LearnDash vs MasterStudy LMS
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
WordPress LMS plugin and theme.
The verdict
Both LearnDash and MasterStudy LMS are credible course platforms tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Choose LearnDash if you want a higher overall rating (4.4/5). WordPress LMS plugin.
Choose MasterStudy LMS if you'd rather have a lower starting price (free – $99.90/yr) and a free plan to start on. WordPress LMS plugin and theme.
LearnDash vs MasterStudy LMS: side by side
| Dimension | LearnDash | MasterStudy LMS |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | From $199/yr | Free – $99.90/yrWinner |
| Free plan | No | YesWinner |
| Pricing model | Subscription | Freemium |
| Best for | Smb, Creators, Developers | Creators, Smb |
| Platforms | Web, Self Hosted | Web, Self Hosted |
| Rating | 4.4/5Winner | 4.2/5 |
LearnDash key facts
- Vendor
- LearnDash
- Pricing
- Subscription — From $199/yr
- Free tier
- No
- Platforms
- Web, Self Hosted
- Best for
- Smb, Creators, Developers
- Editor rating
- 4.4 / 5
- Founded
- 2013
- Headquarters
- Frisco, Texas
MasterStudy LMS key facts
- Vendor
- StylemixThemes
- Pricing
- Freemium — Free – $99.90/yr
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web, Self Hosted
- Best for
- Creators, Smb
- Editor rating
- 4.2 / 5
- Founded
- 2016
- Headquarters
- Dover, Delaware
Frequently asked questions
Is LearnDash better than MasterStudy LMS?
Neither is universally better — LearnDash edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is LearnDash or MasterStudy LMS cheaper?
MasterStudy LMS is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free – $99.90/yr. LearnDash starts at from $199/yr; MasterStudy LMS starts at free – $99.90/yr.
Can LearnDash replace MasterStudy LMS?
Yes for most teams — both are course platforms tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.