Online Course Platforms
5 Best Online Learning Platforms to Create and Sell Online Courses
A comprehensive exploration of the best online course platforms that dominate the digital landscape!
These online learning platforms offer unrivaled flexibility, accessibility, and adaptability—everything you need to monetize your knowledge directly through courses that both educate and inspire, reaching your audience no matter where they are on the planet.
Online learning is booming! In 2025, online course platforms aren’t just popular; they’re essential. Whether you’re an individual learner or an organization, choosing the right online learning platform is key to success.
This ultimate guide covers everything you need to know about online course platforms. Discover the benefits, selection criteria, and future trends influencing this dynamic industry. Your journey to online learning mastery starts here.
Our Editor's Top 3 Picks
Online education businesses thrive with these comprehensive online learning platforms. Build, market, and sell courses seamlessly. Professional tools create polished content, fostering growth.
Consistently top-rated for 2025, these 3 online course providers remain reliable choices. Minor ranking fluctuations exist between sources, but their value endures.
FIRST CHOICE
Thinkific is a leading platform for creating, marketing, and selling courses, digital products, communities, and learning experiences.
SECOND CHOICE
Kajabi has everything you need to create, grow, and manage your knowledge and creator business. Start for free.
THIRD CHOICE
Skool is a community platform. You can discover communities or create your own. People earn full-time incomes building on Skool.
We encourage you to read our full review to learn more about each online course platform and choose the best one for your needs.
Let’s start with some theories regarding Online Course Platform!
What is an Online Course Platform?
Online course platforms are digital hubs for education. They empower creators to craft, share, and oversee online courses. These platforms offer tools for engaging learning: video lessons, quizzes, forums. This streamlines teaching and learning, simplifying knowledge sharing. Students learn anytime, anywhere.
Key Features of Online Course Platforms
1/ Course Creation & Management
Instructors effortlessly add videos, PDFs, quizzes, and assignments. Pre-designed templates streamline course setup. Interactive quizzes, forums, and assignments boost student engagement.
2/ Marketing & Sales
Craft enticing sales pages. Execute email campaigns with built-in tools. Amplify course sales through affiliate programs.
3/ Student Engagement
Foster vibrant communities with forums, live events, and webinars. Monitor student progress with grading and certificates. Gamify learning with points, badges, and leaderboards.
4/ E-commerce & Payments
Securely process transactions through integrated payment gateways. Offer flexible pricing: one-time, subscriptions, or payment plans. Attract students with discounts and coupons.
5/ Analytics & Reporting
Gain deep insights into course performance, engagement, and sales. Understand your student base with demographic and behavioral data to refine your approach.
Different Types of Online Course Platforms
Online course platforms come in various flavors, each with unique features and target audiences. Let’s break down the key types:
Standalone Platforms: These are like the DIY of course creation. They provide the tools to build and host your course, but you handle the marketing and website. Perfect for those who want full control over their brand. Top picks include Thinkific (strong creation tools) and LearnWorlds (highly customizable).
All-in-One Platforms: These are the Swiss Army knives of online courses. They offer everything from course building to marketing and sales, all under one roof. Ideal for those who want a hassle-free, integrated solution. Kajabi (email marketing, website building) and Teachable (flexible pricing) are popular choices.
Online Course Marketplaces: Think of these as the Amazon of online learning. Instructors list courses, and the platform handles hosting and marketing, taking a cut of the profits. Udemy (massive user base) and Skillshare (focus on creative skills) are major players.
Enterprise-Level LMS: These are the big guns, designed for large institutions and corporations. They offer extensive customization and integration options. Moodle Academy (open-source) and Blackboard Learn By Anthology (comprehensive features) are widely used in educational settings.
WordPress LMS Plugins: If you have a WordPress site, these plugins let you transform it into a course platform. You get flexibility and control over the learning environment. LearnDash (user-friendly) and LifterLMS (membership sites) are popular options.
Choosing the right platform depends on your needs and budget. Consider the features, level of control, and target audience when making your decision.
What are the Benefits of Using an Online Course Platform?
There are various types of online course platforms available, each with its own advantages and limitations. Here are a few common types:
1/ Flexibility and Convenience: Learn Your Way, on Your Time
Online courses are all about you. No rigid schedules. Study when it suits you. Learn at your speed. Juggle work, family, or whatever life throws your way.
2/ Cost-Effectiveness: Education That Won’t Break the Bank
Forget expensive textbooks or commuting costs. Online courses often cost less – sometimes they’re even free! Companies also save big on training expenses.
3/ Diverse Learning Options: Your Dream Course Awaits
The possibilities are endless. Find courses on topics you won’t find in traditional schools. Academic subjects? Check. Career training? Absolutely. Short courses to boost your skills? You bet.
4/ Enhanced Engagement and Interactivity: Learning That’s Actually Fun
Think online learning is boring? Think again. Videos, quizzes, and interactive elements keep things interesting. Connect with classmates worldwide and even practice new skills in virtual environments.
5/ Personalized Learning Experience: Tailor-Made for You
Online platforms often adapt to your individual needs. Get personalized feedback and focus on areas where you need extra help. Different learning styles? No problem. Courses cater to everyone.
6/ Data-Driven Insights: Data That Makes a Difference
Teachers get insights on how you’re doing, so they can fine-tune the course. You can track your own progress. And companies see the return on their training investments.
7/ Global Networking Opportunities: Build a Network That Spans the Globe
Connect with classmates and experts from all corners of the world. Expand your professional circle through virtual events and forums. You never know what opportunities might arise.
Online education empowers learners. Flexible schedules, diverse courses, and global access. It’s a tailored path to career advancement and personal growth. Businesses benefit too. Cost-effective, scalable training solutions boost employee performance and retention. Online learning is a win-win for individuals and organizations alike.
The Ultimate List of Popular Online Course Platforms
[ Top Online Course Providers of 2025 ]
After searching the market-wide and deep, we’ve decided to feature the following online learning platforms:
- Thinkific
- Kajabi
- Skool
- Authority Hacker Courses
- Teachable
- Skillshare
- Coursera
- Pluralsight
- Podia
- Udemy
- LearnWorlds Academy
- Codecademy
- edX
- LearnDash
- iSpring
- Udacity
- 360training®
- Mindvalley
- Alison
- The Great Courses Plus
- HubSpot Academy
- Blackboard Learn By Anthology
- Moodle Academy
- SamCart
The 5 Best Online Learning Platforms
[ Top Online Course Platforms Ranked & Reviewed for 2025 ]
As we look ahead to 2025, several online course platforms stand out for their innovative features and user-friendly interfaces. When choosing a platform, consider factors such as ease of use, pricing, marketing tools, and integration capabilities to find the best fit for your specific requirements.
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to determine which online course platform is the best fit for your needs. To help you make an informed decision, here is a list of the 5 best online course providers available today:
Rank #1: Thinkific ~ Create & Sell Courses, Memberships, Digital Products, and Community Access
Thinkific is a leading platform for creating, marketing, and selling courses, digital products, communities, and learning experiences.
Thinkific provides an all-in-one solution for individuals and businesses to create, market, and sell online courses, digital downloads, and communities. The platform allows creators to turn their expertise into a profitable business without requiring extensive technical skills.
Thinkific offers various features, including advanced analytics, payment options, marketing tools, and community support, to help users maximize their revenue and optimize their learning businesses.
Best for
Creating online courses, digital products, and communities that actually sell. An all-in-one solution for building your dream learning business.
Price
Basic plan: $49 /month (for individuals)
Discount & Promotion
Annual pricing (save 25%)
Guarantee & Cancellation
> 14-day free trial available to new users, allowing them to explore the platform before committing. > You can upgrade, downgrade, or cancel your account at any time.
Key Features of Thinkific:
Business Model for Creators:
- Enables users to create online courses, digital products, and communities.
- Provides tools to help users monetize their knowledge effectively.
User-Friendly Platform:
- No technical expertise required to set up and manage offerings.
- AI-powered tools available for faster course creation.
Revenue Optimization:
- Integrates payment processing (Thinkific Payments) to maintain control over transactions.
- Features like Group Orders can increase order value.
Marketing Capability:
- Promotes digital learning products through well-known channels, such as Spotify.
- Offers tools for creating personalized, high-performing landing pages and advanced email marketing automation.
Creator Community:
- Offers access to knowledge and experiences from successful creators across various fields.
- Encourages networking among creators for support and shared success.
Pros:
- Variety of Content Formats: Thinkific supports various content types, including videos, text, quizzes, downloads, and live lessons, keeping your courses engaging.
- Marketing and Sales Features: Built-in tools like email marketing, coupons, and upselling features help you promote your courses and increase revenue.
- No Transaction Fees: Unlike some platforms, Thinkific doesn't take a cut of your course sales.
- Community: Thinkific has a strong community forum where you can connect with other course creators and get advice.
Cons:
- Basic Quizzing Functionality: The quiz options are fairly basic. If you need advanced assessments, you might need to integrate with third-party tools.
Try Thinkific!
Rank #2: Kajabi ~ All-in-one, Ready-to-go Online Course Platform
Kajabi empowers entrepreneurs to offer online courses, coaching programs, communities, newsletters, memberships, and podcasts.
Kajabi is a powerful and comprehensive platform that is well-suited for creators who are serious about building and scaling their online course business.
Build your online business with powerful tools for content creation, marketing automation, and sales, all-in-one complete platform. Turn your passion into profit with Kajabi today!
Best for
Kajabi, a platform that enables creators to build and sell online courses, coaching programs, and other digital products.
Price
Kickstarter plan: $69 / month
Annual Discount & Promotion
Annual (20% Off)
Guarantee & Cancellation
You can cancel Kajabi subscription at any time.
Key Features of Kajabi:
Diverse Income Streams:
- Encouragement to launch multiple revenue sources (newsletters, communities, courses, etc.) to achieve significant income.
Core Offerings:
- Online Courses: Tools for creating and managing online courses.
- Coaching: Features for personalized coaching programs with live video integration.
- Communities: Spaces for members to connect and interact.
- Newsletters: Methods to convert followers into subscribers and paying customers.
- Memberships: Options for recurring revenue through subscriptions.
- Podcasts: Tools to leverage podcasting for additional revenue.
Integrated Tools:
- A comprehensive suite that includes website building, payment processing, analytics, and email marketing, all on a single platform.
Creator Empowerment:
- Creators maintain full ownership of their content and earnings, with no revenue sharing, allowing them to build and scale their business independently.
Scalability:
- The platform is designed to scale, enabling creators to maximize their income potential without limits.
Pros:
- All-in-one platform: Kajabi offers everything you need to run your online business in one place, including website building, course creation, email marketing, sales funnels, and analytics.
- Robust features: Kajabi offers a wide range of features, including a drag-and-drop website builder, customizable templates, various content delivery options, marketing automation tools, and built-in payment processing.
- High-quality video hosting: Kajabi provides fast and unlimited video hosting, allowing you to deliver your course content seamlessly without relying on external platforms.
- Marketing and sales focus: Kajabi provides built-in tools for email marketing, sales funnels, and landing pages, making it easier to promote and sell your courses.
Cons:
- Potential for feature bloat: Kajabi offers a wide range of features, which can be overwhelming for some users who may not need all of them.
Try Kajabi!
Rank #3: Skool ~ Discover Communities or Create Your Own
Skool is a community platform. You can discover communities or create your own. Some are free, some paid. People earn full-time incomes building on Skool. You can, too!
Skool lists various online community groups focused on different interests and topics, including business, self-improvement, personal development, trading, creative arts, health, and more. Each community varies in terms of membership size, privacy settings, and whether there are fees associated with joining.
Best for
Skool is a strong contender for creators seeking a dedicated online community platform to host courses and build community simultaneously.
Price
$99/month
Annual Discount & Promotion
N/A
Guarantee & Cancellation
> 1 plan with everything included. No hidden fees. > Get started with a 14-day free trial. Cancel anytime.
Key Features of Skool:
Diversity of Topics: Communities range in focus from self-improvement, finance, health, education, to hobbies such as sketching and chess.
Membership Types: Most communities are private and some are paid, while others offer free access.
Size of Communities: Membership sizes vary significantly, with some communities having tens of thousands of members.
Purpose: Many communities aim to help members grow personally or professionally, improve skills, or connect with like-minded individuals.
Pros:
- Distraction-free environment: Unlike Facebook Groups, Skool is ad-free, allowing for focused learning and interaction.
- Community-based courses: Skool facilitates a more interactive and engaging learning experience by integrating courses within a community setting.
- Gamification features: Leaderboards and other gamification elements encourage active participation and make learning fun.
- Mobile app: Skool has a mobile app for iOS and Android, making it convenient for users to engage on the go.
- Low transaction fees: Compared to platforms like Patreon, Skool has lower transaction fees for selling courses or memberships.
Cons:
- No native video hosting: You'll need to rely on external platforms like YouTube or Vimeo to host video content.
- One group per plan: Each community requires a separate subscription, which can become expensive for users managing multiple groups.
Try Skool!
Rank #4: Teachable ~ A Versatile Online Course Platform
Teachable is an online platform designed to help entrepreneurs, educators, and creators turn their knowledge into income by allowing them to create and sell various learning products. It offers a user-friendly experience with tools for building online courses, digital downloads, coaching sessions, memberships, and community engagement.
The platform caters to both new and established businesses, facilitating growth through straightforward pricing and robust support. Create and sell the most learning products with the best student experience in the business. Increase your income by selling courses, digital products, and more!
Best for
Teachable is a versatile platform that empowers creators to effectively share their knowledge and monetize it, aiding in both personal and professional growth.
Price
Basic Plan: $59/month
Annual Discount & Promotion
$39/month (Billed annually)
Guarantee & Cancellation
Teachable encourages users to start for free, with straightforward pricing plans that can be upgraded over time as needs evolve.
Key Features of Teachable:
Variety of Learning Products:
- Online Courses: Easily build and customize courses to scale businesses.
- Digital Downloads: Sell templates, audio files, eBooks, and guides with fewer limitations.
- Coaching: Offer personalized one-on-one coaching sessions.
- Memberships: Create subscription models to encourage repeat customers.
- Community: Provide a space for creators and students to connect.
User Support:
- Strong support for creators, especially those starting out, with a focus on ease of use.
Business Growth Tools:
- No-Code Site Builder: Intuitive tools for quickly establishing an online presence.
- AI Tools: Built-in resources to optimize business operations.
E-Commerce Tools: Features to help expand reach and increase earnings.
Customization Options: Ability to tailor the platform to fit personal branding and audience needs.
Pros:
- Unlimited courses and students: Host as many courses as you want and cater to an unlimited number of students, even on the basic plan.
- Variety of pricing options: Offers flexibility for selling your courses - free, one-time purchase, subscriptions, and payment plans.
- Integrated sales and marketing features: Includes tools for creating sales pages, coupons, and affiliate marketing programs.
- Multimedia support: Incorporate various content formats, including video, audio, text, and quizzes.
- Student management tools: Easily track student progress, engagement, and course completion rates.
Cons:
- Limited email marketing features: Lacks advanced email automation capabilities. You can send one-off emails, but you'll need to integrate with a third-party service for more sophisticated email sequences.
Try Teachable!
Rank #5: Skillshare ~ An Online Learning Community Platform / Online Classes for Creatives
Skillshare is an online learning platform designed for creative and curious individuals. It offers thousands of classes across a variety of subjects, such as illustration, design, photography, video production, and freelancing.
The platform enables users to learn from industry professionals through hands-on classes and provides an environment conducive to personal and professional growth.
If you’re an experienced creative pro with tips, techniques, and skills to demonstrate, you can also teach on Skillshare and share your passion with members around the world.
Best for
Skillshare is a learning community for creators. Anyone can take an online class, watch video lessons, create projects, and even teach a class themselves.
Price
Teach on Skillshare and share your passion with members around the world. https://www.skillshare.com/en/teach
Annual Discount & Promotion
Get 7 free days of Skillshare!
Guarantee & Cancellation
Trial Offer: Users can start with a 7-day free trial, after which they can choose a paid membership (monthly or annual). You can cancel subscription anytime.
Key Features of Skillshare:
Diverse Course Offerings: Skillshare provides over 25,000 classes across various creative domains, including music, drawing, painting, animation, photography, and productivity.
Expert Instructors: Classes are taught by experienced professionals and industry leaders, offering insights, techniques, and practical knowledge.
Learning Paths & Certificates: Skillshare offers structured Learning Paths to help users progress in their skills and certificates to acknowledge accomplishments.
Community Support: Skillshare fosters a community of creators and learners, providing a platform for inspiration and networking.
Teaching Opportunities: Individuals interested in sharing their expertise can become teachers on Skillshare.
Team Plans: Skillshare offers team plans for organizations aiming to enhance employee skills and productivity through curated learning resources.
Pros:
- Vast Course Library: Skillshare boasts over 30,000 courses on a wide range of topics, primarily focusing on creative fields like illustration, design, photography, writing, and marketing.
- High-Quality Production: Many courses are well-produced and engaging, featuring experienced instructors and professionals.
- Community Focus: Skillshare encourages interaction with other students and instructors through project feedback, discussions, and workshops.
- Curated Learning Paths: Skillshare offers curated lists of courses to guide you through a specific subject.
Cons:
- Less Focus on Instructor Interaction: Although there's a community aspect, you might not get the same level of personalized feedback or instructor interaction as in smaller, more focused online courses.
Try Skillshare!
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Online Course Platform
When selecting a platform for your online course, ponder these pivotal points:
Course Creation and Management:
- Effortless Use: Seek platforms boasting intuitive course builders and drag-and-drop features. Simple is key.
- Content Variety: Ensure the platform accommodates your preferred content types (videos, quizzes, etc.).
- Personal Touch: Verify options to brand your courses, reflecting your unique style.
Features and Functionality:
- Student Engagement: Prioritize tools like discussions, progress tracking, and completion certificates.
- Assessment Prowess: If needed, confirm quiz creation, assignments, and grading capabilities exist.
- Mobile-Friendly: Opt for a platform that functions seamlessly on mobile devices, catering to learners on the move.
Marketing and Sales Tools:
- Landing Pages: Inquire about built-in tools for crafting course sales pages.
- Email Outreach: Integrated email capabilities can streamline communication and marketing efforts.
- Payment Processing: Secure, flexible payment options (one-time, subscriptions) are essential.
Analytics and Reporting:
- Student Progress: Seek detailed insights into engagement and completion rates.
- Sales Data: Ensure effortless tracking of course sales and revenue.
Pricing and Scalability:
- Pricing Model: Compare various pricing structures (flat fee vs. revenue share) with your budget in mind.
- Scalability: Choose a platform that can expand alongside your business, accommodating more courses and students as you flourish.
Integration and Compatibility:
- Third-Party Integration: Verify compatibility with other tools you utilize (CRM, email marketing).
- Data Export: Ensure effortless exportation of your course content and student data, if necessary.
Support & Resources:
- Customer Support: Prioritize platforms offering dependable technical support through various channels.
- Learning Materials: Tutorials, documentation, and community forums can aid in maximizing platform potential.
Security and Compliance:
- Data Protection: Strong security measures are paramount to safeguarding your data and that of your students.
- Compliance: If applicable, verify adherence to educational standards or regulations pertinent to your field.
Prioritize these factors based on your unique needs and objectives. Whenever possible, leverage free trials to test drive the platform before committing.
Future Trends in Online Course Platforms
Online Course Platforms in 2025: Key Trends Shaping the Future
The landscape of online courses is rapidly evolving. Cutting-edge technologies and innovative teaching methods are driving change. In 2025, several significant trends are poised to redefine online learning.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): Your Personalized Learning Assistant
AI is transforming online education. It’s tailoring courses to individual needs, adjusting difficulty, and offering targeted suggestions. It’s also automating tasks like grading and feedback, freeing educators to focus on meaningful interactions.
- Gamification: Making Learning Fun and Engaging
Gamification injects elements of play into learning. Think badges, leaderboards, and rewards. These features make learning enjoyable and boost active participation. Simulations and interactive activities also promote critical thinking and practical skill application.
- Bite-Sized Learning (Nano-Learning): Education in Quick Bites
Nano-learning breaks down education into easily digestible chunks. Short lessons cater to shorter attention spans. Micro-credentials – short courses leading to certifications – are gaining popularity, offering an alternative to traditional degrees.
- Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR): Immerse Yourself in Learning
Immersive technologies like VR and AR are revolutionizing education. VR replicates real-world scenarios for practical training. AR overlays digital information onto the physical world, creating interactive learning experiences.
- Adaptive Learning: A Tailored Learning Journey
Adaptive learning systems use data to personalize your learning experience. They modify content based on your performance and preferences. Intelligent analytics track your progress, pinpoint areas for improvement, and drive better outcomes.
- Mobile Learning: Education On the Go
With the rise of smartphones and tablets, learning is becoming mobile. Learners can access courses anytime, anywhere. Platforms are optimizing content for mobile devices, ensuring a seamless experience.
- Quality Over Quantity: Less is More
The focus is shifting towards high-quality, concise content. Learners prefer courses that deliver results efficiently. Investing in engaging materials and interactive elements ensures every minute of learning counts.
- Building Trust and Transparency: Earning Your Confidence
In an age of misinformation, trust is paramount. Ethical marketing and transparency about course outcomes build credibility. Showcasing testimonials, credentials, and success stories reassure learners of a course’s value.
- Upskilling and Reskilling: Stay Ahead in the Job Market
The job market is constantly changing. Online platforms are focusing on courses that help you acquire new skills and remain competitive. Micro-credentials offer quick, targeted learning opportunities for specific skills.
- Community Building: Learn Together
Creating a sense of community enhances the learning experience. Discussion forums, group projects, and peer interactions foster collaboration. Online platforms are also facilitating connections among learners, educators, and industry professionals.
Online Course Providers - FAQs
1/ Can I integrate these online course platforms with my existing website or tools?
Integrate your online course with your current website and tools. Many platforms provide options:
- APIs and webhooks: Connect your course with other systems.
- Embed courses: Place courses directly on your website.
- Third-party integrations: Connect with email, CRM, and analytics tools.
- WordPress plugins: Add course functionality to your WordPress site.
- Single sign-on (SSO): Students use one login for everything.
- E-commerce integrations: Seamless payment processing.
- CMS integrations: Manage content easily.
- Custom development: Build complex integrations.
Carefully consider your needs when choosing an online course platform. Some platforms offer more integration choices than others. Select the one that best supports your current tools and systems.
2/ How easy is it to create and launch a course on these online course platforms?
- No code needed! Top course platforms boast drag-and-drop builders and easy templates. Non-techies rejoice!
- Upload videos, PDFs, quizzes – no problem. Most platforms make it a breeze.
- Want your course to reflect your brand? Customization options are often a click away.
- Feeling lost? Some platforms guide you step-by-step through the process.
- Thinkific and others even offer pre-made templates to jumpstart your course.
- Worried about marketing? Many platforms have tools to help you launch and promote.
- Sell with ease thanks to integrated payment systems.
- Get stuck? Documentation, tutorials, and support are at your fingertips.
- Students on the go? Your course will look great on mobile, too.
- With a bit of prep, launch your first course in days – not weeks!
3/ Can I create and sell courses for free?
Some platforms like Thinkific offer free plans to get started. Marketplaces like Udemy allow free course creation but take a revenue share.
Best Online Course Platforms: SUMMARY
Selecting the ideal platform for your online course is crucial. It directly affects your triumph as an educator or institution. Prioritize user-friendliness, adaptable features, cost-effectiveness, and dependable assistance when making your choice.
Stay informed about advancements in artificial intelligence, interactive elements, and mobile learning to maintain a competitive edge. With the appropriate online course platform, you can deliver a captivating educational experience in 2025 and beyond.
Our #1 Recommendation: Thinkific!
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