Comparison · Online course platforms
edX vs Skillshare: which is better in 2026?
edX ranks higher in our list of online course platforms (#3 against #7, score 87.0 against 78.0).
- 87.0Editorial score78.0
- 3Platforms2
- YesFree to useNo
- NoOpen sourceNo
Which should you choose?
Choose edX if you want
University courses and verified certificates.
University courses that many learners can take without paying, with verified certificates and degree programs. Its practice tools are thinner than those of coding platforms, and credentials cost extra.
Choose Skillshare if you want
Creative classes and project-based learning.
Project-based creative classes taught by working professionals, with a community of students. It lists no free tier and is less useful for formal credentials.
The main differences
- Only edX runs on Android.
- edX can be used for free; Skillshare requires payment.
Side by side
 edX |  Skillshare | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | 87.0 | 78.0 |
| Rank in list | #3 of 10 | #7 of 10 |
| Price | Free plan, paid upgradesFree account; verified certificates and degrees cost extra | SubscriptionSingle paid subscription; no free tier listed on the site |
| Free to use | Yes | No |
| Open source | No | No |
| Platforms | WebiOSAndroidWeb, iOS, Android | WebiOSWeb, iOS |
| Made by | Not stated | Not stated |
| Credentials offered | Certificates and degrees | Class projects |
| Strongest subjects | Computer science and business | Creative skills |
| Who teaches | Universities and institutions | Working professionals |
| Self-hosted option | No | No |
| Best for | University courses and verified certificates | Creative classes and project-based learning |
| Strengths |
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| Limits |
|
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| Links | Visit site | Visit site |
Questions about edX vs Skillshare
- Is edX better than Skillshare?
- edX ranks higher in our list of online course platforms (#3 against #7, score 87.0 against 78.0). edX is best for: university courses and verified certificates. Skillshare is best for: creative classes and project-based learning.
- Which is cheaper, edX or Skillshare?
- edX: Free account; verified certificates and degrees cost extra. Skillshare: Single paid subscription; no free tier listed on the site.
- Do edX and Skillshare run on the same platforms?
- edX supports Web, iOS, Android. Skillshare supports Web, iOS.
Choosing between the two
Learning Center
1:17How to decide between two good optionsSettle a close call by sorting it by how hard it is to undo, setting a deadline, scoring the criteria as a tie-breaker and writing down why you chose.
1:20How to compare products fairly: what to keep in mindDefine the job, cap the must-haves, compare like with like, count total cost over one period and weigh the criteria. Includes a worked example.