Thinkific vs. LearnDash: Which platform is right for you?

A course builder should be easy to use and allow you to create an engaging learning experience for students — something that both Thinkific and LearnDash achieve. However, there are some core differences between the two. 

While LearnDash operates as a learning management system (LMS) plugin for WordPress, Thinkific operates as a single, integrated platform. LearnDash relies on plug-ins and add-ons, and involves merging with your existing website — something that might fragment the user experience from purchasing to learning. Because of this, LearnDash could require the help of a developer during the setup phase. 

In contrast, Thinkific offers an intuitive course builder designed for those who have their students’ learning experiences in mind. You’re able to make your audience’s experience better with additional tools such as Live Lessons with Zoom, assignments, and a built-in presentation builder. Thinkific also supports the building of communities to complement your course, or to sell access to on their own. By linking your course to your community, you’re able to create a holistic learning experience all on one platform that goes beyond simple course creation.

Preparing course (and other educational) materials is made even simpler with Thinkific’s advanced AI technology. For example, creators can build course outlines and quizzes in a few clicks. Thinkific’s AI Course Outline Generator instantly creates a detailed course outline tailored to your audience’s needs and Thinkific’s AI Quiz Generator creates quizzes that keep learners engaged, test comprehension, and identify knowledge gaps.

A great learning experience will help students learn more effectively and make them want to stick around longer and share it with others — ultimately, driving retention and helping you grow your business.

LearnDash provides a good learning experience for students by pulling from traditional educational sources. While high-quality, these might differ from the expectations of today’s users, who are more familiar and comfortable with online, micro, and mobile learning experiences. 

When it comes to the learning experience, Thinkific offers robust functionality that translates to powerful learning experiences for students. As a creator educator, you can provide your students with quizzes, exams, surveys, and the option to participate in your learning community. Your students are also given the option to leave reviews that can be shared publicly — something that helps more potential students find and sign up for your course. 

Thinkific also does more than just courses — they offer helpful digital learning experiences like digital downloads and coaching and webinars. With digital downloads, students can find value in quickly downloadable guides, templates, exclusive resources, and more. With coaching and webinars, students can schedule coaching sessions and other forms of dedicated one-on-one time, attend workshops, and register for webinars. 

A mobile app is a great way for your audience to engage with your learning content from anywhere, at any time. 

LearnDash’s mobile app offering looks a little different than other brands. The LMS plugin doesn’t have its own mobile app but instead has partnered with BuddyBoss to offer the BuddyBoss LearnDash App.

The BuddyBoss LearnDash App gives LearnDash users the opportunity to create their own branded native app. Through the BuddyBoss LearnDash App, users can launch their own app for online courses, memberships, and online communities.

The app is fully customizable, allowing you to add features like push notifications or adjust configuration and appearance. There are three BuddyBoss plans available: Standard, Done For You, and Developer. 

Different from LearnDash’s third-party app option, Thinkific’s Branded Mobile is more of a custom, made-to-order app for businesses. Branded Mobile is a white-labeled app that puts your brand front and center with your own App Store listing and logo. Great for those who aren’t confident in their coding skills, you’ll get a fully customized and branded mobile app through members of the Thinkific team who will build, publish, and maintain your app so you can focus on your business. Thinkific Mobile (included free with Start plans and above) is a mobile-friendly way for students to access courses or communities under a universal Thinkific-branded app.

Choose a course platform that you can depend on. Getting help should be easy and your data should be secure. Let’s see how LearnDash and Thinkific compare when it comes to support.

LearnDash offers asynchronous customer support, which means it is only available by filling out an online form. They do not currently offer live chat or phone support.

Thinkific offers a network of experts, a growing community of peers, and a responsive support team. As you grow, and your learning platform becomes mission-critical, Thinkific offers more security and support options to ensure your success.