to $999 for lifetime

What Is LearnDash and Who’s It For?

LearnDash is a top-tier WordPress Learning Management System, offering robust course creation features and a customizable design. As a Top 20 Training Software Winner, LearnDash is trusted by brands like Bitesize Bio, The Dance Dojo, and Reliablesoft, offering an impressive suite of features, from quizzes to certificates. It is a fitting solution for anyone looking to create or manage engaging course content on a public or private platform.

Colorful illustration of an instructor explaining a topic to a student in a digital classroom

Pros of LearnDash

  • Top 20 training software winner
  • Flexible pricing models and customizable designs
  • Mobile-compatible and integrates with other platforms like WooCommerce and Zapier
  • Support for various learning types

Cons of LearnDash

  • Lack of a free version or trial
  • Improvements needed in URL structure for SEO and product customization flexibility
  • Room for improvement in user-friendly interface

What Is Tutor LMS and Who’s It For?

Tutor LMS, a WordPress LMS plugin, paves the way for eLearning creators, optimizing course creation and management. It’s an all-inclusive package with unlimited quizzes, assignment scheduling and support in 27 languages. Whether you’re a lone teacher or a multiple instructors operation, Tutor LMS opens the door for your eLearning ambition.

Colorful depiction of a diverse group of students using Tutor LMS on various devices in a well-equipped computer lab

Pros of Tutor LMS

  • Advanced feature-set including a front-end course builder
  • Supports mobile learning and multi-lingual accessibility
  • Extensive user base and positive expert user reviews
  • Complete course marketplace functionality

Cons of Tutor LMS

  • Limited integration capability
  • Alleged misleading feature advertisement
  • Difficulties with WooCommerce integration

LearnDash vs Tutor LMS: Pricing

Both LearnDash and Tutor LMS offer multiple pricing tiers, however, LearnDash doesn’t have a free version unlike Tutor LMS.

LearnDash

LearnDash operates with a license-based pricing model. It provides three distinct plans: Basic ($199/1 site license), Plus ($229/10 site licenses), and Pro ($369/25 site licenses). Despite the absence of a free version or trial, LearnDash adopts a cost-effective approach as compared to other eLearning platforms. The subscription model starts from $159/year. However, it receives some criticism for its pricing structure, implying room for improvement.

Tutor LMS

Tutor LMS offers a unique advantage of providing a basic free version, broadening its users’ horizon. The Pro plans range from $149 to $299 per year, or $399 to $999 for lifetime access, offering varied options in accordance with users’ requirements. The Pro version enhances user experience with more advanced features. All major credit cards along with PayPal and Stripe are acceptable modes of payment. Despite its range of features, there are some concerns relating to the limited integrations and advertised features on offer.

Deciding the Victor: LearnDash or Tutor LMS

Having dissected every nook and corner of both platforms, here is our scientific verdict, fine-tuned for varying audience segments.

Emerging eLearning Entrepreneurs

For the go-getters at the onset of their entry, we strongly suggest LearnDash. Its arsenal furnishes important tools such as certificates, quizzes, and assignments fostering student interaction.Scalability is another feather in its cap, with licensing scalable to accommodate up to 25 sites. With 4.6 average user rating, it’s a cost-effective yet high quality start.

Emerging eLearning entrepreneur brainstorming on a new course plan

Visionary Ed Tech Startups

For ambitious startups planning a global-scale eLearning platform, the Tutor LMS has your back. Its multi-language support (27 languages) sets a solid foundation for your venture’s global wing expansion. What’s more, it’s customizable grading scales allow for a diverse and flexible assessment model.

Tech-savvy professional in front of multiple screens setting-up a global eLearning platform.

Digitized Education Institutes

Universities or education providers transitioning to digital arena will find LearnDash apt due to advanced features like drip content, lesson timers and prerequisites coupled with an administrative feature suite.

A group of college administrators discussing rollout of digitized courses

Final Say: both platforms step up to the plate but if you’re an eLearning entrepreneur aiming for a cost-effective productive start, LearnDash trumps Tutor LMS. For lofty, multilingual eLearning projects with flexible grading system, flock to Tutor LMS. In sum, the winner largely banks upon your target goalpost.

Logan Bellbrook

Content writer @ Aircada with a knack for nature & AR/VR/XR. Blogging the intersection of tech & terrain.