If you want to create and sell online courses, you need a reliable learning management system (LMS) that meets your needs. But with so many LMS platforms out there, how do you choose the best one for you?
LearnDash, LifterLMS and Tutor LMS are three of the most popular LMS platforms on the market. They all offer a range of features for course creation and management, as well as integrations with other tools and services.
But they also have some differences that might make one more suitable for your situation than the other. Selecting a Learning Management System (LMS) is a crucial decision, as it will impact how you deliver and manage your online courses.
In this article, I’ll help you compare LearnDash, LifterLMS and TutorLMS covering over 24 different crtieria which includes their features, pricing, ease of use, and pros and cons. Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or a large organization, this article will help you make an informed decision about which LMS is right for you.
Quick Summary of Difference between LearnDash vs LifterLMS vs Tutor LMS
| Criteria | LearnDash | LifterLMS | Tutor LMS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
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| 2 | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 3 |
8 Question Types.
|
12 Question Types.
|
10 Question Types.
|
|
| 4 | WooCommerce & Easy Digital Downloads (EDD) | WooCommerce | WooCommerce & Easy Digital Downloads (EDD) | |
| 5 | Yes | Yes | No | |
| 6 | Offers complete support for Native Videos, Youtube and Vimeo formats | Supports playing videos from Youtube, Vimeo, Wista, Vidalytics, and VdoCipher but not from Native Videos | Offers complete support for Native, Youtube and Vimeo formats | |
| 7 | Yes | Yes. But requires premium ‘Assignments’ addon. | Yes. But requires premium ‘Assignments’ addon. | |
| 8 | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 9 | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 10 | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 11 | Yes. But requires a premium addon. | Yes | Yes. But available with Pro Version. | |
| 12 | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 13 | Yes | Yes | Yes. But requires 'Prerequisites' addon. | |
| 14 | Yes. Can be done after completion of course and quiz. | Yes. Can be done after completion of course and quiz. | Yes. Can be issued on only on completion of course. | |
| 15 | Yes | Yes. But Drag & Drop Certificate builder is offered in Paid version. | Yes. But available in paid version of the plugin. | |
| 16 | Yes | Yes | Yes. But requires ‘Prerequisites’ Addon. | |
| 17 | Requires premium addon - ‘Pro Panel’ to offer basic reporting. | Offers basic student reporting. | Offers basic student reporting and also allows to download quiz reports. | |
| 18 | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| 19 | Yes. But requires a ‘Groups plus’ premium add-on | Yes | No | |
| 20 | Offers inbuilt gamification feature called 'LearnDash Achievements' and also provides free integrations for GamiPress & BadgeOS. | Offers integration add-ons for GamiPress & BadgeOS. | Offers integration add-ons for GamiPress & BadgeOS. | |
| 21 | Has inbuilt membership features and also offers integrations to Paid Memberships Pro & Restrict Content Pro. | Has inbuilt membership features that allows you to limit the access to your courses and content. | Has inbuilt membership features and also offers integrations to Paid Memberships Pro & Restrict Content Pro in Paid version of the plugin. | |
| 22 | Has an inbuilt subscription feature and can also work with WooCommece Subscriptions. | Available with Paypal, Stripe, and Authorize addons that are available in all paid plans. | Requires premium addon ‘WooCommerce Subscriptions’. | |
| 23 | Paypal & Stripe | Paypal & Stripe | Paypal | |
| 24 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Pricing
An important factor for someone who is building their first LMS is the pricing and a free version of the plugin helps you how it works and gives you a glimpse of what it offers. However, if you are serious about your LMS and are willing to go for a better-paid version for better functionality, then all 3 plugins offer different functionality depending on what you opt for.
LearnDash:
LearnDash doesn’t offer a free version of the plugin. However, LearnDash has clear and single pricing for the base plugin priced at $199 / year per site. They don’t have any additional pricing tiers.
LifterLMS:
LifterLMS offers a scaled-down limited feature free version of the plugin that helps you test and evaluate it for yourself. LifterLMS Paid version pricing starts from as low as $149 / year to as high as $1200 / Yr. The functionality offered varies according to their pricing plan. Their most popular plan is priced at $360 / Yr.
Tutor LMS:
Tutor LMS too offers a limited-features free version of the plugin. It’s paid version pricing starts from $199 / Yr to $799 / Yr depending on the functionality offered with each plan. Their most popular plan is priced at $399 / Yr.
There are no clear winners here because everyone’s needs and requirements are different and based on the availability and pricing of those features a decision will be made.
Unlimited Courses, Lessons, and Students
Whenever we are looking at cloud-based LMS, we usually come across a critical detail that is a deal breaker for most of us – No. of courses, lessons, and students (seats) supported by the LMS.
There is usually a limit for each of these at a given pricing level. This is where all of these WordPress-based LMS’ have a big edge over cloud-based LMS.
All of the 3 – LearnDash, Lifter, and Tutor support unlimited courses, lessons, and students.
Supported Quiz Question Types
All Learning Management Systems usually allow you to set up a quiz which allows you to assess a student based on the course material they have studied so far. Depending on your training material, you might need to ask different types of questions to assess a student. Each LMS supports different types of questions in quizzes. Let’s go through what each of these LMS have to offer –
LearnDash
It supports 8 question types which include – Single Choice, Multiple Choice, Free Choice, Sorting Choice, Matrix Sorting Choice, Fill in blank, Assessment (Survey), Essay (Open Answer)
LifterLMS –
It supports 12 question types. However, the availability of these question types depends on whether you are using just the base LMS plugin or a paid add-on.
Base Plugin supports – Single Choice, Multiple Choice, Image Multiple Choice, and True/False ( These are also available in the free version of the plugin)
Paid Addon supports – Fill in the blank, Reorder Items, Reorder Pictures, Short Answer, Long Answer, Upload, Code, Scale. This paid addon comes at an additional cost $240 / Yr or with the Lifter LMs Infinity plan which is priced at $1200 / Yr.
Tutor LMS
It supports 10 question types. However, the availability of these question types depends on whether you are using just the Free or the Pro version of the plugin.
The free version supports – which includes – Single Choice, Multiple Choice, Fill in the Blanks, Open Ended / Essay and True / False.
Pro version supports – includes – Short Answer, Matching, Image Matching, Image Answering and Ordering.
E-commerce Integration
When it comes to selling courses on WordPress, the two most popular e-commerce plugins that come to mind are – WooCommerce and Easy Digital Downloads (EDD)
LearnDash:
LearnDash provides support and integrations for both – WooCommerce & EasyDigital Downloads (EDD)
LifterLMS:
Supports only WooCommerce
Tutor LMS:
Tutor LMS provides support and integrations for both — WooCommerce & EasyDigitalDownloads (EDD)
Tin Can API Compilant / xAPI Compilant
Another deal breaker aspect for many e-learning companies is whether their chosen LMS is Tin Can API / xAPI compliant.
Tin Can API / xAPI is a specification for learning technology that allows learning activities to get tracked and reported from any device anywhere. To put it simply, it allows users to track learning activities and record them in a Learning Record Store(LRS) using a simple syntax :
Noun-Verb-Object. ‘I – Did – This’
So, when your LMS is Tin Can API Compliant, it works flawlessly with Tin Can Published courses which allows you to migrate easily from a restrictive LMS like Articulate Story Line as long as you have LRS (Learning Record Store) like Grassblade in place. All the learning tracking data is stored in this LRS.
LearnDash LMS is TinCan API / xAPI Compilant.
LifterLMS is also TinCan Api / xAPI Compilant.
Tutor LMS is unfortunately not Tin Can API compliant.
Video Support
Video Hosting is a feature that allows instructors to upload and store their video content on the website. Video Hosting helps instructors to deliver their video content smoothly and securely.
LearnDash:
Offers Native video support, Youtube and Vimeo
LifterLMS:
Has no Native Video Support. But supports YouTube, Vimeo, Wisita, Vidalytics, VdoCipher
Tutor LMS:
Offers Native, Youtube & Vimeo.
Assignments
Assignments are tasks or activities that learners need to complete as part of their course. They can be graded or ungraded, and can have different formats such as quizzes, essays, projects, etc. Assignments help learners to demonstrate their understanding and skills, and provide feedback from instructors or peers.
LearnDash:
LearnDash offers a robust assignments feature that allows instructors to create and manage assignments for their learners. Instructors can create various types of assignments, to assess learners’ understanding and progress.
LearnDash instructors can add assignments to lessons that let students upload files as part of their submission of the assignment. Assignments can be graded and provide feedback to learners, facilitating a comprehensive learning experience.
With LearnDash, instructors have flexibility in designing and customizing assignments to align with their course objectives.
LifterLMS:
You will need to purchase a premium “assignment” add-on, in order to use the wide-ranging assignment features that LifterLMS offers for assessing and evaluating learners’ progress.
With this add-on instructors can create assignments within lessons or modules, allowing learners to submit their work directly within the LifterLMS platform.
Assignments can include various formats, such as essays, or file uploads, and instructors can grade and provide feedback on learners’ submissions.
Tutor LMS:
Tutor LMS offers a similar approach to Lifter LMS with its paid plans and add-ons. Their basic (free) package does not have an assignment feature. To access this feature, you must purchase the individual or above plans.
Some of the paid features may include advanced assignment types, grading rubrics, and enhanced assignment management options. Instructors can design different types of assignments, including essays, or file uploads, to assess learners’ comprehension.
Learners can submit their assignments directly through the Tutor LMS platform, and instructors can evaluate and provide feedback on their submissions. Tutor LMS also provides features like setting deadlines and tracking learners’ progress, allowing instructors to monitor assignment completion effectively.
Overall, all three learning management systems (LearnDash, LifterLMS, and Tutor LMS) offer robust assignment features, allowing instructors to create, manage, and evaluate learners’ work effectively. So it’s important to consider your specific needs and requirements when choosing the right LMS for your organization.
Course Content Protection
Course Content Protection is a feature that prevents unauthorized access or distribution of the course materials. It helps prevent content copying, concurrent logins, or other methods to ensure that only enrolled learners can view and use the content. Course Content Protection helps to protect the intellectual property and quality of the course.
LearnDash:
To secure your course content, you can add the free “LearnDash Integrity” plugin, which offers a number of content security techniques.
LearnDash Integrity is a brand-new innovation that strengthens your course’s security with tools that block concurrent logins, hotlinking, and content copying. It offers robust user access controls, allowing you to restrict access to courses based on user roles, membership levels, or specific criteria.
With its robust features, seamless user experience, and continuous updates, LearnDash ensures the integrity of e-learning content, assessments, and user data, providing a trustworthy platform for effective online education.
LifterLMS:
LifterLMS offers content protection features like ‘prevent text copy and image download’ and ‘prevent concurrent logins’ to safeguard your course content. It allows you to restrict course access based on user roles, memberships, or enrollment status.
Tutor LMS:
Tutor LMS offers content protection measures to secure your course materials even in their basic (free) plan. It allows you to restrict course access based on user roles, enrollments, or memberships.
While all three LMS platforms offer content protection features, the specific implementation and customization options may vary.
Drip & Scheduled Course Content
Drip and scheduled course content refer to the ability to release course materials to learners gradually over a specific time period. This feature helps you control the pace at which learners access the course content, ensuring a structured learning experience.
LearnDash:
LearnDash offers robust drip-feed functionality to schedule the release of course content. You can set specific time intervals or dates to unlock lessons, topics, quizzes, or other course materials.
This feature enables you to deliver content in a systematic manner, allowing learners to progress through the course at a predefined pace.
LifterLMS:
LifterLMS provides content-dripping capabilities to release course content gradually. You can set the timing for unlocking lessons, modules, or course sections based on specific criteria. This feature ensures that learners access the content in a structured manner, keeping them engaged and focused on each learning module.
Tutor LMS:
Drip-feeding of content is also a feature of the Tutor LMS, however, it is only available on the subscription plans, not the free one.
Ultimately, the “better” choice depends on your specific requirements, user interface preferences, and the level of control you need over content delivery.
Drag & Drop Course Builder
The Drag & Drop Course Builder is a powerful feature that allows you to easily create and customize courses using a visual interface.
LearnDash:
LearnDash comes with a built-in Course Builder that is enabled by default, allowing you to easily create and customize course structures without the need for additional plugins or configurations.
You can easily drag and drop lessons, topics, quizzes, and assignments to build your course structure. This intuitive builder enables you to arrange and rearrange course elements with ease.
LifterLMS:
LifterLMS also provides a Drag & Drop Course Builder that simplifies the process of course creation.
With this visual interface, you can easily arrange and organize course modules, lessons, and quizzes by dragging and dropping them into the desired order. The builder offers flexibility and ease of use.
Tutor LMS:
Tutor LMS offers a user-friendly Drag & Drop Course Builder as a premium feature, not available in their free plan. This intuitive builder allows you to easily design and customize course structures by dragging and dropping modules, lessons, quizzes, and assignments.
All three platforms offer Drag & Drop Course Builders to streamline the course creation process and provide a visual and user-friendly experience. It’s recommended to explore the specific functionalities, customization options, and user interfaces of each builder to determine which one best suits your needs and aligns with your preferred workflow.
Front-End Course Builder
Front-end Course Builder is a feature that allows instructors to create and edit their course content directly on the website, without the need of backend tools or coding. It can include drag-and-drop elements, templates, widgets, or other tools to make the course creation process easy and intuitive. Front-end Course Builder helps instructors to design and update their courses quickly and conveniently.
LearnDash:
LearnDash does not have a native Front-End Course Builder. However, it offers an intuitive backend Course Builder that allows instructors to create and customize courses easily.
For a Front-End Course Builder experience in LearnDash, you can consider using a third-party add-on, which provides a Front-End Course Builder as an add-on feature.
LifterLMS:
Lifter provides a native Front-End Course Builder as part of its core features. With the Front-End Course Builder, instructors can create and modify courses directly from the front end of the website.
This user-friendly interface simplifies the course creation process and offers a seamless experience for instructors. The Front-End Course Builder is available within Lifter without requiring any additional add-ons.
Tutor LMS:
The Front-End Course Builder in Tutor is available as part of their premium plans and requires upgrading to access this functionality. It’s important to note that Lifter includes the Front-End Course Builder in its core features.
Tutor LMS requires a premium plan upgrade to access this feature. LearnDash, on the other hand, does not have a native Front-End Course Builder but offers the option to use third-party add-ons for a similar experience.
Course Cloning
Course Cloning refers to the ability to duplicate an existing course to create a new course with similar settings and content.
LearnDash:
LearnDash offers built-in Course Cloning functionality. Instructors can easily clone an existing course within the LearnDash admin interface. With just one click of a button, the cloning process duplicates all course settings, lessons, topics, quizzes, and assignments, allowing instructors to create new courses quickly based on an existing template.
LifterLMS:
Lifter does not require any additional plugins for Course Cloning. Lifter offers built-in Course Cloning functionality, allowing instructors to duplicate existing courses with ease. The cloning process includes replicating all course settings, lessons, quizzes, and other course elements, making it convenient for instructors to create new courses based on existing templates.
Tutor LMS:
Instructors using Tutor can easily clone existing courses within the platform without the need for additional plugins. The Course Cloning feature allows instructors to duplicate courses along with their settings, lessons, quizzes, and other course components, making it convenient to create new courses based on existing templates.
It’s important to note that all three platforms have in-build course cloning features. More or else they offer the same functionality.
Learning Paths
Learning Paths, also known as Course Tracks, Learning Tracks or Learning Programs, refer to a structured sequence of courses or modules designed to help learners achieve specific learning objectives or master a particular skill set.
LearnDash:
LearnDash provides robust Learning Path functionality, allowing you to create structured learning journeys for your learners. With LearnDash, you can define dependencies between courses, ensuring that learners progress through the content in a logical order. LearnDash’s focus on course progression and hierarchy makes it well-suited for building comprehensive Learning Paths.
LifterLMS:
Lifter also offers Learning Path capabilities to guide learners through a predefined curriculum. In Lifter, you can define the required order of course completion. Learners must complete the designated courses before gaining access to subsequent content, ensuring a structured learning experience.
Tutor LMS:
Tutor supports the creation of Learning Paths, allowing you to design logical progressions of courses for your learners. But you will need to set prerequisites add-ons for courses, specifying the required courses that learners must complete before accessing advanced content. With these prerequisite add ons Tutor enables you to create a sequential and progressive learning experience.
While all three LMS platforms offer Learning Path functionality, the specific implementation and customization options may vary. Consider evaluating the documentation and support resources provided by each LMS to understand their Learning Path features, including prerequisites, course dependencies, and the overall flexibility of designing comprehensive learning journeys.
Certificate Generation
Certificate Generation refers to the ability of a learning management system (LMS) to automatically create and issue certificates to learners upon the completion of a course or certain learning milestones.
LearnDash:
LearnDash offers built-in Certificate Generation functionality. Instructors can design custom certificate templates using a drag-and-drop builder or HTML/CSS. Certificates can be personalized with learner details and course-specific information. LearnDash allows for automatic certificate generation and delivery to learners upon course completion of specified criteria. Here, certificates for both courses and quizzes can be generated.
LifterLMS:
Lifter provides Certificate Generation features through its Certificate add-on. Instructors can design professional-looking certificates using customizable templates. Certificates can be generated automatically and personalized with learner information. Lifter allows for certificate issuance upon both course and quiz completion.
Tutor LMS:
Tutor includes built-in Certificate Generation functionality. Instructors can create certificate templates using customizable designs and add dynamic elements like learner names, course names, and completion dates. Certificates can be automatically generated and awarded to learners upon only course completion.
All three LMS platforms offer Certificate Generation capabilities, allowing instructors to create custom certificates and automatically issue them to learners. The specific design options, customization flexibility, and automation features may vary, so it’s advisable to explore the certificate generation capabilities provided by each platform to ensure they align with your requirements.
Certificate Builder
Certificate Builder is a feature that allows instructors to create and customize certificates for their learners who complete the course. It can include different layouts, fonts, colors, logos, or other elements to make the certificates attractive and professional. Certificate Builder helps instructors to reward and recognize their learners’ achievements.
LearnDash:
LearnDash offers Certificate Builder functionality, but it requires the installation of a separate add-on called “Gutenberg Builder.” This is available for free and can be integrated with LearnDash. It provides a range of customization options, allowing you to design personalized and professional-looking certificates for your learners.
LifterLMS:
Lifter also includes Certificate Builder features; however, the Drag & Drop Certificate Builder is offered in the paid version of the Lifter platform. With the paid version and the appropriate add-ons, you can access advanced customization options and design certificates using a visual drag-and-drop interface.
Tutor LMS:
Similarly, Tutor offers Certificate Builder functionality, but it is available in the paid version only. With the premium version, you can utilize the Certificate Builder to create customized certificates for your learners. It provides flexibility in designing certificates with personalized elements and branding options.
In summary, LearnDash offers a free add-on for Certificate Builder, while Lifter and Tutor provide Certificate Builder capabilities in their paid versions. It’s important to consider the specific pricing plans and features of each LMS platform to determine which option aligns best with your requirements and budget.
Course Prerequisites
Course Prerequisites, also known as course dependencies, refer to the ability to set certain courses or learning modules as prerequisites that learners must complete before accessing or enrolling in advanced or related content.
LearnDash:
LearnDash offers built-in Course Prerequisite functionality. Instructors can easily set prerequisites for courses, lessons, or quizzes within the LearnDash platform. This feature allows learners to progress through a structured learning path by completing prerequisite courses or meeting specific criteria before gaining access to advanced content.
LifterLMS:
Lifter also provides Course Prerequisite features as part of its core functionality. Instructors can set prerequisites for courses, modules, or lessons, specifying the required completion of specific courses or learning elements before learners can access subsequent content. Learners must fulfil the prerequisites to unlock advanced materials.
Tutor LMS:
Tutor supports Course Prerequisites but requires the installation of prerequisite add-on. With prerequisites add-on, instructors can set prerequisites for courses, topics, or quizzes, ensuring that learners complete designated content before progressing to the next level. This add-on offers additional flexibility and control over course progression.
While LearnDash and Lifter include Course Prerequisite functionality within their core offerings, Tutor requires the prerequisite add-on for this feature. It’s important to consider the availability of these features and any additional add-ons or integrations required when choosing an LMS platform that best aligns with your specific course structure and prerequisites.
Reporting
Reporting in a learning management system (LMS) enables you to track and analyze learner progress, engagement, and performance.
LearnDash:
LearnDash provides basic reporting capabilities, but it requires the installation of a premium add-on called “Pro Panel.” The Pro Panel add-on offers enhanced reporting features, allowing you to track user progress, course activity, quiz performance, and more. With Pro Panel, you can generate detailed reports on learner performance and engagement.
LifterLMS:
Lifter offers basic student reporting as part of its core functionality. Instructors can access information on learner progress, course completion, quiz scores, and other relevant data. While it provides fundamental reporting features, it may have limitations compared to more advanced reporting options.
Tutor LMS:
Tutor also offers basic student reporting capabilities as part of its core features. Instructors can view learner progress, course completion status, and quiz scores. Additionally, Tutor allows instructors to download quiz reports, providing detailed insights into learner performance and quiz outcomes. But all of these features are available only in the paid version.
It’s essential to consider the level of reporting detail you require and assess whether the available reporting capabilities of each LMS align with your specific needs for tracking learner progress and performance.
Student Profile / Student Dashboard
Student Profile or Student Dashboard features provide learners with a personalized space where they can access their course progress, grades, achievements, and other relevant information.
LearnDash:
LearnDash offers a built-in Student Profile or Student Dashboard feature. Learners can access their personalized dashboard, which displays their enrolled courses, course progress, quiz results, earned certificates, and other relevant information. The dashboard provides learners with an overview of their learning journey and progress.
LifterLMS:
Lifter also includes a Student Profile or Student Dashboard feature. Learners can access their personal dashboard, which showcases their enrolled courses, completion status, quiz scores, and other relevant details. The dashboard provides learners with a centralized place to track their progress and manage their learning experience.
Tutor LMS:
Tutor offers a Student Profile or Student Dashboard feature as well. Learners can access their individual dashboard, which provides an overview of their enrolled courses, progress, achievements, quiz results, and other relevant information. The dashboard in Tutor allows learners to track their learning journey and stay updated on their course activities.
All three LMS platforms offer Student Profile or Student Dashboard features, providing learners with a dedicated space to view their course progress, grades, and other pertinent information. These features enhance the learner experience and enable learners to stay organized and engaged throughout their e-learning journey.
Bulk Course Enrolment
Bulk Course Enrolment is the ability to enroll multiple learners into a course simultaneously, saving time and effort.
LearnDash:
LearnDash offers Bulk Course Enrolment functionality, but it requires the installation of a premium add-on called “Groups Plus.” The Groups Plus add-on allows administrators to enrol multiple users into a course or group in a single action, simplifying the process of bulk enrolment.
LifterLMS:
LifterLMS provides built-in Bulk Course Enrolment capabilities. Administrators or instructors can use Lifter to enroll multiple users into a course simultaneously, streamlining the enrolment process for large groups of learners.
Tutor LMS:
Tutor does not have native Bulk Course Enrolment functionality. Administrators or instructors using Tutor LMS would need to manually enroll learners into courses one by one, as bulk enrolment is not directly supported.
It’s important to note that while LearnDash requires the “Groups Plus” premium add-on for Bulk Course Enrolment, Lifter includes this feature as part of its core functionality. Tutor, on the other hand, does not have native Bulk Course Enrolment capabilities. Consider your specific needs for bulk enrolment and evaluate the available options when choosing an LMS platform that aligns with your requirements.
Gamification
Gamification is the use of game-like elements and mechanics to enhance engagement and motivate learners in an e-learning environment.
LearnDash:
LearnDash has an inbuilt Gamification feature that allows instructors to incorporate gamified elements into their courses. It includes features such as points, achievements, certificates, and leaderboards. Additionally, LearnDash provides free add-ons for integrating with popular Gamification plugins like GamiPress and BadgeOS, expanding the gamification possibilities.
LifterLMS:
Lifter offers integrations with GamiPress and BadgeOS, two popular Gamification plugins for WordPress. These integrations enable instructors to implement gamified elements such as points, badges, certificates, and achievements into their courses. Lifter provides flexibility by allowing instructors to choose the Gamification plugin that best fits their needs.
Tutor LMS:
Tutor also supports integrations with GamiPress and BadgeOS, providing instructors with gamification options for their courses. By leveraging these integrations, instructors can incorporate features like points, badges, achievements, and certificates to enhance learner engagement and motivation within the platform.
All three LMS platforms offer Gamification capabilities either through their built-in features or through integrations with popular Gamification plugins. These features allow instructors to create a more interactive and rewarding learning experience for their learners.
Memberships
Memberships in a learning management system (LMS) allow you to create premium access to courses or learning content.
LearnDash:
LearnDash provides inbuilt Membership features, allowing you to create membership levels and grant access to specific courses or content based on membership subscriptions. LearnDash also offers free add-ons to integrate with popular membership plugins like Paid Memberships Pro and Restrict Content Pro, enabling further customization and flexibility in managing memberships.
LifterLMS:
Lifter offers Membership capabilities as part of its core functionality. Instructors can create membership levels, set access rules, and restrict course availability based on membership subscriptions. Lifter provides options to control membership access to courses and other learning content.
Tutor LMS:
Tutor includes inbuilt Membership features, allowing you to create membership plans and control access to courses based on membership subscriptions. Additionally, Tutor offers integrations with Paid Memberships Pro and Restrict Content Pro in its premium version, providing enhanced membership management options.
Consider the level of membership control and integration options available when choosing an LMS platform that aligns with your membership subscription needs.
Subscriptions
Subscriptions in a learning management system (LMS) enable you to offer recurring payment options for access to courses or learning content.
LearnDash:
LearnDash offers an inbuilt Subscription feature that allows you to create and manage subscription-based access to courses or learning content. With LearnDash, you can also set up recurring payment options and provide learners with ongoing access to the subscribed content.
LifterLMS:
Lifter offers subscription functionality through add-ons, such as PayPal, Stripe, and Authorize.Net. These add-ons are available in all paid plans of Lifter, allowing you to set up subscription-based payment gateways and offer recurring payment options to learners.
Tutor LMS:
Tutor requires the premium add-on called “WooCommerce Subscriptions” to enable subscription-based access. By integrating with WooCommerce Subscriptions, Tutor allows you to set up recurring payments and offer subscription plans for learners to access courses or learning content on a recurring basis.
Consider the specific subscription management options and integration requirements when choosing an LMS platform that aligns with your subscription-based business model.
Default Payment Gateways
Default payment gateways refer to the payment processors that are available as default options in the learning management system (LMS) platforms.
LearnDash:
LearnDash offers default integration with popular payment gateways such as PayPal and Stripe. These payment gateways are available as default options within LearnDash, allowing you to easily set up and accept payments from learners using these platforms.
LifterLMS:
Lifter also provides default integration with PayPal, Stripe or any Authorize.net as the main payment gateways.
Tutor LMS:
By default, Tutor integrates with PayPal as the primary payment gateway.
It’s important to note that while LearnDash and Lifter offer integration with both PayPal and Stripe by default, Tutor includes only PayPal as the default payment gateway. If you require additional payment gateways or different options, you may need to explore available integrations or consider add-ons or extensions specific to your preferred payment processors.
WordPress REST API
The WordPress REST API is a powerful feature that allows external applications to interact with a WordPress website by sending and receiving data using standard HTTP methods.
LearnDash:
LearnDash fully supports the WordPress REST API. This means that you can leverage the REST API to integrate LearnDash with external systems, create custom interactions, retrieve course data, enrol learners, and perform various other operations programmatically.
LifterLMS:
Lifter also embraces the WordPress REST API. With Lifter, you can utilize the REST API to interact with your LMS, retrieve course information, enroll students, retrieve learner progress, and integrate Lifter with other systems or applications.
Tutor LMS:
Tutor is built on WordPress and, therefore, supports the WordPress REST API. You can use the REST API to interact with Tutor LMS, access course details, retrieve learner information, enroll students, and integrate Tutor LMS with external applications or systems.
All three LMS platforms, LearnDash, Lifter, and Tutor, leverage the WordPress REST API to provide developers with the flexibility to integrate, extend, and interact with their LMS systems programmatically. The WordPress REST API opens up opportunities for custom integrations, automation, and enhancing the functionalities of these LMS platforms.
Wrapping Up
Ultimately, the choice between LearnDash, LifterLMS, and Tutor LMS will depend on your specific requirements, preferences, and goals. Consider factors like course complexity, engagement features, eCommerce needs, and the type of content you plan to deliver when making your decision. It’s also a good idea to explore demos, reviews, and user feedback to get a better understanding of which LMS aligns best with your needs.
