LearnDash vs Moodle – 2025 Comparison
Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist
LearnDash vs Moodle Comparison Table of Contents
- What is LearnDash?
- Who is LearnDash for?
- Key Benefits of LearnDash
- What is Moodle LMS?
- Who is Moodle for?
- Key Benefits of Moodle LMS
- Who are LearnDash and Moodle for?
- LearnDash vs Moodle Feature Comparison
- LearnDash vs Moodle Pricing
- How to Choose the Right LMS Based on Your Needs
- How can integrated appointment scheduling optimize your LMS workflow?
- LearnDash Pros and Cons
- Moodle LMS Pros and Cons
- How can user support options influence your choice between LearnDash and Moodle?
- Verdict- LearnDash vs Moodle: Which software is better?
- LearnDash vs Moodle FAQ
What is LearnDash?
LearnDash is a learning management system tool that helps in designing course models and creating a website that can be used by course creators to sell their digital products. It is a WordPress plugin, which means you need to have an existing account or knowledge about WordPress in order to be able to utilize LearnDash efficiently.
This software offers seamless integration with various e-commerce tools to help those who are just starting out in the business of online courses. Since this is a self-hosted LMS tool, you also have the freedom to customize themes and build a course outline according to your skills and preferences. However, when it comes to the comparison between LearnDash vs Moodle LMS, LearnDash costs more since Moodle is basically free for everyone.
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 LearnDash for?
For WordPress users who want to easily create and sell courses, this platform is one of the top choices among other LearnDash alternatives. This LMS software is best suited for entrepreneurs and small to midsize companies that want to reach a larger audience and grow their business when it comes to selling courses.
Key Benefits of LearnDash
- LearnDash has a course outline AI module to help you choose topics easily and design an outline.
- They have a focus mode for students who want to eliminate distractions.
- Their course creation wizard allows the creator to paste a video URL and turn it into a course in under a minute.
- Creators can fully customize their dashboard and course themes.
- They have an automated notification feature, so students can receive instant feedback.
- They allow course cloning, so creators can duplicate content and start a new course.
- Creators have access to their site’s analytics and audience metrics.
What is Moodle LMS?
Moodle LMS is a free and open-sourced e-learning tool that allows course creators to deliver content and tasks in various formats. This software offers categories for creators to easily organize courses, as well as many enrollment options for students. Moodle LMS also has a native mobile app that is free to use without coding. However, when it comes to LearnDash vs Moodle LMS, the latter only offers basic learning features.
With Moodle LMS, you can freely choose and pay only for the features you need, so you will not need to spend extra on other features that are not fit for your needs. Additionally, this free LMS software has various useful integrations, such as video conferencing, plagiarism detection, and student information systems.
Who is Moodle for?
Moodle LMS is for both students and course creators who want an e-learning platform that is free and easy to use. This LMS tool is best for those who are just starting their e-commerce business since it does not cost as much as some of the other Moodle alternatives. Additionally, when it comes to LearnDash vs Moodle LMS, the latter offers a more easy-to-use interface for beginners who want a simple onboarding process
Key Benefits of Moodle LMS
- Moodle LMS allows video conferencing, plagiarism detection, and other LMS integrations.
- It is free, accessible, and you can choose the add-ons you want.
- It offers integrated content accessibility checkers and text-to-speech tools.
- Moodle has a native app that can be accessed on mobile devices.
- Moodle LMS supports logs and reports to help creators track students’ progress.
Who are LearnDash and Moodle for?
- LearnDash is for WordPress users who want to add an LMS plugin to their website.
- Moodle LMS is ideal for students and creators who are looking for more cost-effective LMS software.
- LearnDash is ideal for entrepreneurs and small companies.
- LearnDash is for students and creators who want LMS software that offers advanced learning features.
- In terms of LearnDash vs Moodle LMS, Moodle is ideal for those who want easy accessibility since there is a Moodle native app.
LearnDash vs Moodle Feature Comparison
Customization options
In terms of customization options between LearnDash vs Moodle LMS, there is a noticeable difference. LearnDash offers a customizable dashboard and course themes, so you can build a unique brand image. On the other hand, the free version of Moodle is not customizable. However, you can have the option to customize your Moodle dashboard by purchasing the high-end Moodle Partner package.
E-commerce tools
Between LearnDash vs Moodle LMS, LearnDash is more ideal for selling online courses and memberships. LearnDash can easily be integrated with e-commerce platforms such as PayPal, Stripe, and WooCommerce. Moodle LMS also has a payment gateway plugin that you can add if you want to monetize your courses, but generally, Moodle is not designed for e-commerce. Overall, between LearnDash vs Moodle LMS, LearnDash remains more convenient when it comes to starting an e-commerce business selling digital products.
Learning features
When it comes to the learning features between LearnDash vs Moodle LMS, both have excellent features such as content gamification, activity grading, and synchronous and asynchronous learning. Both programs also allow creators to sell courses and organize them easily using categories. The main difference between the two when it comes to learning features is that LearnDash offers a more dynamic content delivery system as well as easier course creation.
Additionally, since LearnDash is a WordPress plugin, you need to be knowledgeable about WordPress first before getting the LMS plugin. This can be difficult for beginners to navigate, so if you prefer a more direct learning system, Moodle LMS will suit you better. Overall, when it comes to the best LMS in customer training, LearnDash still has an advantage.
Accessibility
In terms of accessibility, Moodle LMS offers better features since it is open-sourced and can be used by anyone in the world. Moodle also has a mobile app and a text-to-speech feature, which make it easier for students and creators to interact and exchange feedback. On the other hand, LearnDash can also be used by anyone, but it will cost more. This is because LearnDash integrates easily with e-commerce tools and other platforms, such as MailChimp, to let sellers create subscriptions.
This is generally acceptable if you want to monetize your knowledge, but if you just want to create an e-learning community, then Moodle is more cost-effective. Moodle also has a built-in video conferencing feature, which LearnDash does not currently have.
Content creation and management
In terms of content creation and management between LearnDash vs Moodle LMS, both software provide enough tools. However, since WordPress is known for its better content management system, LearnDash might be the better option. Creators can freely organize, design, and present their courses in any way they prefer.
Between LearnDash vs Moodle, LearnDash also offers a wide selection of themes that you can use for your e-learning site. Moodle does a decent job of content creation and management, but it does not have the choice of themes that LearnDash offers.
LearnDash vs Moodle Pricing
One of the major differences between LearnDash vs Moodle LMS is their pricing. As we mentioned before, Moodle LMS is open-sourced and free, while LearnDash requires a subscription payment. LearnDash is an example of learning management system that is ideal for those who want to generate income from teaching and sharing their skills. They offer monthly subscriptions for both beginners and professionals in course selling, as well as the ability to choose add-ons.
Moodle also has a similar option to choose add-ons and the number of sites that can be used with the LMS tool. Aside from the free version, users of this platform also have the option to pay for a subscription. Since Moodle LMS is free, it is expected that it will have limited features as well as limited payment gateways for entrepreneurs.
To give you more insight about the difference in pricing between the two programs, here is a brief comparison of their main subscription offers:
LearnDash
LearnDash Cloud Starter (for beginners):
- $25 per month, annually
- $29 per month
LearnDash Cloud Growth (comes with extra storage and bandwidth):
- $41 per month, annually
- $49 per month
LearnDash Cloud Pro (unlimited access for large companies):
- $83 per month, annually
- $99 per month
Moodle LMS
Starter at $120.00 per year.
Mini at $210.00 per year.
Small at $380.00 per year.
Medium at $890.00 per year.
Large at $1710.00 per year.
How to Choose the Right LMS Based on Your Needs
When deciding between LearnDash and Moodle, it’s crucial to assess your specific requirements to ensure a productive and cost-effective outcome. Here are some essential factors to help you make a well-informed choice:
- Budget Considerations: If affordability is a priority, Moodle clearly has an edge due to its free version and open-source nature. On the other hand, LearnDash’s subscription-based models offer additional features tailored to professional course creators who aim to monetize their expertise.
- Customization Capability: For businesses and educators who value branding and unique design, LearnDash offers extensive customization options through its wide variety of themes and integration with WordPress. While Moodle allows modifications, these may require technical expertise due to its open-source framework.
- E-Commerce Focus: If your primary goal is to sell courses with ease, LearnDash might be the better fit, thanks to its seamless integration with e-commerce platforms like WooCommerce and payment gateways such as PayPal and Stripe. Moodle, while equipped with basic monetization plugins, is more focused on creating a collaborative learning environment.
- Scalability and Support: Organizations planning for long-term growth should consider the scalability and support offerings of each platform. LearnDash provides access to robust customer support and resources, while Moodle relies heavily on its user community and additional paid services for advanced support.
To explore more alternatives and find the ideal LMS tailored to your needs, check this comprehensive guide to the best cloud based LMS solutions.
Carefully evaluating these aspects will provide clarity in making the right choice, ensuring that your chosen LMS aligns perfectly with your goals and operational strategies.
How can integrated appointment scheduling optimize your LMS workflow?
Integrated appointment scheduling can complement LMS functionality by streamlining instructor availability, session bookings, and student consultations without disrupting the core learning experience. Implementing an efficient scheduling system simplifies the process of setting up office hours, managing consultation sessions, and coordinating live webinars, ultimately enhancing learner engagement and operational efficiency. For organizations seeking to integrate robust scheduling capabilities alongside LMS features, utilizing the best scheduling software can provide the necessary tools to maintain timely communication and resource allocation.
LearnDash Pros and Cons
Pros:
- There are many options for customizable themes and course displays.
- It can be used with many e-commerce tools.
- A course creation wizard and an AI module allow faster course creation
- Allows students to be awarded official certificates
- Allows drip-feed lessons and other dynamic content delivery systems
Cons:
- You have to shoulder the overhead expenses.
- No built-in marketing and promotional tools
- It can be difficult to navigate for beginners.
Moodle LMS Pros and Cons
Pros:
- It is free and open-sourced.
- You can choose the plugins you want to add.
- They have a native mobile app.
- Allows manual grading for students.
- Allows blended learning
Cons:
- Limited learning features
- Not ideal for entrepreneurs because of limited payment gateways.
- There are not many customizable options for course creators.
How can user support options influence your choice between LearnDash and Moodle?
When choosing an LMS, available support options are crucial, as they can affect user experience and ease of adoption. Here’s how LearnDash and Moodle compare in support:
- LearnDash Support: LearnDash offers email and ticket-based support, along with detailed documentation, tutorials, and an active user community. For new users or those requiring prompt assistance, this structured support ensures guidance through setup and troubleshooting.
- Moodle Support: As an open-source platform, Moodle relies on community-driven support through forums, documentation, and user-contributed tutorials. Paid versions offer enhanced support, with access to dedicated help desks and support specialists for faster resolutions.
These options provide essential insight into each platform’s approach to user support. Consider your team’s technical experience and the level of guidance required for successful adoption.
Verdict- LearnDash vs Moodle: Which software is better?
When choosing the best LMS, you should consider what your goals are—whether you want to teach more or monetize your knowledge. From there, you can decide which LMS tool is best suited for you. According to our research, Moodle LMS is the better option if you are looking for cost-effective LMS software. It has the necessary learning features, a free version that anyone can use, and the option to add a payment gateway for those who want to earn an income from creating courses.
Moodle LMS is easier to navigate compared to LearnDash and should be enough for beginners and small businesses to grow their audience. For those who want to expand their market reach, Moodle LMS also offers advanced subscription services. Overall, aside from the limited customization options and payment gateways, Moodle LMS is a great LMS tool for both beginners and pros in the e-commerce business.
LearnDash vs Moodle FAQ
Which LMS is better than Moodle?
In terms of quality, many users prefer LearnDash as an alternative to Moodle. LearnDash offers advanced learning features and customization options that Moodle does not have in its free version.
Why is Moodle the best LMS?
Many people consider Moodle to be the best LMS tool since it is free and, therefore, more commonly used compared to other LMS software on the market. Since it is also open-sourced, many developers can enjoy the freedom to modify the codes and make the platform more secure.
Is Moodle the most used LMS?
Yes, Moodle is considered the most used LMS tool currently. It is used by many businesses and organizations, especially those in the field of education.
What is the difference between Moodle and WordPress?
WordPress is a content management system, while Moodle is a learning management system. Typically, WordPress is used to manage content posted on a website or personal blog. On the other hand, Moodle is used to present, distribute, and assess the effectiveness of training and learning materials.
Key Insights
- Customization: LearnDash offers extensive customization options for dashboards and course themes, whereas Moodle’s customization is limited in its free version but can be enhanced through paid packages.
- E-commerce Integration: LearnDash integrates seamlessly with e-commerce platforms like PayPal, Stripe, and WooCommerce, making it more suited for selling online courses. Moodle has basic e-commerce features, but they are not as comprehensive as LearnDash.
- Learning Features: Both LearnDash and Moodle provide excellent learning features, including gamification and activity grading. However, LearnDash has a more dynamic content delivery system and easier course creation tools.
- Accessibility: Moodle is open-source and globally accessible, with features like a mobile app and text-to-speech tools. LearnDash is also accessible but at a higher cost due to its premium integrations and features.
- Content Creation and Management: LearnDash excels with a wide selection of themes and advanced content management, leveraging WordPress’s capabilities. Moodle offers decent tools but lacks the variety of themes available in LearnDash.
- Pricing: Moodle is free and open-sourced, making it a cost-effective option with basic features. LearnDash requires a subscription, offering advanced features ideal for generating income from online courses.
FAQ
- Which LMS is better for entrepreneurs? For entrepreneurs, LearnDash is the better choice due to its advanced e-commerce integration and customizable features, which are essential for selling courses and memberships.
- Can beginners use LearnDash effectively? While LearnDash offers powerful tools, it requires some knowledge of WordPress, which can be a hurdle for beginners. Moodle, with its simpler interface, might be a better starting point for those new to e-learning platforms.
- Is Moodle suitable for large organizations? Yes, Moodle can be suitable for large organizations, especially with its paid subscription options that offer enhanced features and greater scalability.
- What are the main advantages of Moodle’s open-source nature? Moodle’s open-source nature allows for extensive customization, freedom to modify code, and the ability to add various plugins and integrations, making it highly adaptable to specific needs.
- How does LearnDash support course creators? LearnDash supports course creators with features like a course creation wizard, AI-driven course outline tools, customizable dashboards, and detailed analytics, which streamline the course development process.
- What is the cost difference between LearnDash and Moodle? Moodle offers a free version with optional paid packages, while LearnDash requires a subscription starting at $25 per month, offering more advanced features suitable for commercial use.
