Google Classroom vs Moodle – 2025 Comparison
Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist
Google Classroom vs Moodle Table of Contents
- What is Google Classroom?
- Who is Google Classroom for?
- Key Benefits of Google Classroom
- What is Moodle?
- Who is Moodle for?
- Key Benefits of Moodle
- Who are Google Classroom and Moodle best for?
- Google Classroom vs Moodle Feature Comparison
- Google Classroom vs Moodle Pricing
- Google Classroom Pros and Cons
- Moodle Pros and Cons
- How do implementation and onboarding impact user adoption?
- How do Google Classroom and Moodle support accessibility for diverse learners?
- Future Trends in LMS Technology and the Classroom of Tomorrow
- Verdict – Google Classroom vs Moodle: Which software is better?
- Google Classroom vs Moodle: FAQ
What is Google Classroom?
Google Classroom is an online learning platform where educators and trainers create, manage, and conduct remote learning. It has collaboration, communication, and course management tools, making it a comprehensive solution for virtual training environments.
A part of Google Workspace, it is one of the free LMS platforms that can be upgraded to a paid version to maximize premium features, like added licenses or unlimited originality reporting. It comes with a mobile app. However, other Google Workspace apps may also be needed for a seamless mobile learning experience. With Google Classroom, educators and learners can get the most out of a familiar and easy-to-use platform.
Featured Education LMS Software Products
$4.08 per user per month
(billed annually)
30 days
Yes
Editor's Take
iSpring Learn is a user-friendly learning management system (LMS) tailored for businesses and educators to deliver eLearning content efficiently. It offers features like course creation, quizzes, learning paths, and progress tracking. iSpring Learn supports various content types, including video lectures and interactive modules, and integrates with the iSpring Suite authoring tool for seamless content development. Pros include a straightforward interface, mobile-friendly access, and powerful reporting tools. However, customization options can be limited, and pricing may be high for smaller organizations. It is ideal for corporate training, employee development, and onboarding, providing a reliable platform for scalable eLearning.
Expert Score
In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.
1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software's overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.
2. Cost - scoring weight 15%
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It's crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.
3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.
4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.
5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.
Custom
14 days
Course creation, customizable learning paths, automated assessments
Editor's Take
SkyPrep is an intuitive Learning Management System (LMS) designed to streamline online training and onboarding for businesses, educational institutions, and non-profits. Known for its user-friendly interface, SkyPrep makes it easy for administrators to create, manage, and deliver training content while providing learners with a seamless, engaging experience. Key features include course creation tools, customizable learning paths, automated assessments, and reporting capabilities, enabling organizations to tailor training programs to individual or group needs.
One of SkyPrep’s strengths is its ability to support a range of media, including videos, presentations, and quizzes, making it versatile for various training formats. Its analytics and reporting tools offer valuable insights into learner progress, course completion rates, and knowledge gaps, empowering administrators to refine training content and improve learning outcomes.
The platform also integrates with popular software like Google Workspace, Salesforce, and Zoom, enhancing collaboration and accessibility for remote teams. With features like automated notifications, compliance tracking, and gamification, SkyPrep helps organizations keep learners engaged while ensuring that critical training requirements are met.
SkyPrep offers scalable pricing plans to fit small teams, growing businesses, and large enterprises, making it a cost-effective solution for organizations looking to simplify training and boost team performance. Overall, SkyPrep is an effective LMS choice for organizations that prioritize ease of use, customizability, and a comprehensive suite of learning management tools.
Expert Score
In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.
1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software’s overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.
2. Cost - scoring weight 15%
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It’s crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.
3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.
4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.
5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.
$8 per user per month
30 days
Yes
Editor's Take
360Learning is a collaborative learning platform designed to enable companies to create, manage, and distribute learning content at scale. It focuses on enabling a culture of peer learning by allowing employees to collaborate on course creation, share knowledge, and receive feedback in real-time. This platform is especially beneficial for organizations that prioritize continuous learning and development, offering tools for course authoring, learner engagement, and progress tracking.
Key features of 360Learning include a user-friendly course builder, integrations with major LMS platforms, and powerful analytics for tracking learning outcomes. Its emphasis on collaboration makes it stand out, helping companies leverage internal expertise while fostering a culture of shared learning.
Overall, 360Learning is ideal for businesses looking to enhance employee training through a more collaborative, engaging, and efficient approach.
Expert Score
In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.
1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software's overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.
2. Cost - scoring weight 15%
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It's crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.
3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.
4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.
5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.
Who is Google Classroom for?
Anyone with a Google account can use Google Classroom and the entire Workspace for Education suite. However, its main clients are K-12, higher educational institutions, homeschool co-ops, and nonprofit organizations worldwide. Its features are user-friendly for teachers, students, and administrators. Independent trainers, families, and individuals wishing to facilitate their learning can also use Google Classroom.
Key Benefits of Google Classroom
In this Google Classroom vs Moodle guide, our team highlights the key benefits of Google Classroom to help you select the best LMS that suits your organization’s needs.
- Ease of use. Its straightforward UI is intuitively designed to point users in the right direction,n which makes it one of the easiest LMS to use.
- Low costs. Google Classroom is free, while upgraded plans start at low costs, providing a budget-friendly option for many institutions.
- Automated tasks. It eliminates simple tasks and uses AI to assist learning, saving time and offering well-rounded insights that leverage technology.
What is Moodle?
Moodle is an open-source LMS that tailors and manages eLearning courses. Its platform aids educators in monitoring and evaluating learner progress and guides student learning through its inclusive design and accessibility options. Moreover, its long list of certified integrations and flexible controls enables educators to foster 360-degree personalized learning experiences for each student.
Users can use it as a free-to-download LMS that can be hosted on their own servers or partner with a hosting service provider. It also has a customizable app that institutions can alter according to their needs, from the look of landing pages to streamlining workflows.
Who is Moodle for?
The audience of Google Classroom vs Moodle is similar. It is primarily designed for educational institutions, including K-12 schools, colleges, and universities. Vocational training facilities and workplace learning centers can also benefit from Moodle’s features. Organizations also use its Workplace solution for corporate training and professional development.
Key Benefits of Moodle
Since eLearning trends and insights change often to accommodate technological and educational innovations, it is best to weigh the advantages of both products. This section will focus on Moodle’s key benefits to shed some light on why institutions choose it over other LMS.
- Customizable options. From content creation to brand management, Moodle empowers organizations to take complete control over their eLearning content.
- Flexible deployment plans. It provides two deployment options with varying pricing plans that let users choose the one that aligns with their objectives.
- Accessible learning. Moodle supports over 140 languages, reaching diverse learner populations that can access course materials in their preferred language.
Who are Google Classroom and Moodle best for?
When comparing Google Classroom vs Moodle, institutions must consider several key factors to determine which learning management system for schools or organizations meets their eLearning needs. This includes identifying the target customer group or the specific situation for which the product is best suited.
Google Classroom is best for:
- Institutions that already use Google Workspace tools for easier integration
- K-12 and smaller institutions where simplicity and ease of use are prioritized
- Organizations with limited budgets, as it offers a free version with essential features
Meanwhile, Moodle is best for:
- Large institutions and enterprises with complex user hierarchies and diverse roles
- Educators who need more flexible course structures, assessments, and learning paths
- Educational organizations that require extensive customizations and want to highlight their brand
Google Classroom vs Moodle Feature Comparison
This section breaks down the core features of Google Classroom vs Moodle. Knowing which LMS tools you or your organization needs and comparing and contrasting them with these two products can help you make better decisions that could greatly impact long-term objectives.
Content Creation and Management
Creating, sharing, and managing content is important for a smooth eLearning experience. Both products leverage this feature to disseminate information and administer assessments. Google Classroom enables you to create classes where you can post announcements, set deadlines, and tag content according to topics. Moreover, using Google Workspace tools allows you to attach files, videos, and assignments. Moodle works similarly but uses built-in tools to create quizzes, add documents, and organize content into folder-like indexes.
Integrations, Plugins, and Add-ons
Both products allow educators to use additional tools either to streamline processes or enhance learning experiences. Classroom enables third-party add-ons, like Kahoot and Pear Deck, to make learning fun or browser extensions to configure a workaround for some features that are not available in the free or lower-tiered versions. Meanwhile, Moodle has a list of certified LMS integrations and plugins, like ReadSpeaker and Grid Format, that make content accessible, collaborative, and organized.
Grading and Analytics
Choosing the best Google Classroom vs Moodle grading and analytics tools is important in monitoring student progress and collecting reports. Google Classroom includes total points, rubrics, or weighted-by-category grading systems, while analytics is only available in its highest subscription plan. Moodle follows a direct marking guide, or rubric grading system. Apart from grade book reports, educators and administrators can also view in-depth analytics with the help of Moodle’s plugins.
Security and Safety
Both products deliver the best safety and security protocols to protect your data, information, and privacy. Google Classroom employs encrypted in-transit and at-rest data, and its built-in security fights against spam, malware, phishing, and block threats. However, some of these features are only available in half of its subscription plans. Meanwhile, Moodle monitors its source code closely and regularly checks its security programs to ensure the security of its open-source software.
Google Classroom vs Moodle Pricing
In this section of our Google Classroom vs Moodle guide, we compare the pricing and subscription plans of the two products. Google Workspace for Education, including Google Classroom, offers paid plans with a 60-day free trial with 50 licenses.
- Fundamentals: Free for eligible institutions
- Education Standard: $3/student/year
- Teaching and Learning Upgrade: $4/license/month
- Education Plus: $5/student/year
The main differences between Google’s plans are the limits on video conferencing controls and participants, storage, and advanced features such as smart cloud searching, practice sets, interactive questions for YouTube video assignments, and analytics.
As for Moodle, apart from its downloadable version, users can avail of a paid off-the-shelf cloud-based Moodle LMS. This option is free for a 45-day trial and scalable for its standard or premium subscription plans.
- Self-hosted: Free to download
- *Starter: $130/year for 50 users
- *Mini: $210/year for 100 users
- *Small: $400/year for 200 users
- *Medium: $910/year for 500 users
- *Large: $1,730/year for 1,000 users
- *Premium or deployed via a Moodle Certified Service Provider: by quote
* MoodleCloud LMS solution
Moodle's self-hosted version encompasses its most frequently used features, but users have limited flexibility when it comes to customizations, integrations, and support. Conversely, its other versions offer more extensive possibilities in these areas.
Google Classroom Pros and Cons
Any organization wishing to manage courses online must examine blended learning pros and cons to develop their best practices. Moreover, weighing the benefits and drawbacks of Google Classroom vs Moodle can help them realize what they need in an LMS.
Google Classroom Pros
- Cohesive integrations. Google Classroom seamlessly integrates with the rest of Google Workspace tools like Google Docs, Drive, Meet, and Tasks, which sets it apart from other Google Classroom alternatives. This capability streamlines the workflow and provides a unified experience for educators and learners.
- Encourages collaboration. It facilitates effortless collaboration between and among educators and students. Both can share documents and assignments or work on decks and projects in a centralized hub.
Google Classroom Cons
- Limited functions. Some vital functions, like analytics and flexible video conferencing controls, are not available in the first two subscription plans while competitors offer these features either for free or at lower costs.
- Dependency on Workspace. Although Google Classroom integrates well with other Google tools, other organizations might feel constrained or prefer apps offering more extensive functionalities and usability.
Moodle Pros and Cons
Whether you are an educator, student, or administrator, looking into Google Classroom vs Moodle pros and cons can arm you with valuable information to select the best LMS that aligns with your institution’s goals.
Moodle Pros
- Powerful customization. Moodle’s customization feature is like no other Moodle alternatives, empowering educators and administrators to provide personalized learning experiences and edit LMS controls according to their preferences.
- Free and open-sourced. Its free downloadable version attracts many customers and creates robust community support, encouraging the vendors to roll out continuous updates to improve Moodle.
Moodle Cons
- Clunky UI. Moodle is highly customizable, yet it may look clunky and confusing to some users, pushing the need for a more appealing or organized UI.
- High learning curve. Implementing and managing a self-hosted Moodle product may require technical expertise and resources, which can be a challenge for some organizations that are not tech-savvy or do not have the staff to maintain it.
How do implementation and onboarding impact user adoption?
Effective implementation is essential for maximizing user adoption. Google Classroom benefits from a streamlined integration with familiar Google Workspace apps and offers intuitive in-platform guidance that minimizes the learning curve for educators and students. In contrast, Moodle’s extensive customization options and flexible deployment models may require more robust planning and dedicated IT support during the onboarding phase. Organizations should also consider how integrating additional tools, such as ecommerce software, can open up new operational avenues and support scalable growth over time.
How do Google Classroom and Moodle support accessibility for diverse learners?
When choosing between Google Classroom and Moodle, it’s essential to consider how each platform accommodates diverse learner needs, ensuring accessibility for all students. Accessibility features make online learning more inclusive, enabling students with different learning styles and needs to participate fully.
- Language Support: Moodle supports over 140 languages, making it highly adaptable for international and multilingual institutions. Google Classroom, integrated with Google Translate, also supports a wide range of languages, although not to the same extent as Moodle.
- Text-to-Speech and Readability Tools: Both platforms can integrate with text-to-speech plugins, helping visually impaired or dyslexic students. Moodle offers extensive plugins like ReadSpeaker, which converts text to audio, aiding students with reading difficulties.
- Mobile Accessibility: Google Classroom and Moodle provide mobile apps, allowing students to access course content on various devices. This feature is particularly useful for learners without consistent computer access, ensuring continuous learning opportunities.
- Visual and Structural Customization: Moodle offers more customization options, allowing educators to create visually distinct themes, simplify navigation, and organize content to support different cognitive needs, enhancing accessibility and user experience for diverse learners.
Through these accessibility options, Google Classroom and Moodle create inclusive learning environments, supporting institutions focused on equitable access to education.
Future Trends in LMS Technology and the Classroom of Tomorrow
As the demands of modern education evolve, the technology supporting it must keep pace. Both Google Classroom and Moodle are adapting to include advanced capabilities shaped by emerging trends in the LMS landscape. One revolutionary shift is the growing prevalence of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. AI-powered tools can analyze learning patterns, providing educators with actionable insights to improve course delivery. These features may soon become integral to both platforms, allowing for tailored educational pathways that adapt in real-time to a learner's progress.
Additionally, increased emphasis on mobile learning compatibility is driving innovation in LMS platforms. With many students and professionals accessing course materials on-the-go, platforms like Moodle are enhancing their apps to deliver seamless learning experiences across devices. Similarly, Google Classroom continues to optimize its integration with mobile-friendly Google Workspace tools to ensure uninterrupted access for users.
Another significant shift is the incorporation of gamification features to motivate learners. Features such as badges, leaderboards, and customizable milestones are gaining traction in platforms, boosting engagement and retention. Both Google Classroom and Moodle are expected to expand their offerings in this area to meet market demand.
Organizations seeking the most versatile solutions should explore how these innovations are shaping the broader LMS ecosystem. For a deeper dive into the capabilities of advanced platforms, including future-ready features, consider this in-depth guide to selecting the best cloud based learning management system.
The future of eLearning will be defined by adaptability, personalization, and accessibility. As these trends become mainstream, they will further enable educators and administrators to bridge learning gaps, accommodate diverse needs, and create rich, interactive learning environments.
Verdict – Google Classroom vs Moodle: Which software is better?
In our Google Classroom vs Moodle guide, we discussed the main features of the two products, thoroughly explaining their pros and cons, pricing tiers, and best use cases. Both products are mainly used for educational purposes, but aside from the best LMS for training providers, Google Classroom or Moodle can also be used in training for non-profit organizations. Selecting one over the other will depend on your institution’s needs.
We recommend that institutions choose Google Classroom if they have previously incorporated other Google Workspace tools in their routines. Due to its familiarity and simple UI, both old and new users can navigate the product easily. Small institutions can greatly benefit from its features, but large organizations can also make the most out of it by discussing their needs with the vendor. Moreover, to fully maximize it, it is best to avail of the highest plan, which provides access to advanced features. Google Classroom is still a good option for budget-conscious users, but they may be limited by its functions.
Therefore, we propose using Moodle if your institution follows a budget and wishes to customize its LMS. Moreover, you should have a dedicated IT team to install, maintain, troubleshoot, and introduce other departments to Moodle’s self-hosted product. This option allows you to meet all fundamental eLearning needs for free. If cost is not an issue, we suggest choosing a partnered Moodle provider or going for their cloud version, which is hassle-free and offers full customization controls. It may require a period of adjustment, but this alternative offers numerous benefits for both small and large organizations.
Key Insights
- Ease of Use: Google Classroom is known for its straightforward and intuitive user interface, making it ideal for educators and students who seek a simple and familiar platform for remote learning.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Google Classroom offers a free version with essential features and low-cost paid plans, making it a budget-friendly option for institutions with limited resources.
- Automation and Integration: Google Classroom automates simple tasks and integrates seamlessly with other Google Workspace tools, enhancing productivity and collaboration.
- Customization and Flexibility: Moodle stands out for its extensive customization options and flexibility, allowing educators to tailor the platform to meet specific instructional needs and branding requirements.
- Deployment Options: Moodle offers both self-hosted and cloud-based solutions, catering to institutions of all sizes and providing scalable options to match their growth and technical capabilities.
- Accessibility: Moodle supports over 140 languages, making it accessible to a diverse learner population, and includes built-in tools to create quizzes, add documents, and organize content efficiently.
FAQ
Which is better, Google Classroom or Moodle?
The choice between Google Classroom and Moodle depends on the specific needs of your organization. Google Classroom is better suited for institutions already using Google Workspace tools or those that prioritize ease of use and collaboration. Moodle is ideal for organizations that require extensive customization, flexible deployment options, and a wide range of integrations.
Is Google Classroom the best LMS?
Google Classroom is one of the best LMS platforms for educational institutions and non-profit organizations looking for a user-friendly and cost-effective solution. Its seamless integration with Google Workspace tools and straightforward interface make it a powerful platform for managing courses and fostering collaboration.
What is the advantage of Moodle?
Moodle’s main advantage is its flexibility and customization options. It allows users to fully personalize the platform, from branding elements to course content and workflows. Additionally, Moodle offers a free, open-source version, providing essential LMS features without additional costs.
Is Moodle better than Google Classroom?
Moodle may be a better option for institutions needing extensive customization and flexibility in deployment. Its open-source nature and range of customization controls make it suitable for unique instructional methodologies and branding requirements. However, Google Classroom is better for users seeking a straightforward, easy-to-use platform integrated with Google Workspace tools.
What are the key benefits of Google Classroom?
Google Classroom offers ease of use with its intuitive interface, cost-effectiveness with free and low-cost paid plans, and enhanced productivity through automation and seamless integration with Google Workspace tools. It also fosters collaboration among educators and students, making it a comprehensive solution for remote learning.
Who can use Google Classroom?
Google Classroom is available to anyone with a Google account, making it accessible to K-12 schools, higher education institutions, homeschool co-ops, nonprofit organizations, independent trainers, families, and individuals wishing to facilitate their learning.
What are the pricing plans for Google Classroom?
Google Classroom offers several pricing plans:
- Fundamentals: Free for eligible institutions
- Education Standard: $3/student/year
- Teaching and Learning Upgrade: $4/license/month
- Education Plus: $5/student/year
What are the key benefits of Moodle?
Moodle provides powerful customization options, flexible deployment plans, and accessible learning with support for over 140 languages. It is a robust platform that allows educators to create personalized learning experiences and manage eLearning courses effectively.
Who can use Moodle?
Moodle is primarily designed for educational institutions, including K-12 schools, colleges, universities, vocational training facilities, and workplace learning centers. It is also used by organizations for corporate training and professional development.
What are the pricing plans for Moodle?
Moodle offers several pricing plans:
- Self-hosted: Free to download
- Starter: $130/year for 50 users
- Mini: $210/year for 100 users
- Small: $400/year for 200 users
- Medium: $910/year for 500 users
- Large: $1,730/year for 1,000 users
- Premium or deployed via a Moodle Certified Service Provider: By quote
