Are you looking for online learning platforms but confused about which one to choose between Skillshare and Udemy? Well, you’re not alone. Both platforms offer a vast range of courses on different topics, and it can be challenging to decide which one is better for you. In this article, we will compare Skillshare and Udemy based on various factors to help you make an informed decision.
Skillshare vs Udemy: Overview
Skillshare and Udemy are two of the most popular online learning platforms with millions of users worldwide. Skillshare has been around since 2010, while Udemy was founded in 2010. Both platforms provide an opportunity for learners to acquire new skills, learn about new topics, and improve their knowledge.
Skillshare focuses more on creative courses, such as design, photography, and writing, while Udemy offers a broad range of courses on various subjects, including technology, business, and personal development.
Course Quality
Both platforms have high-quality courses, but the type of courses offered differs. Skillshare offers courses that are project-based, which means that you learn by doing. The courses are shorter and to the point, with a focus on practical skills that you can apply immediately. On the other hand, Udemy courses are more lecture-based. The courses on Udemy are longer and more detailed, with a focus on theoretical knowledge.
Course Selection
Udemy boasts over 155,000 courses, while Skillshare has around 30,000 courses. Udemy offers a more extensive selection of courses, including popular courses on in-demand skills like data science, programming, and AI. Skillshare, however, offers more creative courses, such as art, music, and writing.
Course Instructors
Both platforms have experienced instructors, but Udemy has more emphasis on instructor qualifications. Udemy instructors are required to have a minimum of 5 years of experience in their field, while Skillshare doesn’t have any strict requirements. Skillshare allows anyone to create a course, which can be a disadvantage in terms of quality. However, Skillshare does vet courses to ensure they meet certain standards and requirements.
Course Pricing
Skillshare and Udemy have different pricing models. Skillshare offers a monthly subscription of $15 per month, while Udemy offers courses that range from free to hundreds of dollars, depending on the course. However, Udemy often has promotions and discounts on courses, making it more affordable.
Course Certificates
Udemy provides a certificate of completion for each course, while Skillshare doesn’t provide any certificates. However, Skillshare offers a project-based approach, which can help you build your portfolio. The lack of certificates of completion on Skillshare has been a point of criticism for the platform, as learners may not have a tangible way of showcasing their achievements.
Course Navigation
Udemy has a more organized and user-friendly interface, making it easier to navigate through courses. Skillshare has a simple interface, but it lacks some features that Udemy offers, such as the ability to speed up or slow down the video. Udemy also has a more advanced search function, allowing learners to filter courses by ratings, topic, and level.
Mobile App
Both Skillshare and Udemy have mobile apps, which allow you to learn on the go. However, Udemy’s mobile app has more features, including the ability to download courses for offline viewing. Skillshare’s mobile app lacks some features, such as the ability to download courses, which can be a disadvantage for learners who prefer to learn offline.
Customer Support
Udemy offers 24/7 customer support, while Skillshare has limited customer support. Udemy also has a more extensive knowledge base, which can help you solve any issues you encounter while using the platform. Skillshare has a help centre, but learners may have to wait for some time to receive a response to their queries.
Skillshare vs Udemy: Pros and Cons
Here are some pros and cons of each platform to help you decide:
Skillshare Pros:
- Affordable monthly subscription
- Offers project-based courses
- Wide range of creative courses
Skillshare Cons:
- Limited course selection
- No certificates of completion
- The quality of courses can sometimes be inconsistent
Udemy Pros:
- Wide range of courses
- Affordable pricing
- Certificates of completion
- High-quality courses
Udemy Cons:
- Lecture-based courses may not be suitable for everyone
- The quality of courses can sometimes be inconsistent
- No project-based approach
Skillshare vs Udemy: Which One Should You Choose?
Now that we’ve compared the two platforms based on various factors, it’s time to decide which one is better for you. Here are some things to consider before making a decision:
1. Your Learning Goals
The first thing to consider is your learning goals. Are you looking to learn a specific skill or subject? If so, Udemy’s extensive selection of courses may be the better option. However, if you’re looking to improve your creative skills, Skillshare may be the better option.
2. Course Format
The format of the courses is another thing to consider. Do you prefer lecture-based courses or project-based courses? If you prefer a more traditional approach, Udemy may be the better option. However, if you prefer to learn by doing, Skillshare may be the better option.
3. Course Quality
Course quality is another important factor to consider. While both platforms have high-quality courses, the quality of courses can sometimes be inconsistent. It’s important to read reviews and ratings before enrolling in a course to ensure that it’s worth your time and money.
4. Course Pricing
Course pricing is another thing to consider. While both platforms offer affordable pricing, Udemy may be the better option if you’re looking for free courses or courses that are heavily discounted. However, if you prefer a monthly subscription model, Skillshare may be the better option.
5. Course Certificates
If you’re looking for a tangible way to showcase your achievements, Udemy may be the better option as they provide certificates of completion. However, if you’re looking to build your portfolio, Skillshare’s project-based approach may be the better option.
Overall, the choice between Skillshare and Udemy ultimately depends on your learning goals and preferences. It’s important to take the time to consider each platform’s strengths and weaknesses before making a decision.
FAQs
1. Can I get a refund if I don’t like the course?
Yes, both Skillshare and Udemy offer refunds if you’re not satisfied with the course. However, the refund policy may vary depending on the course and the platform.
2. Do I need any prior knowledge to take courses on these platforms?
No, both platforms offer courses for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced.
3. Can I access the courses on my mobile device?
Yes, both platforms have mobile apps that allow you to access courses on your mobile device.
4. Can I download the courses for offline viewing?
Yes, Udemy allows you to download courses for offline viewing on their mobile app. Skillshare, however, doesn’t offer this feature.
5. Are the courses updated regularly?
Yes, both platforms update their courses regularly to ensure that they’re up-to-date and relevant.
Overall, both Skillshare and Udemy are great online learning platforms that offer a lot of value to learners. However, the choice ultimately depends on your learning goals and preferences. Whether you choose Skillshare or Udemy, make sure to choose courses that align with your goals and interests, and don’t be afraid to take advantage of the refund policy if a course doesn’t meet your expectations.
Final Thoughts
Both Skillshare and Udemy are great online learning platforms that offer a lot of value to learners. They provide an opportunity for learners to acquire new skills, learn about new topics, and improve their knowledge. However, the choice ultimately depends on your learning goals and preferences. Whether you choose Skillshare or Udemy, make sure to choose courses that align with your goals and interests, and don’t be afraid to take advantage of the refund policy if a course doesn’t meet your expectations.